Reaching Past the Wire: Questions & Discussion

Having interviewed hundreds of healthcare professionals over the years, the one thing I hear from them more than anything is their desire to care for their patients in the way they would like their family members to be treated.

It’s hard to imagine this philosophy translating to a war zone, let alone a prison in a war zone. That’s what struck me most about Deanna Germain’s book. Truly caring for people means everyone — regardless of who they are or what they may or may not have done.

One of the things that really struck me about Deanna's experiences were her role as a healer but her requirement that she carry a weapon at all times. Somehow it fascinated me that the rifle had to be discharged into a barrel of sand before entering any building. All part of safety, but what a bizarre juxtaposition for a nurse to be in -- weapon and stethoscope.

I just started reading this book and love it so far. I have never read about a nurse in the military so I was excited to look into this world. I am amazed at the conditions they worked under- I won't complain again.

I thought the book was wonderful.  A good choice for a nurse's book club.  I was moved by her difficult and dedicated effort to lift herself above any feelings of 'distaste' in caring for prisoners who may have been responsible for the death of fellow American soldiers.  The fact that she was able to remember the pledge that she took on her graduation 'to practice my profession faithfully.'   At the medical center where I work, we have a mantra: "patient first"   It's often very difficult, but it has to be done, and you are truly practicing your profession faithfully when you are able to do it.

After reading the book, I wondered how much more went on that couldn't be told due to security reasons.  The adjustment not only being sent to Abu Ghraib and all that was going on there, but the hard struggle readjusting to being home again shows what our men and women are going through that we don't always think about.  Lt. Col. Deanna Germain was truly a very couragous, compassionate nurse.