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 right now,” or “Only eight more hours between me and the weekend,” it’s still a promise. A promise to analyze, problem-solve, prioritize, advocate, listen, encourage, treat, empathize, support, facilitate, and educate. It’s the ultimate confidentiality agreement leading to the beginning of an immediately intimate relationship. Very few statements match its power.
What do those three little words currently mean to you?
Cindy
July 28, 2010 10:54 pmJoni, I would totally agree. There is a promise that comes with those three little words. It is the nurse who is trained to think through the steps of assessing, diagnosing, planning, implementing, and evaluating while they are providing care for the patient.
In a business meeting, someone thanked a couple of us for bringing so much critical thinking to the issue at hand. Immediately, the nurses in the room locked glances as if to say, “We are nurses; critical thinking is what we do”.
nursetopia
July 29, 2010 8:56 am*Love* it, Cindy! Most people, especially business people, really don’t understand the value nurses bring to the table. I blogged earlier about the RWJF report on nursing leadership in the board room. Your example is exactly why that report was published! Rock on.
jody schoger
August 26, 2012 1:13 pmWhen I was patient, I always so appreciated the professional who came in and said, ” Hi, my name is …………. and I’m your nurse, today.” That simple sentence, the wish to know the patient and help accelerate healing, can mean a world when you’re ill.
Anyone who doesn’t understand the value of nurses? Just ask patients. We’ll tell them.
Thanks, joni.
jms