Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1187856
"I was saving lives every day I came into work." Joshua Masih, RN, DNP, PMHNP-BC Pediatric Mental Health Faculty WEST COAST UNIVERSITY What do you particularly love about your specialty? After earning my BSN, I reluctantly accepted a position in pediatric mental health, planning to work there for one year and then transfer to ER. However, as months passed, I found myself growing passionate about this specialty. I was saving lives every day I came into work. I held the hands of crying patients as they contemplated suicide. I comforted parents who blamed them- selves for their child's suicide attempt. I was making a difference, and I realized that I'd found my calling. Please share the funniest or most moving thing that's happened to you as a nurse (bearing HIPAA in mind). A patient was admitted after a serious suicide attempt: She'd jumped in front of a moving vehicle. When she arrived, she was covered in bruises and still in pain. She made no eye contact with staff, mumbling quiet responses only when she had to. I let her know that as her nurse, I was going to help her through this. I listened to her attentively as she finally began to pour out her heart. After she was discharged, I wondered how she was progressing. Months later, the local high school celebrated National Suicide Awareness Day by having the principal read stories by students about how they had overcome depression and suicidal thoughts. One story was written by my former patient. She mentioned me by name, recounting how I had encouraged her during the lowest moment of her life and how she has since found purpose and hope. What has being a nurse taught you? The importance of self-care to ensure that I have the energy to properly care for my patients. ADVISING THE NEXT GENERATION (CONT.) Mo Amer, St. Francis Medical Center } Build trust and rapport with your patients, family members and peers. Some people may feel uncomfortable with a male nurse, but simple things such as knock- ing on the door before entering, introducing yourself and explain- ing your role can make a big dif- ference. This, along with compas- sion and good communication, is key to a successful journey as a male nurse. Kenneth Alvarez, Adventist Health White Memorial } Don't let old, outdated stereo- types dissuade you. There is room for everyone in nursing, and we need all the help we can get! I came to nursing as a midlife career change after unfulfilling years moving paper around in the corporate world. From my first day of clinicals, I fell in love with the profession and wondered why I hadn't pursued this path before. Kyle Ackerson, Good Samaritan Hospital } Be that guy everyone can depend on. Don't do anything dif- ferently just because the profes- sion is female-dominated. Be a good student and focus on your work. Make friends, both male and female, and be a good person. s November 18, 2019–January 13, 2020