Support From Colleagues is Essential
By Mary Kathryn Stapleton, RN, BA, CLC, CHS-II, CPHA
As an RN, I loved primary nursing and patient care. I have always been a
strong patient advocate and took a holistic approach to my duties. I was proud
of my profession, so it was devastating when I hurt my neck and back while on
duty. I could no longer fully physically meet the challenges of everyday
nursing. I was forced to make changes in my work routines that became permanent
and mandatory for my own safety and future employment. The shock of my injury
gave way to despair and depression. I had two small children to raise, and my
husband and I were counting on my continued income as a nurse.
I was feeling sorry for myself one day, when a good friend contacted me with
information about continuing education opportunities. What began as a supportive
chat between fellow nurses led me to change my attitude and put me on the path
to a new nursing career. Within weeks I was taking classes in forensic science,
and then medical legal consulting. I was alive again. I was going to turn this
injury of mine into an opportunity for growth and change. Now, here I am down
the road, a new and improved nurse. I have always loved anything related to
forensic science; I find it to be interesting and challenging.
I opened my own company last year and I have gathered as consultants the
finest group of healthcare professionals that I could find. It will take time
for the business to grow, but I’ve got all the time in the world. My life
keeps getting more complex and interesting. In January, I began teaching
forensic science to nurses, and I am thrilled to be entrusted with the
privilege. I am grateful to my fellow nurses for being so supportive.
I have noticed over the years that nurses tend to be friendly no matter where
you meet them; it is like an instant worldwide sorority of nurses. I encourage
nurses of all ages and backgrounds to nurture and support each other, because I
would not be where I am today if it were not for my nursing friends. I applaud
the noble vocation of nursing. In a time when there are nursing shortages
everywhere, I hope that more men and women will continue in the field and
promote its growth.
I am still quite proud of my profession, and I hope you are, too. Take a
moment to pat yourselves on the back. Remember the times you held your patients’
hands, looked into their eyes and comforted them. Remember the pain you
alleviated, the fears you calmed and the ruffled feathers you smoothed over the
years. Remember the families you helped. Remember the times you were there for
people, then go look in the mirror at yourself and smile. You are wonderful
people. You do wonderful things, work very hard and give a lot of yourself in doing
so; never lose that. I am so very proud to be in your company.
Stapleton is
president of Stapleton Forensics and Legal Consulting, Inc. of Lakeland, Fla.
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