As Mary Jo Kreitzer references in her book, Integrative Nursing, person-centered, relationship-based care is cultivated by deep listening, understanding the other’s frame of reference and seeking solutions that honor their beliefs and values. This narrative with the voice of both a nursing mentor and mentee recognizes the power of this relationship upon them both as well as its impact upon patients/families.
Mentor/Mentee Story
Lauren (mentor): My first experience with precepting was twenty-nine years ago after only six months of nursing experience. At that time, I thought it was a completely insane request that I precept as I felt I could barely keep my head above water never mind worrying about another nurse. Twenty-nine years later, I have never stopped precepting. My most recent experience is the most unique situation I have ever experienced and subsequently has been the most joyful and rewarding. It has been filled with all emotions – fun, sad, happy, anxious, devastating and encouraging. Megan (mentee and new graduate nurse) moved here from Oklahoma, a newlywed, far away from all family and friends. One day, two months into her orientation, she was hospitalized after going blind in her left eye at work. During this hospitalization, she underwent multiple tests along with treatment. Despite all of these life stressors, distance from family and health issues, she continues to learn and retains a positive commitment to learning everything possible about her patients and families. I am amazed at how she has progressed and her ability to fully function despite all that she has been faced with. She has been very selfless in her practice, able to think of patients before herself, while remaining a patient herself! Truly amazing! I can only hope that I have made her orientation as positive and uplifting as ever possible. It has been, and continues to be a very joyful, fulfilling, unique experience for me.
Megan (mentee): My experience here with Lauren has been unlike anything I could’ve imagined. Lauren has been supportive and encouraging through all the chaos of the past few months. Coming to the NICU to learn and to care for the babies while spending my days with Lauren has played a major role in my positive attitude. I find true joy in coming to work and learning to care for my patients even while dealing with my own health concerns. I have learned so many lifelong skills in my time here and hope to spread the joy I feel as a nurse to those I am caring for and working with.