I just celebrated my 32nd Nurses Week. Usually we get gifts from the institution we work for. Useful things like pens, penlights, lapel pins and such. A luncheon is usually provided. It is all a way for the employer to show appreciation for the work we do.

Going through some things I ran across a bookmark I received titled, "101 Reasons I Love Nursing". As I read it, it made me remember that I really do love nursing, and I remembered why. I needed that recall after a particularly difficult few weeks at work.

• I am able to make a substantial difference in people's lives.
• I receive rewards that money cannot buy.
• I experience excitement, exhilaration and exhaustion daily.
• I am never bored.
• I am challenged daily.
• It gives me a feeling of competence.
• I play an essential part in the community.
• It adds meaning to my life, and I add meaning to the lives of others.
• I have very rewarding memories.
• It has given me so much personal growth.
• Making a difficult patient smile is an accomplishment.
• Helping the sick get better is a contribution to their loved ones.
• Doing good deeds, going the extra mile makes me feel good about myself.
• Educating others to stay well.
• Working with other caring people.
• Seeing patients who were ill and worried families having their loved one return home.
• Accomplishing the things that others thought could not be done.
• That great cafeteria food. (Just kidding I bring my lunch. Who has time to eat anyway?)
• Not being afraid of doctors.
• Seeing someone through a life and death situation.
• Hearing a baby's first cry and seeing the joy on the parents faces. This is an awesome experience.
• Making friends and meeting new people.
• Opportunity to work very long hours. That is a mixed blessing.
• Being prepared for emergencies at home
• Flexible work schedule, if you are lucky.
• It works your mind, body and soul.
• Multiple choices for a career.
• There are often opportunities for advancement.
• Lots of laughs, lots of tears
• Experiencing the fulfillment of the human touch
• Offering encouragement and hope to fearful patients and families
• Watching and assisting in the happening of healing.
• Wearing scrubs is like working in pajamas.
• Multitasking!
• Nursing teaches patience.
• Experiencing the empowerment of problem solving

These reasons are just to name a few.

I started nursing school in September, 1976. It was a one year program then. I could have gone on to become a Registered Nurse, but having a two year old and being a single parent, it did not seem possible at the time.

I do not regret it. The nursing field has provided my family and me a good income and a very rewarding life.

During my nursing career I worked for my first year in the well baby nursery, and then for 4 years in Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU). For the next 5 years I worked on a pediatric private duty case. The next 16 years were spent working in the Home Health industry, and the last 6 years has been in Long Term Care. This time was spent in various positions from direct patient care to management positions.

The experience that I have received in the nursing profession has been invaluable.

If you are considering a career in nursing, I wish you all the best.

I remember reciting this pledge at my graduation and it renewed my dedication as I read it today:

The Florence Nightingale Pledge

I solemnly pledge myself before God and the presence of this assembly;

To pass my life in purity and to practice my profession faithfully.

I will abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous and will not take or knowingly administer any harmful drug.

I will do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standard of my profession and will hold in confidence all personal matters committed to my keeping and family affairs coming to my knowledge in the practice of my calling.

With loyalty will I endeavor to aid the physician in his work, and devote myselt to the welfare of those committed to my care.