The Question of the Day

I could kick myself.  I totally came across as a self-righteous, know-it-all, b**** at work today.  I didn’t mean to – I swear.  My stomach is actually a tad sour from the whole thing.  My intent was merely to point out a specific difference in Aussie v. American nursing practice, something that had been bothering me for a while.  I also meant to encourage my coworkers to think about their own practice.  But, how does one do that without sounding “holier than thou”?  I’m fairly certain it’s impossible.  Maybe if I possessed even the slightest amount of tact or finesse…

Hospital life is simply different here -not worse or substandard – just different.  So, I ask a lot of questions.  And I don’t just want to know how they do things, but why they do things. Sadly, my curiosity is often answered with, “That’s the way we were taught in university, so that’s how we do it.”  (Huh?  Isn’t such thinking the exact opposite of evidence-based nursing?)  Thus, I often find myself holding my tongue.  I don’t want to be seen as a negative, critical person.  And I certainly don’t want to be known as a stereotypical, arrogant American.  (I already catch enough flack for being a Yank!)  But, my inquisitive nature prompts me to question the theory behind certain practices.  And then I end up falling into the trap I was vigorously hoping to avoid. 

So, it’s safe to say, I’m still caught in the transition period where I’m learning how to adapt my skills and knowledge to this new environment.  It’s interesting, and I am learning a lot.  I just hope I get through it without alienating myself!