Colleen Youmans, BSN, RN, a fresh graduate of Med Surg., says how working with colleagues who are always willing to help and provide assistance helps her get through challenging days.

Q: TRUE or FALSE: “Nurses eat their young.”

I would say I have seen it both ways. Luckily for myself I’ve had experienced nurses be wonderful and always offer help or explanation. There has only been one nurse I’ve worked with that I could say “eat their young.”

Colleen Youmans, BSN, RN

Q: What is your specialty and where are you based?

I am currently a new grad on a med surg floor going on 5 months.

Q: What does cultural competence mean for healthcare providers?

To understand everyone has different cultural beliefs and values which is extremely important for healthcare providers to understand and respect to provide personalized care for each patient.

Q: What is your experience with nurse unions? 

So far it has been positive, but I’m also newly involved in one.

Q: What's one must-have that gets you through the tough days?

My other nurses. A majority are wonderful and extremely helpful. When someone has a high acuity group, everyone offers help and guidance.