Introduction
As a nurse and a mom, I often find the two worlds blending in unexpected, yet beautiful ways. The same calm, critical thinking I bring to a hospital shift often finds its way into our bedtime routines, mealtime habits, and even how I respond to toddler tantrums. In many ways, nursing has shaped me into the kind of parent I am today. Our different careers do shape our approach to the life we choose. Here’s how my career influences my approach to motherhood from health decisions to emotional support.
1. Health & Safety Awareness
Working in healthcare makes you acutely aware of how quickly things can change, especially when it comes to children’s health. At home, I’m always tuned into signs of fever, dehydration, or injury and I keep a well-stocked first aid kit within arm’s reach. Knowing how to clean a wound properly or when a cough needs attention gives me confidence.But this has also led me to overthink or overreact in certain situations as I find myself creating different scenarios in my head for outcomes from different incidences.
Tip: Every parent should learn basic first aid and have a simple but well equipped home first aid kit . It can make all the difference in a scary moment.
2. Patience & Emotional Support
Nursing teaches you to stay calm in high-pressure situations, and believe me, those skills are tested at home, too! Whether it’s a 3 a.m. wake-up or a grocery store meltdown, I’ve learned to respond, not react. I try to offer my children the same compassion and emotional presence I give my patients because both need to feel seen, heard, and safe.
Real-life win: Deep breaths and a gentle tone go a long way with an overwhelmed toddler. Sometimes I just give my son space until he’s ready to come for a hug, then we review the situation. And some days we just find ourselves in a staring competition when words would do more harm than good. Baby steps, but we are getting there.
3. Critical Thinking & Decision-Making
As nurses, we’re trained to assess and act quickly. That skill translates well to motherhood especially when a child is unwell. I rely on both clinical knowledge and instinct to decide when something needs a doctor’s visit and when home care will do. As much as I do not like to admit it, I have found myself in situations where I worry more about the potential severity of a situation more than what is actually happening. Most times I find my voice of reason and get ahead of potential situations before they become worse.
Encouragement: Trust your gut. You’re more capable than you think.
4. Teaching Healthy Habits Early
One of the best gifts we can give our kids is a healthy foundation. From handwashing songs to picking colorful fruits at the market. Having being raised in the village and the city, I found myself leaning to the ways of how my parents raise me and my siblings. Healthy eating habits are encouraged, but it doesn’t mean we don’t snack. Handwashing before meals, after the washroom or after playtime and brushing in the morning and before bed are some of the wins we celebrate. Nursing has shown me that prevention starts young.
Practical tip: Turn hygiene into a game, kids love visuals and routines! And let them feel like they are in control while guiding them.
5. Work-Life Balance & Self-Care
Nursing and parenting are both demanding and exhausting. I’ve learned that pouring from an empty cup doesn’t serve anyone. I make time for simple self-care practices, like a quiet cup of tea, a short nap in the afternoon when I can or 10 minutes of stretching and I don’t feel guilty for it anymore.
Reminder: A healthier, happier you makes you a better parent.
Conclusion
Being a nurse has truly enriched my parenting style giving me tools to support, protect and guide my children with intention. If you’re a fellow healthcare mom (or parent in another demanding role), I’d love to hear how your work has influenced your parenting journey.
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