From Birth to Retirement: A 42-Year Journey as an Obstetrical Nurse at the Same Hospital

With 45 years of experience in nursing, I, now 67 years old, have traversed a remarkable journey in healthcare. It all began in 1976 when I graduated from Hunter College – Bellevue School of Nursing in New York. My initial steps as a nurse were taken at Mt Sinai Hospital, where I dedicated three years to the field of medical-surgical nursing. Eventually, I followed the path to California, a decision that resonates with the eagle-eyed Bruins who spotted my affiliation.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have embarked on a career that brought me immense joy and allowed me to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives. While it wasn’t without its challenges and moments of stress, the overall journey was deeply fulfilling. I take great pride in maintaining a record of excellence, with only one patient ever voicing a concern – a situation that arose from a delicate moment of privacy. However, amidst the highs and lows, the most difficult memories to bear are those heartbreaking instances of fetal demise, moments etched vividly in my mind even now.

In many respects, the landscape of obstetrics has evolved over time, yet some fundamental aspects remain unchanged. While the process of pregnancy and birth itself endures, our methodologies and approaches have undergone significant shifts. One notable improvement has been the adoption of a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing for the presence of family members during labor and delivery, as well as the integration of both processes within the same room, eliminating the frantic rush to a separate delivery room. Moreover, there has been a commendable emphasis on fostering parental bonding by encouraging newborns to remain with their parents rather than being swiftly transported to a nursery, alongside a greater promotion of breastfeeding.

The integration of electronic medical records marked a significant shift in healthcare practices, bringing about notable improvements overall, despite occasional frustrations. Additionally, the advent of ultrasound machines revolutionized obstetrical care, reshaping diagnostic capabilities and clinical approaches. Interestingly, fetal monitors, depicted in the provided images, have remained relatively consistent in design since their introduction, underscoring their status as pioneering technology in the earlier years of my career. However, while these tools have undoubtedly aided in monitoring pregnancies, their efficacy in preventing adverse outcomes has fallen short of initial expectations, often necessitated more by medicolegal considerations than their intended clinical utility.

Reflecting on my career, the most disheartening change has undoubtedly been the proliferation of bureaucracy and the overwhelming focus on financial considerations within the hospital setting. What was once a beacon of altruism now resembles more of a corporate entity.

On a lighter note, amidst these transformations, I fondly recall the simpler joys, like my trusty Casio calculator watch. Wearing it, I felt a sense of pride and sophistication, a sentiment shared by many in that era. Though its fate remains a mystery, likely succumbing to wear and tear, its memory endures as a symbol of simpler times.

My youthful appearance owes much to my mother, who maintained a youthful visage throughout her life. However, it’s worth noting that the flattering picture I’ve shared benefits from favorable lighting, concealing any telltale signs of age like the deep lines between my eyebrows. In truth, I possess other photos where the passage of time is more evident – a fact I found amusing during the photoshoot, as my patient coworker, Stacy, patiently snapped nearly twenty shots, with most yielding less-than-desirable results!

My skincare routine is refreshingly simple – I rely on the natural oils of my skin, foregoing soap in favor of splashing cold water morning and night. Occasionally, I indulge in the nourishing benefits of sea buckthorn oil, a treasure I procure from a Russian market, or any oil enriched with vitamin C. Embracing the ‘less is more’ philosophy, I prioritize simplicity in my regimen. However, I am diligent about applying sunscreen, opting for mineral-based formulas over chemical alternatives, especially if I anticipate spending extended periods outdoors.

I was genuinely touched by the compliments on my curls! As any fellow curly-haired person can attest, it’s often a gamble – some days they cooperate beautifully, while others, not so much! Additionally, I’m still adjusting to my salt-and-pepper hair. Two years ago, I made the bold decision to embrace my natural color and bid farewell to hair dye. Though I began covering the gray in my 50s, I’ve reached a point where I’ve had my fill of that routine.

I prioritize a balanced approach to eating, focusing on wholesome foods like fruits, veggies, and grass-fed meat, while steering clear of most processed foods. However, I allow myself occasional indulgences, relishing ice cream and cookies when the mood strikes. As for fitness, I prefer moderate activities such as walks, hiking, outdoor stairs, and practicing yoga in the comfort of my home – I’ve never been a fan of gyms! Though I’ve long abandoned smoking, a habit from my college days, thanks to the irresistible discounts offered to nursing students at the VA Hospital in NY, I occasionally enjoy a glass of wine.