A Time to be Thankful ~ Day 14 Nurses & Medical Staff

Nurses and any Medical Staff

For anyone who works or has worked in a hospital or care-giving environment knows this job is not easy!  There is not enough gratitude or pay for dealing with sick and injured people. Even though it is a hard job, there can be some rewarding moments, especially when people get better.  

I worked 2½  years at Bayshore Hospital in the Physical Rehab department.  Many of the patients were senior citizens who had hip or knee replacements.  Most were good patients and I enjoyed hearing about their life stories.  

Some of the patients could be difficult.  They would refuse physical therapy and their medicine at times. I don't know very many people who like to be in pain.  We all get tired and irritated when we are hurting.  Imagine having to deal with tired and hurting people times 20!  Being able to have compassion with an irritated person takes patience and a gift.  It isn't easy to accept the loss of some independence.  The thought scares many people.  There were other patients at Bayshore who loved the attention and sought out every nurse available. I think they enjoyed being "sick".

   

However, some people would not be in the hospital if it were not for the quick thinking EMT's.  There is not enough pay in the world for someone saving your life.  Not only do EMT's save lives, they have to endure and help calm the emotions of other people around them.  It is hard not to panic in these life-threaten situations.

I believe the most compassionate and challenging are those who work in nursing homes, home health, and hospice care.  So many patients are thrown into nursing homes only to be forgotten by their families. The people are left in a lonely environment feeling as if they are a burden to their families.  Unfortunately, we live in a selfish society where we can't be "bothered" by the older generation.  In China, the younger generations feel honored to care for their parents and the older generations.  Maybe it's a trait that we in America will someday adapt to.

Part of the Texas Medical Center in Houston

When my Dad was in the Bluegrass Hospice Care at St. Joseph,  I was taken back by the warmth and compassion the staff had for all the families. I can't imagine their heartache by seeing patients pass away on a daily basis.  Not only do these nurses and staff have the medical knowledge but they have a heart that you don't get by going to years of school.

I am so blessed and thankful to be in Houston where some of the world renown hospitals and doctors are found.  Be thankful for all the doctors, nurses, EMTs, PCTs, and tons of other medical staff.  Their job is never ending!!