Monday, 16 June 2014

Back to the bedside

 
For some time, I've been looking for some voluntary work (my Relate counselling was my voluntary contribution  for many years), and at last I've found what I would like to do. A local hospice is recruiting nurses whose registration has lapsed to do nursing-related tasks for one 4 hour shift a week, and after a long wait (references, interviews, the dreaded criminal check thingy) I started last week. And I just loved  it.

It's  wonderful being back, in a place where the nursing care takes precedence over anything else; where there are no cardiac arrests and rushing about, and where people are cared for properly in a peaceful, well-equipped place surrounded by beautiful gardens. I feel very fortunate to be a (very small) part of it, (even though it will take months for me to know my way around. The layout is the kind where you need a satnav to help you).

Wish me luck!
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26 comments:

  1. L16 June 2014 at 23:23

    I totally agree that the more you give the more you gain.

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  2. Cro Magnon17 June 2014 at 04:49

    Congratulations. Nice to be able to give something back!

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  3. ADRIAN17 June 2014 at 05:34

    Great, I don't think I could stand the suffering in a Hospice but it's good that there are people like you around who can.

    You look wonderful in your uniform. I'm not sure about the collar, perhaps they'll swap it for you.

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    1. Frances Garrood17 June 2014 at 17:45

      Trust me, Adrian. The uniform I have to wear makes that look absolutely wonderful.

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  4. Librarian17 June 2014 at 06:08

    How happy the patients at the hospice must be to have you around, Frances! It shows in every job whether someone loves what they do or not, but nowhere is it so keenly felt as in nursing and in hospitality, I guess.
    Besides, you look very pretty in your work outfit!

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  5. libby17 June 2014 at 06:52

    Well done Frances....I'm sure you will find yourself being much appreciated.

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  6. Teresa Ashby17 June 2014 at 07:40

    I think that is just wonderful, Frances - you will be a valuable addition there x

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  7. Wendy's Writing17 June 2014 at 08:28

    What a wonderful thing to do, Rosemary - it sounds perfect for you.

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    1. Frances Garrood17 June 2014 at 18:33

      Thank you, Wendy (although I'm not Rosemary!).

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    2. Wendy's Writing17 June 2014 at 19:54

      So sorry, Frances - no idea why I just called you Rosemary (maybe it's because you're both lovely).

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  8. Graham Edwards17 June 2014 at 08:31

    Although I knew it could never be my career I worked for 6 months full-time as a voluntary 'trainee nurse' at the age of 16. It was one of the most interesting and rewarding (even de-lousing patients) experiences of my life. I know from my nursing friends today how different it all is. To do what you are doing now and in a hospice environment is a worthwhile contribution to society but it must also be immensely rewarding.

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    1. Frances Garrood17 June 2014 at 18:32

      I've always liked terminal nursing, GB. It's proper basic nursing.

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  9. Maggie May17 June 2014 at 10:31

    Lots of luck Frances. What a lovely thing to do and to be able to utilise those qualifications.

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  10. Rosemary Gemmell17 June 2014 at 11:31

    Oh that sounds perfect for you, Frances - I'm sure you'll bring much sunshine to everyone!

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  11. Patsy18 June 2014 at 10:06

    I'm glad you're enjoying it, Frances.

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    Replies
    1. Frances Garrood18 June 2014 at 23:02

      Thanks, Patsy. I'll enjoy it even more when I can find things...

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  12. Joanna19 June 2014 at 07:59

    You will bring so much to everyone there, Frances. I'm so glad you are enjoying it too. xx

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  13. DawnTreader19 June 2014 at 15:08

    Sounds like a good idea for the hospice as well, to get extra help from people with a lot of experience.

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  14. Lynne Hackles20 June 2014 at 18:46

    Respect, Frances.

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