Mom at bedside

Tonights title is one that is incredably significant to me and I didn't even realize the importance of it untill about a year ago. I had bought most of Braden's medical files, nursing charts, doctor notes, test results etc, etc..about 3 years ago when I was contemplating writing my book. Over the last few years I have very slowly been going over the notes and have noticed that with each nursing entry and sign off..it all started and ended the same...mom at bedside. As a nurse I understand the magnitude of this and what it means to the medical world. You see, it expresses to each and every medical professional that mom and/or parents are involved and consistently devoted to the child. It lets other nurses know that the parent is hands on and that they can be trusted, and should be respected with their wishes regarding the care that their child recieves. Mom at bedside represents a mom who probably needs a break, and as a nurse lets not forget to care for that mom..emotionally, mentally and physically. Remind her/him to care for themselfes, take a break, get some fresh air.
ALl of that is easy to understand in a hospital, sitting at your charting desk. Going over the last nurses notes and deciding what nursing duties needs to be done.
When you are that mom at the bedside, there are no words to describe the feelings of "being at bedside". There is no other place to be, there are no other choices..that child is your life. Mom at bedside symbolizes a virtue of strength and determination, fear, perserverence and the gift of love. A mothers love has the ability to change the course of any event, a mother has the spirit to heal any wound if they believe in the power of prayer.
I have learned many things while becoming a nurse and having the opportunity to work with many mothers/fathers/grandparents and children. However being a mother has taught me more about life than any professor, doctor or surgeon could ever teach. I had so many hopes and dreams while being "mom at bedside", never really giving up on my faith. Some of those dreams came true..luckily the most important ones. But, some didn't..I still have my hopes set high, untill those dreams are achieved I will always be mom at bedside.