Q: As a caregiver, do you have an opinion about doctor-assisted suicide? A: This isn’t something I have to deal with at all at work, but it is definitely something I have found myself wondering about. As caregivers, I’m sure we all have an opinion on the topic. I find myself conflicted on the issue: When talking with someone who is for it, I feel like they come up with good evidence and arguments. But then when I talk to someone...  Read More »

Q: Have you ever made a mistake or been involved in an accident at work? How did you tell your manager? A: Just the other day, I was involved in an incident that is going to cause me a couple months of headaches. Thankfully, no one was hurt (although maybe my feelings a little). It was a simple blood transfusion. I have given blood to hundreds of patients before and this time was no different. It was me and another nurse (you need two nurses...  Read More »

Q: What do you typically eat before a shift begins to make sure you have energy to last for 12 hours? Are you able to take snack breaks? If so, what do you usually eat? A: Twelve hours—from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.—is a really long day and it’s hard to have enough energy throughout, so I just do my best to eat things that won’t make me crash. I try my best to eat before work—like a bowl of cereal at home or a protein bar in the...  Read More »

Q: What went through your mind the first time you had to call a physician at home regarding a patient? A: It can be pretty intimidating to approach doctors on the floor or on the phone. But we have to place calls out to them pretty much all day. Patients have multiple doctors collaborating on their care so when we need to address an issue, we have to be sure to contact the right doctor. Talking to doctors isn’t as bad as you think...  Read More »

As a nurse just entering the workforce, she provided insight on the fears, anxieties, and successes of her transition. Now, with a little experience under her nursing belt, our contributor Chelsea is starting a new column where she’ll be providing weekly insight to help new nurses get a glimpse into their futures and to help experienced RNs and managers learn about their newest generation of colleagues. Q: It seems like a lot of new...  Read More »