A good day in the hospital is not like a good day on a day off. It is not a lack of patients, more free time to browse social media, or even a full 30 minute, uninterrupted lunch break (although, that would be nice).
A good day in the hospital is a day when each patient can be cared for individually, rather than quickly checking off the Cerner checklist. It’s a day with a 5 patient load and the chance to focus on the physical and emotional needs and wants of each patient.
It’s a good day when a patient wants to show me their family or a hobby they enjoy and I actual have time to sit down and listen.
It’s a good day when a patient who wants a bath is able to get one when they want it and even get a nice hairdo.
It’s a good day when a doctor appreciates the work that you do and the thought behind any questions.
It’s a good day when even when everything is going wrong, you know you couldn’t have done anything else.
It’s a good day when you have time to read progress notes.
It’s a good day when 0800 charting is done by 1100 when rounding began at 0730.
It’s a good day when there is time to walk a patient in the hallway or go outside in a wheelchair.
Its a good day when you find that one patient of the day that validates why you chose nursing.
It’s a good day when the power of prayer becomes evident.
It’s a good day when cancer has been ruled out.
It’s a good day when nurses work as a team.
What makes a good day?
There is good in every day, you decide how you see it.
Until next shift,
Shania