5 Reasons Why I Appreciate My Nurse "Work-Wife"

In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, I’ll introduce you to my work wife, Rena, NP. We’ll share stories about how we came to know each other, how we bonded and what it was like working with each other, and how our co-workership has blossomed into a friendship.

^{This content used under license from "Ask Nurse Alice."}

Being a nurse and especially during these times has been beyond challenging to say the least. We as nurses have often felt overworked, overwhelmed, unappreciated, and just worked right down to the bone. And like many nurses, most of us spend a large amount of time at work, so it’s only natural that our co-workers have become a big part of our lives, almost like a second family. And because we spend so much time with the people we work with, they can influence our lives in several ways. 

Our co-workers can unconsciously, either positively or negatively influence our morale, attitudes and beliefs, behaviors, productivity, confidence, choices, and overall quality of life. Depending on the people we work with, a 12-hour shift can go by quickly or it can drag out painfully like watching paint dry. 

As for myself, I can say that most of the people I work with have a positive influence on my life. I tend to steer clear from all the negative, nagging, and pessimistic ones because they’re draining. 

I actually began to notice that I do better and have better workdays on the days that my favorite co-workers are also at work. 

1. When I see a particular co-worker's name on the schedule, I instantly feel relieved and better about what’s in store for the shit. It's like I know that things are going to be just fine. 
2. This person is more than just a co-worker or friend – we have a special bond almost like that of family. This person has become my “work wife” (or work husband). This is a term of endearment for someone you share a special relationship with similar to the bonds one has in a marriage. This is someone who will be there through thick and thin and just gets us. 
3. This person is someone you trust, who communicates well, is supportive, they’re fun to be around, they get our jokes, know our food order, and help us get things done before we even need to ask for help. 
4. It’s as if they can read our minds, but even if not that – they know us well enough to know our body language and facial expressions to know what kind of mood we’re in, and what we’re just not going to put up with. 
5. This is also someone who’ll have your back at work, aid you in the tasks you simply just don’t want to do (e.g code browns or hard IV sticks), cover you while you’re off the floor getting coffee for the two of you, and listen to you celebrate, complain and vent about other things going on in your life.

Do you have a work wife or work husband?