Tammy’s Story: The Rewards of Being a Nurse
On my 40th birthday I began to examine my life; where I had been, where I was going, and I craved fulfillment. So I enrolled in college and my journey as a Registered Nurse began. For me, it is the human component of caregiving that is most rewarding, whether it’s holding the hand of a dying patient without family, or providing support to a family in their time of need, while also educating them of the unknown to ease their fears.
It’s also letting people vent to you without taking it personally, knowing none of us are exempt from illness and the aging process.
It’s always putting yourself in another’s shoes, as well as treating others as you would like to be treated.
It’s being flexible as situations often change instantly and drastically, while also knowing your own limitations.
It’s always holding your head high, even when facing adversity.
It’s holding up two outfits to the dementia patient and dressing them in the first one touched, so they may still feel the joy of independence.
It’s realizing that every human has something to offer, and letting others know they are not alone.
Caregiving is often long hours with few breaks yet, when I lay down at night I know I have given the most of myself to others; and I sleep well…
That is what makes caregiving rewarding.
Special thanks to Tammy S. for sharing what inspires her – and Happy National Nurses Week from all of us at Shield HealthCare.
You may also be interested in:
- Ten Tips for Communicating with a Person with Dementia
- 8 Ways Home Healths Can Reduce Hospital Readmissions
- 4 Popular Caregiver Apps
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