Christian Science nurses, even those who have received extensive training, have found that their reliance on prayer has been the foundation of their work. Their devotion of thought and energy to training programs can be invaluable, but only when it flows out from a love for Christian Science practice. Turning consistently to God for guidance in their nursing work, they have discovered the practical and inspired wisdom needed to foster healing, as the following examples illustrate.
"I was with an expectant mother during the labor period. This was the mother's first child, and the labor had continued for some time. The doctor came to the home and, after examining the mother, said that it would be at least another eight hours before the baby would arrive, so he left again. The mother burst into tears at the thought of such a prolonged labor. I reassured her, reminding her that she did not have to accept the prediction, based as it was on various human beliefs about time. The mother called the Christian Science practitioner she had been working with for continued support. I felt strongly that I should call the doctor back, though he had already left the premises. I was able to reach him, and he returned within the hour. The baby arrived a few minutes later."
"I was attending to a dressing when the patient's wound began bleeding severely. I attempted to reach the Christian Science practitioner but without success. The usual techniques to staunch the bleeding didn't work. I began to pray. Part of a sentence from the Church Manual By-Law by Mrs. Eddy, concerning nursing came to mind: '... a Christian Science nurse shall be one who has a demonstrable knowledge of Christian Science practice ...' I knew that the sentence went on to say, '... who thoroughly understands the practical wisdom necessary in a sick room, and who can take proper care of the sick,' but I knew in this instance it was my 'knowledge of Christian Science practice' that I needed to apply at once. As I prayed, the bleeding stopped immediately."
