The sum of a nursing career in one brief sentence

mitchspearman | Veer


It’s an interesting question: If you had to sum up your career thus far in just one brief sentence, what would those words be?

My answer was almost immediate. I remember reading something about “gut” reactions–usually your immediate answer is the most honest. The lack of time to ponder removes any false motivation or external validation. (FYI, that immediate answer is almost always the correct answer to a multiple choice question on an exam.)

What’s even more interesting is my answer has remained the same throughout my ENTIRE career, from start to present. That’s six years and counting!

My sentence apply to all of the following:

  • My days as a new graduate nurse in the ICU
  • My days as a new registered nurse (after I officially passed my NCLEX boards!)
  • My days working in orthopedics
  • My days working in a trauma ICU
  • My days working as a travel nurse
  • My days working in telemetry
  • My days working in oncology
  • My days working in recovery

Like I said, all of my experiences can be summed up in the same six words. And in my opinion, I’m a spring chicken: I still have so much to learn and I’m still learning so much!

While one day soon I will transition from a bedside nurse to a mid-level provider Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, I strongly believe my new career will be summed up in the same six words.

So what brief sentence can sum up my career so far?

NO TWO DAYS ARE THE SAME

No matter where I am, no matter who I work for or with, this profession is a constant adventure. Sure, you may take care of the same illnesses or treat the same common challenges, but no two patients are ever the same. And just when you think you have it all figured out, that proverbial wrench always gets thrown in the system.

How about you? What is your one sentence to sum up your career?

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