As a nurse, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, patients, and team. One does not have to believe in luck, gravitational forces, or jinxes, but you will still come across them in your line of work. The fear of superstitions can be so intense that people often contemplate changing careers or departments. However, I’m here to provide you with valuable tips and tricks to help you avoid or be prepared for these superstitious beliefs.
The Black Cloud
Those who have been declared to have a black cloud tend to always experience unfortunate events. As a result, the team may warn you that you are a potential source of disaster. A few examples are listed below.
- All of your patients seem to be experiencing stroke symptoms and require immediate attention.
- Numerous cases of cardiac arrests and trauma alerts are being received simultaneously.
- It seems that everything is not going as planned, with medications being unavailable and every patient requiring a central line.
If you have been told that you have the “black cloud,” don’t worry, as there could be many reasons for this.
- You’re new to a chaotic environment.
- You take the section that receives the most critical patients.
- This poor turn of events resulted from a lack of staffing.
Overcoming this declaration is possible.
- Adjust your perception and energy in crucial events.
- Try a different role or section in the department.
- A new member has joined the department and has taken over the cloud from you.
Full Moon
It is believed that unusual events often occur during a full moon, and this superstition tends to impact the night shift more than the day shift. A few examples of these strange events are listed below.
- There has been a rise in cases related to psychiatric issues.
- All of the bed alarms are going off at the same time.
- Patients who are stable can suddenly become very ill without any apparent reason.
To alleviate anxiety during a full moon shift, come to work mentally prepared.
The Q Word
There is one word that can disrupt a good work shift and it starts with the letter q. It’s rare to have days that are easy and organized, especially in the emergency department. Sometimes, a person who is not a part of the department, such as a patient or a visitor, unintentionally disturbs the peace. I advise you to avoid using the word “quiet” on days that appear to be going well. If it’s said, things can get busy, loud, and hectic in this department. So, let’s try our best to keep things nice and mellow by not saying it … ever!
Friday the 13th
Working on a Friday that falls on the 13th of the month tends to be the shift that everyone avoids. It’s like the idea of working on a full moon, but with even stronger superstitions when they both happen at the same time. Traumas and Baker Acts, as well as staff callouts, tend to increase in frequency.
Weather and Pressure Changes
Living in a place like Florida, where the weather can be unpredictable, you may find that this superstition is not always reliable. However, many feel that when the pressure changes there is an increase in the number of labors. This can be frightening when you work for a hospital that does not have a mom-and-baby unit. During poor weather conditions, helicopters are unable to fly, and ambulances are dispatched. It’s important to be fully prepared in case unfavorable events happen.
Holidays
If you are working in the Emergency Department on the holidays, then expect anything and everything to come your way. It can be tough, as the clinics and primary care offices had to temporarily close. The holiday season often involves family get-togethers where risky choices can be made. Therefore, I recommend having extra staff and food on hand to get through the long hours of what will probably entail broken bones, lacerations, and head injuries.
Your Perception Matters
The impact of events can differ from unit to unit. That’s why team nursing can be so helpful! It allows us to anticipate each other’s needs while caring for our patients. And remember, bringing a positive attitude to work is key! Our attitudes have an impact on the energy surrounding us. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a positive mindset and maximize our productivity during our shifts.
