Por Espanol: Promesa Continua 2009 -- USNS Comfort

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Nurses change lives, educate each other in Antigua


From LTJG Kirstan Pyle
USNS Comfort
Everything happens for a reason and we learn from EVERY situation we are placed in. I am so glad to be a part of this awe-inspiring partnership with other countries, communities, and services. I have seen so much from each country and Antigua is no different. Antigua has been an awesome experience!


I have had the opportunity to meet, train, and share knowledge with many Antiguan nurses and nursing students. After attending the Antigua & Barbuda Nurse Association Education Conference, many of us realized that nurses, regardless of culture, location and practice, experience many of the same difficulties and blessings.


At the Educational Conference, we discussed Evidence-Based Nursing. There is a lot of thought in nursing that things should continue to be done a certain way because "that's the way it's always been done." Every nurse has rammed head first into one of these situations, and it is sometimes hard to convince others that different isn't always bad. Evidence-Based Nursing looks at research and true facts and those are what determines how dressings are changed, what medicine is best, etc.

The blessings come from our patients and the lives we touch every day, even when we don't truly realize what an impact we have had on someone. We are a part of people's lives when they are the most vulnerable and when they lack control. It is our duty, goal, and honor to reach out and touch them in whatever way is possible, and now we have that opportunity in multiple countries. We might only see them for a day or two, but they will remember us. They will remember the US. They will remember that one moment in time where someone spent time away from their home to take spectacular care for them.

Antiguans are incredibly passionate, caring, and selfless people and a true joy to be around! Our patients in the Peri-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) have been so thankful for the great care that they are receiving from all the nurses and doctors. It is truly my pleasure to be a part of this life-changing mission!

LTJG Kirstan Pyle
USNS Comfort

2 comments:

  1. Great post. I just spent 5 days in Antigua onboard COMFORT and I agree with you that "Antiguans are incredibly passionate, caring, and selfless people and a true joy to be around!" Great post once again! enjoy your liberty!

    ReplyDelete
  2. We are very greatful for Project Hope & USNS Comfort coming to the shores of Antigua. We the parents of Daniel Ince will like to send special thanks to the team that helped our son. Thanks to the doctors that did the surgery (Dr. Josh & Dr.Arnaldo Rivera) & the Project Hope Team (Linda Brant,Mindy ) and everyone else.You were some of the most kind, comforting & hard-working people that we have reached in a long time.We pray God's blessings on your continued trip and individual lives & Families. We really appreciate the all sacrifice & care that you (Project Hope & USNS Comfort Team) have done for our son. We love you all!!!!!!! and much Thanks......Continue the good work, you will be rewarded!!!!!! You are helping and affecting people lives in a very positive way!!!!!

    Richard & Karen Ince.

    ReplyDelete