An Inside Look at Life as a Fertility Nurse
I first became interested in a career in nursing during high school when I shadowed nurses in a women’s health unit at a local hospital. I marveled at the nurses’ ability to perform their clinical responsibilities adeptly and simultaneously listen to and validate their patients’ emotions. I knew then that I, too, wanted a career that could directly benefit and affect others so greatly.
True human connection seems to get lost today as people spend more time staring at cell phones and computer screens than having in-person conversations. Social media makes it seem as if the more time one spends focusing on and improving herself, the happier she will be. My patients, however, remind me every day that happiness springs from doing good and helping others. By working with my patients during their journeys, many of which take unexpected twists and turns before reaching the final goal of creating a family, we share a mutual bond that empowers us both. Patients receive support to see their journey through to the end, regardless of the result, and their resolve fills me with energy to continue to take care of patients still working towards fulfilling their dreams.
Having practiced as a fertility nurse with RMA of New York for the past 3 years, I can attest to the fact that fertility nurses act with the most open hearts. We bring comfort, knowledge, friendship, and support to fertility patients every day. There is not a singular way to experience a fertility journey and we can anticipate patients’ needs and adapt to the type of support required at a particular moment. Patients may seek reassurance, encouragement, understanding, and laughter. Other times, they may want an objective, straightforward and direct tone from their nurse. We can embody all these forms of support to connect with our patients.
We experience this journey with our patients, cherishing and rejoicing in the news of a pregnancy and sympathizing and consoling a loss. As members of patients’ clinical support system, we encourage patients to make decisions that empower them. Their strength and commitment to building a family is remarkable and we strive to remind them of that daily.
About the Author: Ariel Schnur is a registered nurse who has worked at RMA of New York for 3 years and in women’s health for over 5 years. She received her Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Nursing from Binghamton University. There, she spent time volunteering as a doula and participated in research on maternal smoking cessation in rural areas. Ariel enjoys exploring NYC, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.