It was one of those days that come with the job...

I found this Poem and it rang so true; every nurse out there will relate to it! Sometimes there are those crazy long days where it is impossible to meet all the demands of the job and it is only the priorities that can be met as much as you try. You are still in the hosptial 3 hours after your 12 hour shift should have been over, finishing up charting, still answering call lights, tired, hungry, and emotionally, physically, and mentally worn to the bone.

I'm Sorry In Advance

I'm sorry in advance
Your bed's not made today
But I have a patient here
Whose chest pain won't go away.

I'm sorry in advance
I didn't get to comb your mother's hair
I've a patient with emphysema
She's scared, she can't get air.

I'm sorry in advance
Your fathers still in pain
I'm trying to reach his doctor
I'll have to try again

I'm sorry in advance
Your dressings aren't yet done
But a patient has just passed away,
I offered solace to his son.

I'm sorry in advance
I'm not cheery as a bird
I've worked 12 hours, my feet ache
I asked for help, but no one heard.

I'm sorry in advance
I've only two hands and two feet
I'm trying to care for you, patient
Your needs, I want to meet.

My 12 hours now are 16,
No replacement could be found
My aching feet they cry out
My head begins to pound

If I could sit down for a minute
And maybe grab a bite
Phone my family to say I love them
And I'll be late again tonight.

I'm sorry in advance
I didn't do all that must be done
If I worked any faster
I'd soon begin to run.

When I do get to hold your hand
Or wipe your furrowed brow
Please understand, dear patient
I care for you and how.