Thankful

I am a mother. I am also an ER nurse. Since I have become a parent, my perspective on a lot of things has changed, especially at work. I work at a community hospital in my hometown, not a major healthcare system or trauma center. We definitely see our share of sadness, but most days things aren't bad. Taking care of sick children is different for me now that I have a child of my own. Fortunately, most of the kids that we see in the ER have minor injuries or illness. However, when we have one that has a more serious diagnosis, it is much harder. Last night was one of those nights. My night started with having to put IVs in two kids under the age of 3. I don't think my IV starting skills are all that great especially on children since it's not something we do often, but I got both IVs on the first stick (yay for the ego boost!). Both of those kids were fine and were discharged after some medicine and fluids. Then, things got a little harder. We cared for a teen with an unexpected, tough diagnosis. I can't imagine what her parents were feeling. I thank God for my beautiful, healthy baby girl every single day. Nights like last night make me do a little more talking to God and a lot more snuggling on my little lady. A night in the ER can make you count your blessings and remind you to worry less about the unimportant things.