It is my philosophy that nursing is one of the rare professions that provides one of the greatest opportunities to make an impact within one of the shortest amounts of time. It is a privileged field. We are trusted with the most personal aspects of peoples' lives. Often we are trusted with their lives. We are sought out of joy and desperation, to become a part of a stranger's mourning a death, or celebrating a birth. We are sought for advice, consolation, and healing. I can think of no other job so all-encompassing.
Our clients can be anyone, however they each deserve attention as though they were the only one. I believe that to function to the best ability, especially under stress, nurses deserve a safe and conducive environment where teamwork is valued more than any single contribution. In return, nurses have a duty to maintain a positive working environment through appropriate attire, attitude, and preparedness.
I believe that one of the most important roles of a nurse is one of the most difficult. That is, to constantly strive for the right thing. Mainly, because there is seldom a completely right or wrong option in life, and that hospitals fall in a gray area. Therefore, I define the "right thing" to be that which is in the best interest of my client as indicated by themselves or their family. Understandably, actions can have consequences, which is why it is noble to go to bat for someone else when you may face the penalty. But putting someone else before yourself is not only nobel. It is the responsibility of a nurse.
