Ten seconds was all it took to move from one side of health care to the other--to shift from nurse educator to patient! And it all happened on the morning of 9/11.

I was just walking along quietly to catch the bus when the sole of one shoe grabbed the floor tile in the shopping mall and I suddenly found myself face-down in an inglorious heap on the floor. An x-ray confirmed a fractured patella and the need for surgery the next morning.

As a nurse educator, I’m aware that nurse’s attitudes to their patients make all the difference. Being in my position, it would be understandable if some nurses might worry I was assessing their technique, and this might make them nervous!

I am happy, therefore, to report that my personal experience at hospital reinforced my belief that student nurses are well prepared for moving into the RN role and "making a difference". I was, at all times, treated respectfully and competently by staff at every level; there was good evidence of teamwork and friendliness; I was well informed about my condition and surgery; and I was duly discharged home to recover.

The recovery phase was more challenging, but my personal observation is that nurses continue to nurse well--they are caring, knowledgeable and competent. I hope they will continue to maintain great pride in our wonderful profession.

Pictured- Judy Seccombe recovering at home with great grandaughter Ruby, soon after the surgery.
Interview and picture first published in Kai Tiaki Nursing New Zealand, December 2013