buy the piano

Have you ever found yourself wondering how oncology nurses can handle doing their jobs? It has to be the hardest job in medicine. And, as is learned from Theresa Brown's new memoir, Critical Care - A New Nurse Faces Death, Life, and Everything in Between, you can add the physical stress of working long shifts to the emotional toll of caring for vulnerable patients and their families.

I was originally drawn to this book because I'm intrigued by people who make changes in midlife. In this case, Brown left her position as an academic (professor of literature) to enter nursing school and ultimately become an RN specializing in oncology. It was interesting to read why she made this decision and the impact it made on her family.

Brown writes vividly about her triumphs and struggles to become a fully skilled, professional nurse within the unique work culture of a hospital, and more specifically, a ward on the oncology floor. Did you know that some of the mean girls we encountered in high school later became nursing supervisors? Heads up.

What I found most profound was learning how Ms. Brown's experience with her patients and their families changed her view of life. As she learned to be an effective advocate for her patients, she also found the determination to stand up for herself as a medical professional. And, not surprisingly, she has learned first-hand how quickly your life or someone you love's life can change. Take nothing for granted, or as the author says: buy the piano.

Note: I received an advance reader's edition of Critical Care from Library Thing's Early Reviewer.

Giveaway:
If you would like my copy of Critical Care, leave a comment about your view of the role nurses play in our healthcare system. I'll use random.org on the evening of Saturday May 8th to select the winner. Be sure to leave a second separate comment if you follow this blog. U.S. residents only.