I’m a Nurse, Solution Focused Life and Stress Management Coach and Entrepreneur.
Kathy Parlevliet, the Nurse who knows. Living in a work world surrounded by criticalness, finding happiness can be extremely difficult. Sometimes being isolated in a patient room and coping with so many emotions belonging to the patient, family, and yours. Knowing that life is so fragile, and no one lives forever. Even quietly thinking to yourself that their suffering is painful to watch. Not trying to be judgmental, but that is easy to say and hard to do.
How do you deal with creating a more joyful and peaceful environment, when a life is hanging on the edge of death? What can you do to help the patient and families? When can you support the other members in your department?
Trying to maintain a sense of respect for all parties concerned is a difficult task. Why aren’t we more prepared as a human race for death? Shouldn’t it be a moment of happiness, because you were able to be a part of someone’s life? Trying to move the family through the tragedy of the moment into a more positive focus is the goal.
The unknown questions without great answers, is always a tough spot to be in. Having recently been asked the all too familiar questions of, “Why is this happening? What else can be done?” Speaking the truth is always the best approach. With a kind and gentle voice, keeping some eye contact with all of them. Restating the facts of tests and procedures that had been done. Medications given and outcomes that were hopeful. Reminding their stressed minds, that the medical world is trying to help the patient. And letting the doctor know about these concerns too.
Being able to all be on the same conversation page is a must. We tell our Doctors, what is being said, and the questions being asked. Giving them an awareness of family dynamics. There is no easy path to this moment in their lives. If we as a medical community have not effectively harvested feelings of trust and security, then the outcome could be surrounded by anger and doubt. Which is adding more stress to the situation.
For me, I like to ask questions about the patient and their life. Where were they born? Did they have brothers and sisters? What was there career? Getting started with having the family recognize that we do care. That we also have a life away from the hospital, and we haven’t been spared from death either in our personal lives. So think about some powerful questions to ask.
If you need support from another nurse to assist you with these life moments, you have to ask. Look around your department, and identify the staff and their strengths. If you have struggles with this type of conversation, then I am here for you. TheRNcoach.com.
Let’s talk soon,
Kathy
© 2024 The Nurse Who Knows
