The Good Ol' Job

Even though I've only worked 1-3 shifts a week this month, and as sad as I am about only being on-call next month, I LOVE my job. I really, truly do. I don't mind the dirty work, I have great co-workers, and I get to help, take care of, and love such wonderful people. 

During work, I find myself thinking "I am so lucky to have the opportunity to care for these people" all the time. I always come home from work extremely happy. As silly as it sounds, my patients literally fill my heart full of joy!  I try and remember all the funny and sweet things they say. Things like:

P: "I got married today!" Me: "You did? To who?" P:"You! … Well I wish I did!"

P:"Are you the bar tender?" Me: "Sure…" P:"Could you slip me some vodka in my drink when you fill it up?" 

P: (while cleaning up a bloody nose…) "Is the first thing they teach you in CNA school how to clean up blood, no matter where it's coming from?"

Cute, little Asian patient who doesn't know English: "Hallo Aleeesa" 

Me: "I just need to change your brief and then I'll quit bugging you!" P: "Promise?" Me: After much laughter… "Yes. Are you sick of me interrupting your sleep?" P: "Um… yeah." 

P: "What made you decide to pick this crappy job?" Me: "I don't really know… I've wanted to be a nurse since I was little. I like helping people!" P: "Well, good for you. You get bad hours, poor money, and you clean up gross stuff. That's a damn bad job, if you ask me!" 

P: "Thank you so much for all you do! I really appreciate it!"

(That's always the best, of course:))

I am grateful for this job. I thought it was time for a job at the hospital, but when that wasn't supposed to work out, I realized I needed more time with my sweet patients at the nursing home. They remind me to be grateful for my family, the gospel, my body, and love. I relearn every time I'm there to forget about myself and just love those around me. That's the biggest thing I have learned from working at Orem Rehab; how to love and what it truly means. 

My heart is so sad when I lose a patient, but then I remember that God is taking good care of them :)

The patients love when people bring their puppies in… but I might love it more :) 

 Hawaiian day… the patients loved it! 

 Sundays are always quiet… :) 

I wish I could take pictures of each of my patients… too bad that's against the law…