Something about working with 95% women can make a person's head spin. There are things that I was perfectly prepared to deal with in middle school...but as an adult, they take me by surprise. Sometimes I feel for guys....sometimes. There is a certain subset of rules I have used through out my life and taught them to my children as well, (with varying success).....they are as follows.....

1. Know the rules
2. Follow the rules
3. Ask for help when you need it

I feel as though when things get sticky or you aren't sure if you just refer back to that list, you can negotiate your way through most situations.

Boy was I wrong. Chicks....women.....ladies...girls....etc. often expect mind reading over simply asking for help when needed. If I have a full patient assignment and my patients are tucked in and you are sinking or need help or whatever the effing hell....JUST ASK! If you don't ask, you can not then complain that I am unhelpful because I was freed up and you were slammed. I have no idea about your patients unless you tell me about them. I suppose I could ask but generally, I try to mind my own business. Mainly, because our department is chalk full of the layzeeeeees who will delegate all work to the float or anyone who makes eye contact...if eye contact is made. I try to avoid eye contact. Does that sound bad? Well, whatever. I'm not purposely going to do your work and my own.

Don't get me wrong....I am totally willing to jump in and help to improve patient care and outcomes but I am not willing to do your work because having a cigarette takes precedent over completing tasks. You can be mad about that and try to talk shit, but I will call you out on it and I won't take responsibility for your lackadaisical practice.

So, in the future, refer the above referenced lists and your shifts will go smoother and without all the tears and complaining. Less smoking....more working.