The respite stays I have are not admissions in the true sense, as the idea of it is toould avert crisis or SH/SA admissions@outlander. Although it is attached to a nearby hospital which has a mental health unit.I can also call the respite centre when I am not even staying there- I usually get the head nurse- and chat about any difficulties I am having and need to talk them out. I can call anytime day or night really. Most of the regular staff know me even if I don't know them.
I could volunteer at one of the hospitals, however, I am already dealing with grief over the loss of potentially never being able to work in acute settings either temporarily or permanently. This would further compound those feelings of loss. I have discussed with my GP going back to work in the emergency department just one shift a week (about 6hours)and only looking after a scheduled mental health patient requiring one to one nursing. These patients are often a danger to themselves or others and must be watched constantly at the bedside, even if they are sleeping. So it's often not physically or mentally challenging, however, there have been many occasions patients become abusive and I have had trays and other things thrown at me. I just step away and let security deal with them, which isn't nice, but necessary.
The places where I have received good care like the respite centre I couldn't work there as they have records on me so it's a conflict of interest.
Teaching you exercises helps me remember the skills I have learnt and reinforces the fact they do work when practiced regularly. I have always liked teaching people things, be it student nurses or just anyone else. I am glad you find them benefical @outlander
