Work Appreciation

Years ago, in another life, I worked EMS in Harper County as an EMT. We took call from time to time, and could be called out on a moment’s notice at any time, day or night. Most of the time we dealt with the more routine things, but once in awhile we’d deal with a car wreck, fire involving people, car-train collisions, medical emergencies, or other more serious medical or trauma issues.
As part of what we did, when we had information on a patient we were bringing in to the hospital, we’d call the hospital by radio and give preliminary medical information to the staff there so they could prepare for the arrival of the patient by having the equipment, medications, and other needs already there. Because it was a small hospital, the charge nurse on duty was literally in charge of the hospital, and would often answer the radio and communicate with the ambulance crew. That communication was vital, and we knew it was important that we all be on the same page, especially if the patient was seriously ill or had major trauma.
I was always set at ease when I called in a report and Lisa would answer. I always knew that everything would be fine. Lisa would be ready, would have staff ready, equipment and supplies handy, and that things would go well. She was competent, efficient, intelligent, and organized. She knew what she was doing, knew how to think on her feet, and knew how to make decisions.
Some other nurses could have learned a lot by just opening their eyes and watching her for a day or two. Sometimes I wished they would, because some nurses were just not organized and seemed to never quite be totally in the present tense.
Lisa gave me a good feeling when she answered the other end of the radio. I told her so more than once. Have you told anyone recently that they’ve done a good job for you? You might not supervise anyone at work, but you do have people work for you. The waitress, the clerk, or someone at the bank who helps you all work for you. Let them know how much you appreciate their work.