If you are a nurse or know someone who is, you know that being a nurse at a hospital is one of the hardest, yet most rewarding jobs you can have. However, some people think they know what nurses do, but they have no idea just how much they juggle. Nurses aren’t simply there to obey doctor’s orders.
Here are some surprising things you may not know about being a nurse. If you are a nurse, which of these things have you experienced on a daily basis?
1. Sometimes a nurse may disobey orders
Nurses don’t always obey doctor’s orders. Since nurses are with you more often than the doctor and they are responsible for everything that goes wrong, they may change things based on your needs. This is the part of their job that literally saves jobs.
2. Nurses are expected to know it all
Nurses are not only expected to handle it all at work, they often have friends and family thinking they know it all. Many nurses have to deal with random people asking them for advice or help all the time. It can be annoying so think twice before asking a nurse a question on their off hours.
3. Nurses deal with the grossest things you can think of
Next time you see a nurse, thank them! They deal with blood, body parts, and other disgusting bodily fluids. Nurses see it all every day. Do you think you could handle it?
4. Nurses have to do a ton of heavy lifting
Many patients are heavy or unresponsive and must be helped up out of bed, off the floor or go to the bathroom. Nurses are expected to lift these patients, which is often more than even construction workers are expected to lift.
5. Nurses work long hours
You may know that nurses work 12-hour shifts or longer, but often if their shift is over, they may not be able to leave. If a nurse leaves before cleared to do so, they could be charged with patient abandonment.
6. Nurses are responsible for more than just patients
In addition to patient care, they may also be in charge of other nurses, nurse assistants or techs, medical assistants or other co-workers.
Are you a nurse or do you know a nurse? If you enjoyed this article, please SHARE with a nurse!