Men In Nursing 2020

Aaron Acquisto, Magnet Coordinator, Valley Presbyterian Hospital

Looking back on this year, what have been the biggest changes in your practice?

Many of us have learned a lot about resilience. In my 10 years as an RN, I have always been keen to focus on the needs of others, but I often forget myself. Recently, I was struck by an article that emphasized the importance of recovery: building resilience by finding ways to recharge my body, mind and spirit.

Tell us about the most inspirational thing you’ve experienced as a nurse during this pandemic.

I spent five weeks assisting the telemetry COVID-19 response unit as a nurse leader on the night shift. The camaraderie, teamwork and partnership was like none I have experienced. Within the first week, we established a rotating “warm-zone runner” position, who would don appropriate PPE to answer all call lights and assistive needs between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. The immediate changes we noted were extraordinary! Staff felt more comfortable managing the unit through this shared responsibility, and it greatly reduced the amount of PPE used per shift during a period when PPE was not readily available.

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What nonmedical support from family, friends or the general public has been most appreciated?

My entire family is on the East Coast, but we make an effort to communicate regularly via text chat and FaceTime. It is a blessing that technology enables me to connect with my parents, siblings, nieces and nephew every day.

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How have you grown as a nurse since you started working in this profession?

Thanks to my many mentors and teachers, I have grown the most in emotional intelligence. Everyone has a story to tell, and most people want someone to listen to that story. Take time to listen to patients and team members, or we may miss a great idea or a key symptom. Listening is one of the greatest gifts we can give as nurses and nurse leaders.

Read the full Men in Nursing 2020 article here.


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