In reflecting on my nursing experiences in pediatrics, I remember child abusers, molesters, and addicts who stood at the bedside of their broken children. How can I possibly demonstrate positive passion toward these people?
Slowly, I am beginning to realize that to have a passion for all humanity, I must see people as God sees them. When we have a passion, we are committed to excellence. Colossians 3:17 states: "And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (NIV). Sometimes excellence in nursing comes easily, for example, when we celebrate with families the birth of their newborn or when the last dose of chemotherapy is administered and cancer is beaten. These are privileged nursing moments when passion and excellence are readily incorporated into our care.
From the standpoint of a Christian worldview, the word "passion" often is associated with the sufferings of Christ. Excellence frequently warrants walking in another's suffering. For nurses, we see suffering on a daily basis making excellence more difficult. I penned the following poem in response to viewing suffering at a children's home in Haiti.
Did You Make a Mistake, God?
What went wrong as the cells were laid?
This cannot be a punishment for sins that were made?
Why do you allow such suffering here?
The purpose of which is so unclear.
Why do they watch me, accept me, and smile?
I cannot walk with them, not even a mile.
Please not me, Lord, there are others out there.
But me, I simply do not dare.
Let me stay in my box, I'll shine for you there.
I'll teach Sunday School and your gospel I'll share.
But today if you make me step outside
I know I will have to die to all pride.
Open my eyes that I might see
The lessons of all humanity.
Open my ears that I might hear
Your still small voice despite my fear.
To be excellent nurses, what happens to others must affect us. We need a passion for nursing, a passion for people and, most fundamentally, a passion for God.
Will You Be a Telenurse?
Telenursing is the use of telecommunications technologies for the provision of long-distance healthcare. Cell phones are used increasingly in healthcare because they are accessible throughout the world and can transmit sound and pictures from distant locations. A number of health initiatives involving the use of cell phones are being developed to address health disparities in poor communities. The rapid escalation of both cell phone coverage areas and users in developing countries is making new technology for health use possible. It is estimated that more people currently use cell phones in the world than those who do not!!
The following guidelines are for consideration in telenursing:
1. Privacy and confidentiality must be maintained at all times.
2. Informed consent should be obtained from all clients. The risks and benefits of telenursing must be explained. For example, risks could be limitations in assessment, and benefits could be availability of service to less accessible areas.
3. Approval must be given by clients before information is shared.
4. Standards of nursing care must be maintained at all times. Telecare should not substitute for established care, but should augment care.
5. Protocols and the policy of the agency must be followed. If you are unsure about how to proceed with the client, it is best to have him or her seen by a practitioner.
6. All client assessments, recommended cares, and education must be documented.
Source: Guido, G. W. (2006). Legal & ethical issues in nursing. New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc.
Nursing Graduates
Congratulations to all new graduates for your great accomplishment!! Best wishes as you prepare, take your NCLEX exam, and begin your professional nursing practice. We encourage you to accept the challenge of the devotional My Passion to become an excellent practitioner who has a zeal for nursing, people, and God. May these words reflect your desire to serve God through nursing.
"And sing, sing your hearts out to God!! Let every detail in your lives-words, actions, whatever-be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way" (Colossians 3:16b-17, The Message).