In the world of healthcare, Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) are a vital part of the healthcare continuum, providing essential care and support to their patients. But what happens when an RPN finds themselves on the other side of the bedrail, as the patient?
Norma, an experienced RPN and Director of Professional Practice with WeRPN, recently had this experience after a severe ankle injury required both surgery and a hospital stay. Her story provides a unique insight into the healthcare system from the perspective of a healthcare provider turned patient.
The incident
Norma’s ordeal began in the most unexpected way. One morning, as she was leaving her house to work at WeRPN, she fell down three steps in her garage, resulting in an open, displaced fracture of her ankle. Already in significant pain, Norma had the presence of mind to avoid looking at her injured foot, called for her son to come assist her and quickly called 911. Living in a rural area, Norma faced an 11-minute wait on hold before her call was answered, followed by a 35-minute wait for the ambulance. The reality of rural healthcare became starkly clear: delays that could exacerbate a serious injury were a terrifying possibility.
Emergency response and hospital admission
Once the paramedics arrived, Norma’s journey took a more reassuring turn. Despite the initial fear and uncertainty, the paramedics provided immediate and professional care, which continued once she reached the hospital emergency department. Here, the severity of her injury was confirmed through X-rays, and she was heavily sedated for pain management. Norma, with her background in healthcare, understood the implications of her injury – the potential for long-term disability – which added an emotional burden to her physical pain.
A unique perspective in the post-surgical unit
After her surgery, Norma found herself in a post-surgical unit where many of the nurses were fellow RPNs. One of her primary nurses was familiar with her through her work at WeRPN. “It was an honour to be taken care of by someone who understands the challenges and rewards of our profession,” Norma recalls. This connection and Norma’s work with WeRPN allowed for insightful conversations about job satisfaction and staffing levels of the nurses caring for her. She was pleased to learn that despite the broader challenges in healthcare, her caregivers felt supported and happy in their roles.
At Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital, where Norma was treated, she observed excellent leadership and a well-staffed unit. “I never had to wait long for anything,” she says. I felt so cared for, which is a different narrative than what we often hear, but it was my experience.” Norma’s stay highlighted that, despite systemic issues, there are pockets of excellence in nursing management, which allows healthcare workers to feel empowered to provide top-notch care.
The emotional toll and silver linings
Norma’s experience wasn’t without its emotional challenges. The initial shock of her injury, compounded by her knowledge of potential complications, was profoundly distressing. However, the empathy and professionalism of her healthcare team provided immense comfort. “When you’re a nurse, there’s a bit of a connection when you say, ‘I’m a nurse.’ It didn’t change the level of care, but it was a nice bond,” she explains. This sense of camaraderie among healthcare professionals was a significant positive aspect of her experience.
Throughout her five-day hospital stay, Norma encountered numerous healthcare providers, many of whom were RPNs. These interactions gave her hope and reaffirmed her belief in the importance of the nursing profession. “Despite the hard experience, those small encounters with so many dedicated providers were uplifting,” she reflects.
The bigger picture
Norma’s journey from caregiver to patient underscores the complexities and challenges within the healthcare system. Her experience reveals both the strengths and weaknesses, particularly in rural healthcare access and the critical role of leadership in creating supportive work environments. “It still worries me that there is work to be done,” she admits. The delays she faced in emergency response highlight the urgent need for improvements in rural healthcare infrastructure and resources.
However, her story also emphasizes the dedication and resilience of healthcare workers who strive to provide the best care possible despite systemic challenges. The excellent care she received, the support and happiness of the staff, and the leadership at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital offer a glimpse of what is possible when healthcare systems function optimally.
Norma’s experience is a powerful reminder of the impact of healthcare professionals’ work and the importance of continued advocacy for improvements in the system. As healthcare providers, we must strive to ensure that every patient, whether a fellow caregiver or not, receives the care, respect, and dignity they deserve. Norma’s journey has reinforced her commitment to making a difference, advocating for better support for healthcare workers, and striving for a healthcare system that meets the needs of all patients.
Norma’s story is not just about an injury and recovery; it’s about the broader narrative of healthcare in Ontario. It’s a call to action for better rural healthcare resources, stronger support systems for healthcare workers, and an enduring commitment to patient-centered care. As RPNs, we are reminded that our care truly makes a difference, both on the giving and receiving ends.
