Today, we’re turning the spotlight on two nurses sharing different perspectives about their experience In The Field. Gail Robbins, RN, is a health educator in California. She takes a holistic approach with her work, focusing on the healing aspect of nursing through energy work and massage. She’s offering relaxation and stress-release advice for new nurses; as well detailing her journey into the healing arts. John Starr is a neurosurgery nurse in in sunny California as well. He’s talking directly to new nurses: sharing valuable advice on confidence, maintaining positivity, and standing in your power. Read on for some incredible advice!

Gail Robbins, RN

True or False: Nurses eat their young?

False!!! The healing profession of nursing is about supporting, nurturing, and guiding the newest nurses. One choses this profession because we to want to help others through whatever healthcare challenge they may be experiencing. I feel we have an obligation to mentor and guide the newest graduates to help them better serve their patients.

What is your specialty and where are you based?

I have been in private practice since 1981, after 12 years of working in hospitals. The range of my practice included diabetes educator, therapeutic massage, reiki, therapeutic touch, pre-op hypnotherapy, and now home health. I live in Monterey, CA.

Any self care or mental health tips for new nurses?

If you don't self care and nurture yourself, it is difficult to serve others with your full attention and compassion. Breathing is the easiest technique to destress on the spot, and you have to do it anyway! Slow deep abdominal breathing can reset and decrease your stress. Imagine breathing in peace and exhaling the tension/stress/etc. 12 breaths like this can make a BIG difference. If you're somewhere where you have privacy, you can exhale with a sigh, letting everything go. This is also great to do in the car on the way home so that you don't bring the stress of the day home with you or to your family. Make sure to get out in nature, walk, breathe! Your mind can be your prisoner or liberator, so keep it positive and take care of yourself, you are soooo worth it!

How did you choose your specialty? What drew you to it?

I have been a volunteer with a local Hospice. Bringing comfort to patients who are getting ready to pass is an honor to be able to do so.

John Starr, RN

True or False: Nurses eat their young.

It’s not just nurses. Every field has its “young eaters.”

What is your specialty and where are you based?

Neurosurgery in California.

Any self care or mental health tips for nurses?

Learn/practice confidence in your self ASAP. Never accept being talked down to by anyone. Always be mindful of others. Keep in mind how your actions affect others around you. Stay positive as much as possible. Touch is very important.

Given the opportunity to speak to yourself on Day 1 of nursing school, what advice would you give?

Stay positive. Portray positivity in all you do. No one is perfect, no matter what they tell you. Use your recourses. Make your patients feel important. Make your resources feel important. Goodness rubs off on everyone.