Actress and ER nurse Jennifer Stone opens up about surviving long shifts and the lifelong effect of nursing.
What’s one thing that can make or break a long shift?
Your coworkers. The right team makes even the most difficult shifts feel more doable.
What’s something every new nurse should invest in before their first job?
They should invest in great shoes and compression socks. You don’t realize how much they help until you’re on your feet for 12 hours.
How has nursing changed you as a person?
It has changed me in a lot of ways, good and bad. The biggest positive change is that it has changed my perspective on life. It’s really hard to sweat the small stuff when you see what nurses see in the ER.
What helps you recharge after a long shift?
A long shower, an episode of my favorite show, and a bit of doomscrolling.
What’s one change that would make the biggest difference for nurses today?
Staffing is still a huge issue in nursing. I’m lucky to live in a state that has mandated ratios. To me, mandated ratios should be a national law, not a state-by-state one. It’s better for the well-being of both the nurse and the patient.
