Over my nursing career, I’ve had the unique privilege of experiencing firsthand the profound impact that Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) have on the lives of their patients. One of the most touching aspects of my role is meeting the fellow nurses I represent.
There is nothing I love more than when a nurse introduces themselves and tells me their nursing story. These moments, whether in restaurants or healthcare settings, remind me of the extraordinary work RPNs do every day and just how lucky I am to not only be a part of this amazing profession but to also be able to serve you in my current role.
The most profound way that I have learned the value of what RPNs do is in the times when I or a member of my family has needed care. On the few occasions when I’ve accessed healthcare services, it’s always heartwarming to encounter someone who whispers, “I know who you are, and I’m going to assign you an RPN to care for you.” It’s a testament to the respect and admiration that all nurses know I have for RPNs.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I remember giving birth at the hospitals where I worked in labour and delivery and feeling immense trust and confidence in my colleagues. As a childbirth nurse, I knew my care providers well, which eliminated one significant source of anxiety. This familiarity and trust in our nurses allowed me to focus on what mattered most, feeling secure and cared for by those I knew and respected.
We nurses speak the same language and share a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape. This connection allows us to exchange vital information effortlessly, knowing it’s not about seeking special treatment but about mutual respect and shared commitment to excellent care.
Recognizing RPNs through chance encounters or being recognized by them has always been an honor that reinforces my belief in their exceptional capabilities. We nurses speak the same language and share a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape. This connection allows us to exchange vital information effortlessly, knowing it’s not about seeking special treatment but about mutual respect and shared commitment to excellent care.
The theme of this Fall Journal, “Our Care Makes a Difference,” resonates deeply with me. I lost both my parents to cancer in their 50s and took that journey with each of them. My dad received excellent care in the hospital, while my mom, who was also a nurse, preferred to be at home for her final days. In Kincardine, we had VON nurses visiting every day to provide exceptional care that both my mom and I cherished.
Despite my extensive nursing background, I struggled to separate my roles as a nurse and a daughter. I vividly remember an incident where my mom’s dressing was soaked, and I felt an overwhelming sense of guilt for not noticing it earlier. The nurse kindly reminded me, “You are not the nurse here; you are the daughter.” It was a powerful reminder that in times of personal crisis, we don’t have to be both the caregiver and the family member. The nurses who cared for my mom gave me the incredible gift in that moment of allowing me to be a daughter first.
Even now, 27 years after my mom’s passing, I remember fondly these nurses who supported us. They ensured I had their phone numbers and responded immediately to the house when I called at 4 in the morning to let them know my mom had passed. Their compassion extended beyond their duties as well when they attended my mom’s funeral, nearly an hour away. Their kindness left an indelible mark on my heart and was an important part of my healing through my grief, demonstrating the lasting impact our interactions can have on patients and their families.
As nurses, we often don’t realize the profound influence we have on those we care for. Our patients may not remember our names, but they will never forget the care and compassion we provide. The legacy of our work lives on in the hearts of those we touch, creating a ripple effect of gratitude and appreciation that can last a lifetime.
As RPNs, our care truly makes a difference. It’s a privilege to be part of such an extraordinary profession, where the bonds we form and the care we provide can transform lives. Let’s continue to honour and celebrate the incredible work of RPNs, knowing that our care leaves an everlasting impact on those we serve.
Warm regards,
Dianne Martin, RPN
CEO, WeRPN
