Loving Nurse Bae from Kuruman, Northern Cape writes…
Liewe Lulu,
My partner (23) is almost done with her qualification in nursing and is currently doing her training. She often tells me how she has 12-hour shifts at least three days a week and this puts a strain on how often we can see each other. But, it makes it special when we do meet.
My question is: what should I expect from dating someone who is at work like 70% of the time? Can this sustain me in any way? I really do love her. We have been together for almost two years. This is my first time dating a nurse. How can I make her life easier as she seems to be always stressed?
I also understand that I need to stay busy to maintain my own life, I study IT and do a few side projects. I am 26.
My dearest Loving,
It takes a special kind of person to pursue a career in nursing, so consider yourself lucky. On average, the maximum working hours for nurses can go up to 45 hours a week.
Despite the potentially hectic scheduling, one of the many benefits of dating a nurse is that the are not only a hard worker, but they will be appreciative of all the time you spend together when they are off the clock. Off-time is like gold.
With reported strains and pressure on our national healthcare system, more nurses are being spread thin than ever before. Read this report by Health For Mzansi.
Be her peace. Dating her is like dating anyone else, it just takes a little more effort. I can only imagine the toll it takes to save lives on the frontline. I think little gestures, special moments and affirmation can go a long way, because like doctors and any other medical professionals nurses know how fleeting and fragile life can be. These are three tips I have for dating your healer of a lover:
- Get creative: She is not an average human, she’s a hero with epaulets! I think any date with some coffee could potentially make you the best partner in the world. Maybe before shifts, squeeze in some time to just chat and comfort her.
- Understand boundaries: No one wants to feel disappointed by loved ones missing events. I think chatting more openly about your scheduling conflicts can help prevent misunderstandings and disagreements.
- Self-care is a need: Instead of scheduling a night out on her first day off, help her adjust back to normal life with a little self-care night in.
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ALSO READ: Liewe Lulu: ‘I’m a doctor looking for love’
Write to Liewe Lulu
Liewe Lulu is Health For Mzansi’s agony aunty. The content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical and/or psychological advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical condition.
