Going Above and Beyond in Patient Care
As nurses, we often face hectic schedules and countless tasks to juggle. But amidst the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day responsibilities, it's crucial to remember the human element of our profession.
Recently, I had the privilege of assisting in a different ward due to staffing shortages. While there, I encountered an elderly gentleman whose wound dressing was causing him considerable discomfort, affecting his ability to rest. Despite not considering wound dressing my strongest suit, I knew I had to step in to help.
What transpired during that interaction left a profound impact on me. As I meticulously tended to his wound, we engaged in conversation. It was during this exchange that he posed a question that stopped me in my tracks: "Why are you different from your colleagues?"
His words resonated deeply. Over his five-week stay, he had experienced care that focused primarily on the clinical aspects, lacking the personal touch and empathy he longed for.
In sharing my background, I mentioned being from Kenya, to which he reminisced about his time in the British Navy and his experiences in Kenya, highlighting the Kenyan hospitality and generosity he encountered.
His gratitude for the time I took to understand his concerns, explain his treatment, and provide compassionate care reminded me of the importance of going beyond the basics.
As nurses, we're not just providers of medication and treatments; we're companions on a patient's journey to healing. Taking a few extra moments to connect with those under our care can make all the difference in their experience.
Let's always strive to be the difference—the nurse who listens, empathises, and treats each patient with the dignity and respect they deserve.
After all, it's not just about tending to wounds; it's about tending to hearts. 💙
#nursing #healthcare #nurse #nurses #safety #compassion #linkedinnurses #care #caring
Member of the Board of Directors of Medical Aesthetic Dental Hospital
1wI believe that moment was her proudest moment. Because she could help her father. She could protect her father professionally.