Nursing in a virtual world

It is almost a reflex when you tell people that you are a RN that they ask, "What hospital do you work at?"

When I tell them I am a RN case manager and I telecommute, they often have trouble wrapping their minds around the idea of a nurse who provides nursing care in a virtual environment. Everything I do is over the telephone or internet and I work with patients and families all over the U.S. I take care of a wide range of diagnoses, from Asthma to Zoster infections, Cancer to Cardiac disease, Diabetes to Developmental delays, from premature babies to the very elderly. I am a professional problem solver, empathetic counselor, and clinical educator. My tools are not a stethoscope or EKG machine, but my ability to listen, provide resources, and foster self reliance for patients and families.

Recently, my son asked me what do I say the first time I call my patients? Great question, so much hinges on that first call. You really have to introduce yourself and your role very concisely and meaningfully to encourage people to share about themselves and their health issues to a voice over the phone. I introduce myself as a Nurse from their health plan and I am calling to see how they're doing and what they need for themselves and their families to cope with their disease. I tell them they can call me anytime and here's my direct extension. Then, I ask, "How are you doing? What can I do to help?"

There are many rewards, the child who has finished cancer treatment and can return to school, a severe asthmatic who quits smoking, a terminally ill patient receiving comfort and dignity as their families also receive care and support. Needless to say, I become very attached to some patients and families, especially those I have worked with for years and have been through some very trying times with. It is a privilege.

Yesterday, I signed up to take my certification exam in March to become a Certified Case Manager. After 8 1/2 years in my current and hopefully last job, (because I love it and enjoy it so much), I think I owe it to myself, my 28 year nursing career, and my patients to take this step. Please, wish me luck. ;oD