I’ve spent more days in the hospital this past year than I’d like to admit, but through it all, I’ve learned some valuable lessons—ones that can help you advocate for yourself. Spending time talking to nurses and my hospital roommate opened my eyes to a few things that many patients don’t realize.
Tip #1 - All Nurses Aren’t Created Equal
Not all nurses see patients the same way.
- ER nurses deal with a constant influx of patients, some of whom are seeking shelter for the night or opioid medications. Unfortunately, this makes many of them jaded, which can affect the way they treat patients.
- Floor nurses typically care for admitted patients who have insurance and longer-term treatment plans. They tend to be less jaded and more focused on providing comfort and care.
It’s important to recognize these dynamics so you can better advocate for yourself and ensure you’re receiving the care you deserve.
Tip #2- You Can Refuse to Be Stuck with a Needle After the First Try
If you’ve ever had multiple failed IV attempts, you know how painful and frustrating it can be. During one of my hospital stays, a nurse saw my bruised arm and gave me a crucial tip:
You can refuse to be stuck again after the first try.
At Mount Sinai, there’s a two-stick rule—if a nurse fails twice, they must call a specialist. That specialist is often a vascular nurse, who uses a machine to locate the best vein for an IV. These nurses are rare, and hospitals usually only have one or two on staff, so you may have to wait. But if you’ve been stuck multiple times with no success, it’s worth advocating for yourself.
Tip #3- Walking After Surgery Helps with Healing
Never underestimate the power of movement.
I’m not talking about a full-on power walk—just standing up and taking a few steps can make a difference. Walking helps circulate blood, prevents complications, and speeds up healing.
After my major surgery, I forced myself to walk the next day. It was hard. But by day four, I was moving with less pain and discomfort. Everyone’s body is different, so always listen to what yours is telling you. But if you can, take those first steps—it truly helps.
Final Thoughts
Advocating for yourself in the hospital is key to getting the best care. Whether it’s understanding the different roles of nurses, knowing your rights with IV attempts, or recognizing the importance of movement after surgery, these small but powerful lessons can make a huge difference in your hospital experience.
Have you had any hospital experiences that changed the way you advocate for yourself? Let’s talk in the comments!
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