“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb I want to say nurses are great collaborators; in some instances we are. It’s no secret, though, we have a problem with... Read More
I’m reading Florence Nightingale’s Notes on Nursing for the very first time. Ugh. I’m not going to wax nostalgic at the moment. The thin paperback is not an easy read. And I read a lot. I’m half-way through the book,... Read More
A family of five. Seven years at sea. A global expedition only a handful of people can understand. The Washington Post reported yesterday on the real-life magnificent story of the Crafton family. Kathleen Crafton, an ICU nurse, and her husband recently returned... Read More
Different: Escaping the Competitive Herd by Youngme Moon is a book about “succeeding in a world where conformity reigns but exceptions rule.” I must admit it was sometimes difficult to read. I prefer more conversational styles of writing; but the... Read More
Near misses are often referred to as “close-calls” or “good catches.” They’re potentially harmful events that never reach the patient. Nurses catch them every day, often because the nurse is the last link to the patient. Conversely, when nurses do... Read More
It’s a phrase said every day among millions of strangers. “I’m your nurse.” Seems simple enough, but those words hold power. Enveloped in three syllables is a promise. Even when it means “I’m the only one who can take this assignment... Read More
Make no mistake. Business in nursing is big time. It doesn’t matter the setting, either. Primary care, nursing education, hospice, ER – business. It’s a true dichotomy between selfishness and selflessness. Don’t get me wrong. Profits keep the doors open and... Read More
Nurses are present in every community, in virtually every setting. We’re everywhere. Naturally, nurses are some of the most altruistic people on the planet. You have to admit it takes a certain personality (and dare I say it – calling... Read More
Okay, so “nurse” really isn’t a color, but if it was, I imagine it would be an iridescent blue-purple-ish hue with flecks of green and yellow swirls. Last night during RN Chat, @NurseEducator ended the conversation with a final thought... Read More
I must confess. Yesterday I gave blood. For the very first time. As a nurse – an oncology nurse – it’s embarrassing to admit I’ve walked past gazillions of blood drives without donating. I donated at the Boots vs. Badges... Read More