---
title: 'The Hidden Cost of Calling'
type: 'episode'
url: 'https://doc.social/episodes/the-hidden-cost-of-calling'
show: 'First Case'
show_url: 'https://doc.social/podcasts/first-case'
published: '2025-08-27'
audio: 'https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/firstcase/FC071_-_The_Hidden_Cost_of_Calling.mp3'
---

# The Hidden Cost of Calling

by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM

## Summary

We’ve all heard it: _“Nursing is a calling.”_ It sounds noble, but this romanticized language has a hidden price. It can normalize burnout, justify unsafe staffing, and excuse inadequate pay, all under the guise of dedication.

In this eye-opening episode, Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, challenges the “calling” narrative and makes a case for recognizing nursing as the highly skilled, indispensable profession it truly is, and one that deserves respect, fair compensation, and safe working conditions.

#operatingroom #nurse #nursing #perioperative