At one of my job interviews, I was asked, "What is a disadvantage about nursing." The answer was easy and obvious to me. The continuity of care was missing - especially since I was used to working with an expecting couple before during and after birth as their doula.
So, I was pleased this week when I was able to provide somewhat continuous care with one particular patient. I was assigned to "catch" her baby in the delivery room. Then, the next two days I was assigned as her postpartum nurse, along with my preceptor. I even got to do her discharge teaching the day of discharge.
Today was a significant day for me as a new nurse. It was my first day assigned to a patient as primary nurse. My preceptor was available to help and answer questions as I needed her; but, she totally let me run the show and really feel what it is like to have to organize your day, make accurate assessments, chart everything necessary, medicate on time, do appropriate teaching, AND provide compassionate care.
It kept me busy having just one patient.... I admire the nurses who can do it with 3 or 4.
Oh and it was my first time that I had to work on a weekend..... My kids are less than happy... But Mark helped explain to them that women do have babies on Saturday's, too.
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