Advocating for Nurses Have you ever heard grandparents telling the story of how they walked to school in sub freezing temperatures, and 3 feet of snow? Okay, they may be exaggerating, but if a nurse that practiced in a hospital more than 50 years ago begins to tell you her stories, listen closely. You will not only find their stories interesting, you will be thankful you live and work in these times. 1965 Nurses Jane was a nurse that got her license in 1964, and went to work in a very large hospital. Pay attention as she describes what it was like then, you'll be thankful you work in these times. Jane said on her first day there, a doctor yelled at her and mumbled stupid nurses under his breath. Jane immediately went to her supervisor, only to be told doctors are just like that, ignore them. Jane said that on one occasion a coworker wore pants, which were white uniform pants, it was very cold outside and the nurse had to walk to work. The nurse was terminated for not wearing the usual nursing dress uniform with white hose, it simply was not acceptable to wear anything but a dress if you were a female nurse. Jane went on to discuss the conditions for nurses, with what would be considered harassment by today's standards, yet at that time it was considered part of being a working woman. Related:
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Improving Standards As time progressed, and unions, along with nursing associations developed, conditions began to improve greatly. Nurses slowly began to gain the respect they deserved, and today harassment is not tolerated, and yes, pants are worn, in fact most of the time. Nurses now are generally treated with respect, which they very much deserved. Most hospitals work continuously to do what they can to obtain and retain good nurses. Longer shifts but with a shorter work week is offered to most nurses along with other incentives to make their job more appealing. How to Advocate for Yourself When Needed When you feel that you have been wronged, it's natural that you want to speak up for yourself. There is however a proper way to express a need or to file a complaint. First and foremost, do not advocate for yourself when you are angry, or in the heat of the moment there has you upset. Once you have calmed down from the situation, give it some thought, are you justified