PPE — a prayer for critical care nurses

By: Debbie McElligott to her daughter, a critical care nurse

May you have all the physical, emotional & spiritual equipment you need as you start your day. May you feel the love and support of all those praying and honouring the work you do.
 
As you dress for work—take some mindful breaths—imagine breathing in from your heart center. Feel the feeling of love and gratitude for someone or something in your life & let your heart pump that feeling to every cell in your body—then send it out to your patients, team & all the world.

As you don your vestments at work:

• As you wash your hands, let the water of life cleanse and refresh you, helping you serve.

Tara (left) a L&D Nurse & Jill (right) a CCU Nurse

• May your scrubs and gown shield your body from any threats—visible and invisible.
• May your booties cover your feet as they touch the ground, feel the strength of the Earth, and connect with all those walking your path, caring for others.
• May your cap shield your brain from all stress, worry and the “What ifs”.
• May your mask allow you to breathe in all the healing energy you need & exhale anything that doesn't serve you.
• May your face shield or goggles allow clear vision for your work, meaning & purpose.
• May your gloves protect & guide those hands as you care for other.
• As you enter your patients’ room—let your heart shine through the armour, as you provide a holy, caring presence for someone in great need & know they feel it, and are comforted.
• Blessings & Love as you start your shift.

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This prayer was written by Deborah McElligott, DNP, ANP-BC, AHN-BC, HWNC-BC, CDE, Center for Wellness & Integrative Medicine, Northwell Health, on Long Island in Manhaset, New York.

This prayer was written one sleepless night right before dawn. I am an NP and Integrative Nurse Coach, and nurse for over 47 years, who has been working safely at home during this crisis doing virtual programs with my clients and staff. My daughters are both nurses. One recently fractured her pelvis skiing, but the other, a CCU nurse for over 20 years is now experiencing her CCU as one of the many COVID vented units on Long Island, NY.  I struggled with ways to support her, especially the feelings which surface the night before she returns to her 12-hour shift. This tearful reflection helped me as much as it may help others. It made me realize there is much I can do—even from a distance— with a powerful heartful connection and virtual hugs.

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