6 minute read
ASK NURSE BLAKE
ASK NURSE BLAKE
DREAM DINNER GUESTS
First of all, I love you. You make this 1987 RN grad chuckle every time. Also, digging the magazine. Now, my question. There are some renowned professional nursing leaders. I am in critical care, so for CC, we think of Suzi Burns, Tom Ahrens, Ruth Kleinpell. Then there is Bonny Castillo from National Nurses United or Lauren Underwood, Congress person from Illinois. Have any of the nurse leaders reached out? If so, can you share their feedback? What would Clara Barton and Florence Nightingale say about your work? If you could have dinner with five other nurses, dead or alive, who would that be and why? See you in Chicago, NB! — Jacquie S.
Hey Jacquie! First off, big love right back at you, and thanks for digging the magazine. It means the world to me. And OMG! You papercharted!
Now, to answer your questions. Nope, no nurse leaders have reached out to me. That’s ok though. I’m not surprised since our profession isn’t so great at uplifting our own leaders. I started this magazine to change that by telling stories of amazing nurses (from past and present). We need those role models to inspire others!
If I could have dinner with five nurses, dead or alive, it would be a party! I’d invite them all to NurseCon at Sea. LOL!
First up, Harriet Tubman: She wasn’t just a trailblazer of the Underground Railroad; she was also a nurse. Did you know that? She saved lives in more ways than one.
Next is Mary Seacole: This dynamo lived and nursed alongside Florence but doesn’t get the credit she deserves. Oh, and she’s been coined the first nurse practitioner!
Obviously, we’d have to have Flo herself at the table (Florence Nightingale, that is!) — the OG of nursing. I’d ask her thoughts on modern nursing.
I’d also invite Mary Eliza Mahoney, the first African-American licensed nurse. I’d pick her brain about what sparked her nursing journey and how she thinks we can make the nursing profession more diverse to represent our awesome communities.
And last but not least, Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.
I’d ask these brilliant nurses for their advice to improve healthcare and uplift the next generation. That dinner would be epic!
BRIDGING GENERATIONS
Hello, I was wondering if you have any suggestions or recommendations on how a seasoned nurse can relate to a new nurse during orientation. The best way to be a preceptor to a new nurse who was educated during the pandemic and whose generation has grown up with instant information and resources via the internet. How can I be the best preceptor to a new generation of nurses? — Melanie W.
Love this question, Melanie! New grads come into nursing from all different ages and generations, but connecting with the new generation of nurses is so key. Every preceptee is different, so take time to get to know them. Ask how they like to learn best. Some people need to see it, others “just tell me and I got it!” Find out their learning style.
And here’s my fave tip — come up with a secret code word together that the new grad can use if they need backup with a skill. Maybe “banana” or “purewick” — something discreet. That way, if they’re in a room and need assistance, they can say the codeword, and you can jump in to lend a hand without embarrassing anyone. Also, remember you’re both still learners! Don’t stress about being “perfect.” The new nurse might teach you a thing or two. I’ve learned so much from young nurses who are savvy with new tech and equipment. We all have wisdom to share.
NURSING SCHOOL STRUGGLES
Hello Nurse Blake, One, you are the absolute funniest and best part of my day. Two, how did you survive nursing school without crying and wanting to quit all the time? I feel stressed and overwhelmed. How did you find the time to study and do homework and live? Thank you, Stressed out nursing school student. —Destanee A.
Destanee, big hugs to you! Brightening nurses’ days is what I live for.
Now listen, wanting to cry and bail on nursing school is TOTALLY normal, trust me! Honestly, it’s almost a nursing school rite of passage. My secret? Just keep the full-on meltdowns to 5-10 minutes max, then splash some cold water on your face and get back to the books. Cry if you must, but keep pushing through.
I get distracted easily, so here’s what works for me: I use block scheduling. Break your study time into chunks with plenty of breaks to rest your brain. Also, nursing school should be a priority in your life but not THE priority. Keep yourself, family, and friends #1. Everything else will work out if you take care of YOU first!
Oh! Don’t just cram to pass exams. Study for when you have to use that information to save a life one day. Visualize success! And no matter how tough it gets, DON’T QUIT! You got this, future nurse.
RESPECTING RRTS
I am an RRT (Registered Respiratory Therapist) currently enrolled in RN school. I know your father is an RRT. I am curious to know your thoughts towards RRTs. My hospital is notorious for RNs disrespecting, being inconsiderate, and acting as if we are beneath them. — Stacy G.
Stacy, I have mad respect for respiratory therapists! Y’all are integral to the care team. Patients need your specialized knowledge. And we need you to help manage all the ventilator alarms!
No matter your role or title at a hospital, we’re all there for the same purpose — to help people heal. I don’t care if you’re transport, dietary, RT, CNA, nurse, or doc. We’re one team.
I get it; some departments can be busier than others at times, but that’s when we should rally even more.
At the end of the day, there’s no room for egos when lives are on the line. So, congrats on pursuing RN school while still valuing your RT skillset. Let’s keep that unity strong and keep being awesome!
HAVE A QUESTION FOR NURSE BLAKE?
We want to hear from you for our next issue. Ask me! nurseblake.com/pages/magazine
