"In “Reflections on Doctors,” they have
produced something quite extraordinary in recent medical writings: a
compilation of 19 brief essays musing on the current relationship between the
species." --Nurses Speak Out, About Doctors By ABIGAIL ZUGER, M.D. The New York Times
Reflections on Doctors
Nurses' Stories About Physicians and Surgeons.
Edited by Terry Ratner, R.N. Kaplan Publishing. 195
pages. $14.95 http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/28/health/28book.html?partner=permalink&exprod=permalink
The book contains stories that reflect the full spectrum of nursing. Each story teaches the reader a lesson about the nursing profession. I was pleasantly surprised when I opened up the book to the table of contents and noted that my favorite nurse writers submitted many of the stories. Adrienne Zurub, RN, MA, CNOR, who is also the author of the book Notes From the Mother Ship: The Naked Invisibles, contributed a story about working as a nurse at the Cleveland Clinic. She writes in her essay A Truth about Cats and Dog:
“Arrogance, entitlement, outstanding talents (nurses and surgeons), and palpable confidence dominated the entire operating room suites. A nurse pushes herself or himself through this encompassing fog of testosterone. I say testosterone because the surgeons, the ones who are in charge, are all male. To work in this environment, one has to have the personality and the chutzpah-the balls-to think quickly and react perfectly. Weakness or hesitation is normally not considered an option.”
Does this sound familiar to you? I’m sure it does if you’re a nurse.
About Terri Polick
Terri Polick has been a nurse for thirty years, and is a published author living in Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. She is currently working as a freelance writer, and is a frequent contributor to Nursing Spectrum Magazine. Terri works at a local community hospital as a psychiatric nurse.
COMMENTS/PRAISE
"What a writer you are-formidable. Your writing style is beautiful.”
--Barbara., Attorney
“I just finished your book and quite enjoyed it. It was like drinking a nice cup of coffee from the local coffee shop (one of my favorite things to do!) It made me laugh but also gave me reason to look within myself.” --Angela
“I am thoroughly impressed. Your honesty is unbelievable. Your writings have caused me to view my life, my career and my person in a whole new way. Writing ‘Notes’ took more courage than I have seen in a long, long while.” --Garrett, RN
“I wish I had the courage to be as honest as you have been, courageous enough to expose myself so that others might gain some insight into themselves the way you have. You are a very real person that I not only admire, I respect.” --RN/CCF
“You are birthing a work that many women will appreciate and identify with, myself included. I applaud your courage, your goals, and your passionate transparency. Giving this book to yourself is a big gift for others.” --Laurel
“I just want to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for taking a stand. We experienced nurses out here are dying!! You GO GIRL! God Bless You, Adrienne!! I have never met you,Adrienne, but I am so proud of you.” --Rhonda, South Carolina
“I want to congratulate you on your book. It’s wonderful. Beautiful cover and even more beautiful inside. My best to you.” --Judy Carter, Author of The Comedy Bible.
“I have the utmost respect for this nurse having the courage to speak out. Many don’t have the courage to speak out due to the Clinic’s strong influences and reputation. Each member of the health care team is an important piece. You go girl!” --RN
“I am so glad that this is getting attention. It is so unfair that you lost your job (although it shows how powerful your writing is!) There are a lot of people who support you!” --Cheryl Toman, Professor, Program Faculty in Women’s Studies, Case Western Reserve University
“I loved your story!!!!!!!! Me and about 10 other nurses here at the University (of Michigan). You have made an impression!!! Thank you for being the voice, having the courage, and the perseverance to get a message of feminine strength out into the universe.” --Joan.






