Today, I treated a laceration above your brow where you had been struck. While carefully stitching the wound, I assured you that the scar would blend into your eyebrow over time. I noticed the bruises on your neck and helped you apply makeup to conceal the signs of where he had choked you. As I monitored your airway for swelling, I discreetly provided you with a list of local shelters and hotlines for battered individuals, tucking it into your shoe for safekeeping.
I offered to call the authorities for you multiple times, expressing my concern that the next time we might not be able to send you home safely. Today, I addressed your superficial injuries, but I worry that tomorrow, when the injuries worsen or deeper issues arise, we may not be able to protect you.
You came to me alone after fainting at your part-time job at the local cinema. You’re a college student, with your family far away. When I shared troubling results from your blood tests that suggested cancer, I wondered if the weight of my words truly registered. You requested a note to excuse you from your physics final—the only note I could provide. Today, I initiated a potentially life-saving treatment, but tomorrow, as you enter remission only to face secondary complications from chemotherapy, we may fail you.
I discussed dietary advice for managing your type 2 diabetes, only to discover that you were already well-informed. You arrived in the emergency room with dangerously high blood sugar levels and told me your insulin costs more than $1,000 monthly. As a fixed-income retiree, you’ve had to become resourceful. When I asked how, you revealed that you stretch a week’s worth of insulin to last the entire month, often administering less than prescribed. “Isn’t it better than nothing?” you asked. Today, I coordinated with the social worker to secure a voucher for a month’s supply of insulin. Tomorrow, when your rationing leads to dangerously high sugar levels, we may fail you.
I had you undress and placed your clothes into separate bags. I collected samples from various parts of your body to document the abuse you suffered. I took photographs of your injuries and provided medications to prevent pregnancy and HIV transmission. I expressed my sorrow over what happened, reassuring you that none of this was your fault. I let you shower, hoping to help wash away some of the shame and vulnerability. Today, I provided comfort and clean clothes. Tomorrow, I will stand alongside you as a witness for victims of sexual assault, but when the nightmares return, we may fail you.
I changed your diaper, brushed your hair, and sang nursery rhymes to you. I prepared scrambled eggs and avocado and read our favorite book, On the Night You Were Born. I told you I loved you repeatedly, tucking you in and kissing you goodnight. Today, I was your caregiver, and I will tirelessly advocate so that no one ever fails you.
For more information on home insemination options, you can explore resources on artificial insemination kits or check out this intrauterine insemination guide for additional support. If you’re considering fertility aids, take a look at the at-home intracervical insemination syringe kit.
Summary
This piece outlines the profound experiences of a nurse practitioner who encounters various patients facing significant health and personal challenges. Each narrative highlights the critical need for advocacy in healthcare to ensure that individuals receive the support and resources necessary for their well-being. The urgency of addressing systemic issues in healthcare is emphasized, as the practitioner reflects on their commitment to fighting for patients and ensuring they are never failed.
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