I’m a Nurse. Solution Focused Life and Stress Management Coach, and Entrepreneur.
Kathy Parlevliet, the Nurse who knows. Knowing how much time nurses have to connect with patients and families is always a time bomb. Trying to communicate better is always the key. Stress is apparent on both sides of the lifeline of the patient. Watching interactions between people has always been intriguing to me. Especially when we are stepping into lives. Dysfunction is always present in every family. When you add illness, it tends to magnify.
Being able to understand this new fear. The unknown for the future. With all the questions and concerns wrapped around this moment. Can make the work day more complicated. Some nurses believe that they don’t have time for this part. They just meet the requirements needed for their job. Keeping the patient alive and safe, are the two conditions that are acceptable. Ohhh, and get out of work on time. Another huge stress that overtime is not acceptable. And you are held accountable for being late. I often remark about, how many times it is so unrealistic.
Almost every moment in our work day is unexpected. When a call light goes on, we have a small amount of time given to respond. A phone call to be answered. New tasks assigned as Stat! Doctors wanting information about their patient. And more than one doctor per patient, is not unusual. It is extremely difficult to balance. And patients need assistance. But with the everchanging dynamics of healthcare. Help isn’t always available. More excuses than results are the normal. And if you aren’t capable then you labeled. A complainer, or poor time manager. Your effectiveness waivers for real truth conversations, and then falls on deaf ears.
Speaking softly is an approach that has worked. People have to focus on what you are saying. Asking, a few personal questions. Sharing expectations of the day. And really listen. Be connected. If only for a few minutes. The fact that you cared, and listened and asked about them. Priceless. It is a game changer. Figure out the best time. A few in the morning rounds, or during passing meds, or a bathroom trip? Combine the moment with work. We have been created as multitaskers. And, ask before you leave. Can I get you anything? I will be back (and state a realistic time), then make sure the call light is in reach.
Discovered that I was quick to make decisions, after hearing situations, and moving on to the next task. I recognized that I really didn’t hear the whole scenario. My judgement stepped in to quick. Listening Loudly actually saved me time. And now ask, is this what you mean?
Still there are times that I didn’t hear an important part. I had already mentally moved on. Taking a breath and slowing down my thinking has been helpful.
No easy answers. We are truly busy. Trying to acknowledge everything we do as nurses. It is so remarkable. If you need extra support. A personal coaching session. TheRNcoach.com
Let’s talk soon,
Kathy
© 2024 The Nurse Who Knows
