The Unspoken Truths of Nursing: Insights From a Nurse’s Perspective

No matter how many times you visit the hospital or watch medical dramas, the intricacies of a nurse’s job may not always be accurately portrayed. In my role as an emergency room (ER) nurse, I often find myself dealing with assumptions and misunderstandings from non-medical individuals. Here are some of the key insights I wish everyone understood.

Understanding Medication Knowledge

One common misunderstanding is that patients do not fully comprehend their medications. They often respond with phrases like, ldquo;I take a sugar pill and a water pill,rdquo; which could be fatal if the medical team is unaware of their medication regimen. It is crucial for patients to carry a detailed medication list, including names, doses, frequencies, and reasons for taking each medication, in their wallets. This information can be life-saving in emergency situations, especially when a patient is unconscious.

Key Takeaway: Always keep a detailed medication list on hand.

Transparency in Snack and Treat Distribution

Beyond the medical necessities, patients often receive food and snacks as part of their care. While these can boost morale and improve well-being, sometimes the healthcare team is not informed about such interventions. This lack of communication can lead to confusion and improper documentation. For instance, a patient might refuse a meal or frequently request to use the restroom because they have consumed too many snacks.

It is essential for the healthcare provider to be updated on any snacks or treats given to the patient. This not only helps in proper documentation but also in understanding the patientrsquo;s behavior. If a patient is refusing their main meals, it is important to log it on their food and drink charts.

Key Takeaway: Inform the healthcare team about any snacks or treats given to the patient.

The Roles within the Healthcare Team

Another significant misunderstanding is the belief that nurses are merely helpers to doctors. However, this is far from the truth. Nurses undergo extensive education and training that focuses on the entire patientrsquo;s care, whereas doctors are trained to focus primarily on the disease processes. It is a team effort to achieve the best outcomes for patients.

Key Takeaway: Nurses are highly educated and focus on comprehensive patient care.

Understanding the Role of Triage

An often-overlooked aspect of the ER is the process of triage. Contrary to popular beliefs, patients are not always seen in the order they arrive. During my work in triage, I assess each patientrsquo;s vitals, ask relevant questions, and briefly examine them to determine their risk potential for deteriorating, regardless of symptom intensity. Groaning from pain or nausea, while distressing, does not necessarily mean a patient will be seen more quickly. The patient who whispers that they canrsquo;t lift their arm might be more critical than the one who groans loudly. Thatrsquo;s why we have triage it is not about keeping you waiting, but about sorting and ensuring efficient care for all.

Key Takeaway: Understanding the triage process and its purpose.

In conclusion, while non-medical people may not always fully grasp the nuances of nursing and healthcare practices, these insights can help foster better understanding and collaboration. The more people appreciate the intricacies of the nursing profession, the better equipped they will be to support the care and well-being of loved ones and themselves.

Keywords: nurse understanding, nursing expectations, ER nurse, detailed medication list, snack distribution, triage process