I Wanna-Be A ‘Lifer’!
Posted by Sean on October 10, 2009
Experienced nurses are an example of how to avoid burn out as they have found ways to cope with and love the profession for the long haul. And yes, I believe that time makes a good nurse even better! There of course is always an exception to the rule, but for the most part I am in awe of the nurses I am working with and am enjoying watching them in action. As always, I am realizing I have a lot to learn—much of which will take a lot of time. One day I hope to be a “lifer” who is an example of the excellence our profession has to offer.
This is an excerpt from a blog post over at Scrubs (Yes, the other avenue for which I blog). Prisca is a new nurse and she has a great insight as to what a ‘seasoned’ or ‘lifer’ nurse has and what traits we nurses should all strive to possess.
Here are just a couple of those traits:
- Lifers are calmer in emergencies. Whereas I tend to still freeze up a bit during true emergencies, the experienced nurse moves with a fluidity and assuridity that is remarkable. They don’t seem to question their actions and I can see how refined their critical thinking has become.
- Communication is more effective. These nurses say what they mean, concisely, clearly and accurately. When they are questioned—by docs, other nurses or patients, they answer without hesitation and seem so sure of themselves.
Please head on over(follow the link below) and read the rest. It’s worth your time. Way to go Prisca!
Working with “Lifers” | Scrubs – The Nurse’s Guide to Good Living
101 Blog Posts Every New Nurse Should Read Nurse Practitioner Schools said
[...] 97. “I Wanna-Be A ‘Lifer’!” at My Strong Medicine [...]
Sean Dent said
It truly is worth the read. Keep your chin up dear!
agmcgaha said
This is really interesting. As an “almost” new grad
I am entirely aware that the fields that interest me the most (like pediatric oncology) could easily send me straight to burnout or what they call “compassion fatigue.” I want to be a life nurse though so I'm heading straight over to read the article. Great post – you always find neat things to share! 
bethenextstep said
It truly is worth the read. Keep your chin up dear!
agmcgaha said
This is really interesting. As an “almost” new grad
I am entirely aware that the fields that interest me the most (like pediatric oncology) could easily send me straight to burnout or what they call “compassion fatigue.” I want to be a life nurse though so I'm heading straight over to read the article. Great post – you always find neat things to share! 
bethenextstep said
You are very welcome. You deserved it.
prisca said
wow, thanks sean. you just made my day!
bethenextstep said
Well the best of luck to her.
Paige Moore said
Communication is more effective. These nurses say what they mean, concisely, clearly and accurately. When they are questioned—by docs, other nurses or patients, they answer without hesitation and seem so sure of themselves. Hope this part of your article can read by my cousin, so she knew the traits and character of being nurse.
bthenextstep said
New Blog Post – I Wanna-Be A Lifer (http://ping.fm/IxbSp)
This comment was originally posted on Twitter
bthenextstep said
New Blog Post I Wanna-Be A ‘Lifer’!: Experienced nurses are an example of how to avoid burn out as.. http://bit.ly/10ry1z
This comment was originally posted on Twitter