They say that laughter is the best medicine. Let's test that theory with an amusing story about nursing skills called “stuck at work”. After receiving a shift report, my supervisor advised I’d be transferred to another floor because they were short-staffed. Although it sounds like an easy request, being unfamiliar with patients, routines, and supplies can result in unfortunate accidents. Although you may believe that, at this point in the story, a normal slip-and-fall ensued. Guess again! 

I had just removed an IV bag from a patient and placed it on the medication counter. Reaching overhead for more supplies, I felt a piercing sensation. I didn’t realize the countertop was sticky and when I looked down was mortified to discover the needle from the IV bag was jabbed into the left side of my stomach. Hoping to avoid humiliation (insert laugh here), I quickly removed the offending needle with the goal of keeping my secret safe. Unfortunately, when the needle was removed, my left abdomen immediately swelled up. It was impossible to hide my left-six-month-pregnancy-sized abdomen. When this grotesque abnormality became painful, I called down to my friends in the VIP ward for help. Although they tried not to laugh, it was impossible because I joined right in. 

They put me in a wheelchair and took me  to the ER. The entire ER staff popped over to gawk at the nurse who stuck a needle in her stomach. So much for hiding my humiliation. Receiving care was difficult because laughter was ringing throughout the department. Are we sensing a theme in my nursing career? But I learned a very important lesson. Be careful when playing with sharp objects. Follow me for more nursing tips. 😉