May 6-May 12 is National Nurses Week. It is a time of recognition and celebration for a group of people that have dedicated their lives to care for others.
As nurses, we work with many people in their most vulnerable and sometimes lowest point of life. We are there at the time new life comes into the world and at the end of life when goodbyes are being said. We celebrate life's miracles as well as grieve with our patients as they face life struggles. We empathize and take on the role of advocate for our patient's needs.
We adjust how we care for patients using evidence-based research to assure the best outcomes can be reached. Be it full recovery or maintaining comfort, we want what is best for each individual patient.
We care for people with cancer, bowel trouble, wounds, contagious illnesses, etc.
Many people have told me they don't understand how we can deal with body fluids, smells, or even death. The truth is we don't "deal," we come alongside our patients. Our job isn't about the tasks required, it is about the person being cared for.
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I am grateful that I found this profession. I am in a career that continually challenges me, a career that is new and exciting every day, a career that pays well and allows me to support my family, but most of all a career that makes a difference in people's lives.
I would like to say thank you to all of my co-workers and other nurses out there who give so much of themselves to the care of others. Have a great week and keep up the great work!
Kyle Zelinske
Registered Nurse
Essentia Health-St Joseph Medical Center
