Patient becomes the nurse

            I interviewed Sylvia Crawford, a post-partum/ labor and delivery nurse.  Mrs. Crawford was drawn into the nursing career by the personalities and care of her nurses during her pregnancies.  She was offered a job at a hospital while she was still going through schooling.  Mrs. Crawford has been satisfied with her workplace and has stayed there ever since.  As part of her job she admits newborn babies into her unit and takes care of them and their mothers.  Sometimes the mothers and babies aren’t always healthy, so she must help care for their specific needs.  Her favorite part of her career is the dynamics of welcoming a newborn into a family.  She also enjoys teaching and demonstrating proper care of the babies to his/her parents.  The wide variety of specializations in nursing has been the most surprising aspect for her.  Mrs. Crawford informed me of some of the many different types of nurses you can be in a hospital, including a bedside nurse, out-patient, short-stay, post-surgery, and administrative.  The most challenging part of her job would have to be the hours.  She must stay awake for twelve hours during her night shifts while staying alert.  Being able to do her job safely can only be done if she is able to stay alert during her long shifts.  Mrs. Crawford’s advice for me was to not think that I am stuck in one area of the health field because it is so broad and varied.

Thank you note

(Was also given to her)

            Dear Mrs. Crawford,

                        Thank you for fitting me into your busy schedule to conduct this interview.  It was very informative and helpful.  I hope to one day become as dedicated of a health professional as you are.  I appreciate your advice and will always keep it in mind.

Sincerely,

Katelyn Richardson