Ask Nurse Blake: Answers To Readers' Questions

NEW GRAD NURSE MUST-HAVES

What are “must-haves” as a new grad nurse to have in our bag and locker? – Elizabeth G.

Hey Elizabeth, welcome to the exciting world of nursing — it's a journey filled with constant learning (seriously!), re - warding experiences, tears, drama, and Flexiseals.

For those "must-haves," always keep an extra pair of scrubs handy. If you ever get shit on you at work, they don’t let you go home to change. And trust me. Shit will happen! Just whip out that spare set, and you're good to go.

Your locker — that little space — is your sanctuary, so make sure it's well-stocked… with snacks!! Check out Nurse Becky. She doesn’t play with her snacks. If you don’t get the chance to get off the floor for lunch *eye roll*, at least you have a snack you can munch on when hunger strikes.

Oh, and let's not forget the pens! Seriously, you can never have enough of them. But here's a tip — don't get the ex - pensive ones because they will disappear into thin air, or someone will want to “borrow” them, aka steal. So, stock up on good ol' reliable pens that get the job done.

Best of luck, and enjoy every step of your nursing career!

ACCESSIBLE SEATS

I saw your last show in Madison, Wisconsin. I would like to go to the new one, are there accessible seats available? I’m 75 now and don’t walk too well. – Ellen D.

Hi Ellen! It's so awesome to hear that you caught my PTO Tour show in Madison, Wisconsin. I hope you had a blast! I know I did!

First, thank you for sharing that you might need some as - sistance. I totally understand, and the venue will have your back in making sure you have a comfortable experience. To get all the details and ensure everything is set up just right for you, I recommend reaching out to the venue directly. Give them a call or shoot them an email to discuss your specific needs. They will have all the information about accessible seating options and any other accommodations that might be available.

Your support means the world to me. I’d love to see ya again!

NURSING HISTORY

Can you tell us a little about your nursing history? You have mentioned that you have worked in the ICU and ER. Is there anywhere else? – Kathy F.

Absolutely, Kathy! My journey in healthcare actually began when I was 17 years old, working as a patient transporter. It was such a fun experience, and I truly had a blast. That's where my passion for healthcare started to grow.

During my time in nursing school, I worked in the OR, where I helped with prepping and cleaning up the operating rooms. It was great to be in such a crucial environment, supporting the surgical team behind the scenes.

As a patient care tech on the night shift in the neuro ICU, I learned a great deal about critical care. These patients’ needs were super challenging! I learned the importance of teamwork and effective communication, not just with colleagues but also with patients and their families.

Once I became a nurse, I was lucky enough to work in various units. I spent time in the pulmonary care unit and liver transplant ICU. Then, I took on the role of an injury prevention coordinator in the ER and care coordinator on a trauma floor, where I helped support patients and their families during their recovery journey. It was an amazing and rewarding experience.

If you know me, you know I don’t stay put! I ended up working at several hospitals across the country. I got to view nursing from different perspectives and broaden my understanding of the profession. Each role has contributed to my growth as a nurse. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m super grateful for every experience along the way.

LEAVING THE FLOOR

What made you leave working the floor full-time? – Ragan H.

Ah, Ragan! As you probably already know, nursing brought me some amazing opportunities outside of the bedside. I’m talking about my comedy tour, NurseCon at Sea, NurseCon, and now this awesome magazine.

With these exciting ventures taking up a good chunk of my time, it became challenging to work on the floor. Besides, no manager would ever give me the amount of PTO I would need to accommodate my commitments. LOL!

But I do miss the bedside. It’s a foundation that made my nursing game strong and keeps me fired up about nursing.

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