DiversityNursing Blog

Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are uniquely positioned to identify victims of human trafficking. Our holistic approach to patient care, coupled with the trust patients often place in us, makes us a crucial link in ending this horrific crime. However, recognizing the subtle signs of trafficking can be challenging. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge and resources to identify potential victims and provide them with a lifeline to safety.

Understanding Human Trafficking

Human trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals for profit through force, fraud, or coercion. It can take many forms, including sex trafficking, forced labor, and domestic servitude. It's a global issue that tragically exists in our own communities, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

Why Nurses are Key

We often interact with patients during vulnerable times. Traffickers may bring victims to emergency departments, clinics, or even home healthcare settings for treatment of injuries, illnesses, or routine care. These interactions can provide crucial opportunities to identify and assist victims who may be unable to seek help themselves.

Red Flags: What to Look For

While no single sign definitively indicates trafficking, a combination of certain indicators should raise suspicion. Be observant of both the patient's demeanor and physical condition, as well as the behavior of any accompanying individuals:

Patient Presentation:

• Physical Signs:
  • Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, burns, cuts, or fractures, that may be in various stages of healing.
  • Signs of malnourishment, dehydration, or poor hygiene.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
  • Fatigue, sleep deprivation, or anxiety.
  • Evidence of forced medical procedures or denial of care.
• Behavioral Signs:
  • Appears fearful, anxious, or submissive.
  • Avoids eye contact or direct communication.
  • Seems coached or hesitant to answer questions independently.
  • Unable to provide their own identification or personal information.
  • Inconsistent or vague explanations of injuries or illnesses.
  • Restricted communication with family or friends.
  • Fear of law enforcement or authority figures.
• Lack of Control:
  • Limited access to their own money or belongings.
  • No freedom of movement or decision-making.

Accompanying Individual's Behavior:

• Speaks for the patient and is unwilling to leave them alone.
• Shows controlling or overly concerned behavior.
• Is reluctant to provide their own information or identification.
• Answers questions directed at the patient.
• Seems to profit from the patient's medical visit.

What to Do If You Suspect Trafficking

If you suspect trafficking, your immediate priority is the patient's safety. Follow your facility's specific protocols for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. Here's a more detailed breakdown of what to do:

Initial Steps & Immediate Actions

• Create a Safe Space: Your primary goal is to get the patient alone, away from the potential trafficker. This can be challenging in an emergency department, but it's crucial. You might say, "I need to do a private exam" or "I need to discuss some sensitive information with the patient." Be creative and firm, but not confrontational.
• Use a Trauma-Informed Approach: The patient is likely terrified, and they may not see you as a safe person. Approach them with empathy and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions in a gentle tone, such as "Are you feeling safe at home?" or "Is there anything you want to tell me that you can't right now?"
• Look for Cues: Since the patient may be unable to speak freely, look for nonverbal cues. You can write down a simple question like, "Are you in danger?" on a piece of paper and hand it to them, or even use a simple yes/no response system with a nod or a blink.

Documentation & Reporting

• Document Thoroughly: Your documentation is a legal record and can be critical for any future investigation. Document everything you observe, not just what the patient says. Include details about their physical condition, their demeanor, the behavior of the accompanying individual, and any statements made by either party. Be objective and factual. Use direct quotes whenever possible, for example, "Patient stated, 'I'm not allowed to be alone.'"
• Follow Facility Protocol: Every healthcare institution has a protocol for handling suspected abuse. This typically involves notifying a supervisor, a social worker, or a patient advocate. Your facility's protocol is your roadmap—stick to it.

You can also contact the following resources for guidance and support:

• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733. This hotline is available 24/7 and provides confidential support and resources for victims and those who suspect trafficking. Link to National Human Trafficking Hotline
• Polaris Project: This organization works to end human trafficking and provides resources for victims and professionals. Link to Polaris Project
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF): Offers resources and information on human trafficking. Link to HHS Anti-Trafficking Website

Education and Awareness

Staying informed is our collective responsibility. Advocate for ongoing training within your healthcare system on human trafficking recognition and response. By increasing our awareness and understanding, we can collectively become a powerful force in identifying and supporting victims of this heinous crime.

As Nurses, we are advocates for our patients' well-being. By learning to see the unseen signs of human trafficking, we can offer a beacon of hope and help pave the way for their freedom and recovery.

In Nursing, there are moments when the clock seems to slow down, not because the shift is quiet, but because the weight of the situation demands your full presence. Whether it’s holding a patient’s hand before a major surgery or being the first face they see after hearing life-altering news, these are the moments when trust is not just helpful, it’s essential.

The bond between a Nurse and patient isn’t built in grand gestures. It’s formed through small, intentional acts that convey, I’m here for you. And often, these acts happen during some of the hardest moments in a patient’s life.

Why Trust Matters Most in Crisis

When a patient is facing fear, pain, or uncertainty, trust becomes the bridge between their vulnerability and your care. In these moments, clinical skills alone are not enough. Compassion, honesty, and presence can calm anxieties and make patients feel safe enough to let you in.

For example, during an emergency trauma admission, you might not have the luxury of a long conversation, but you can look the patient in the eyes, introduce yourself clearly, and explain every step you’re taking. That simple act communicates: You’re not alone, and I will guide you through this.

Real-Life Moments That Build the Bond

The Pre-Op Promise

One Nurse recalls caring for a young woman about to undergo open-heart surgery. The patient’s hands were shaking as she signed her consent form. The Nurse pulled up a chair, sat at eye level, and said, “I’ll be here when you wake up.” Hours later, when the patient opened her eyes in recovery, that same Nurse was standing right beside her. The relief on her face said everything, trust had been earned.

Staying Present in Loss

Another Nurse shared her experience with a family in the ICU whose loved one wasn’t going to make it. She didn’t have the right words, there are no perfect words, but she stayed in the room, adjusting blankets, offering tissues, and answering questions gently. Sometimes, trust isn’t about fixing the unfixable. It’s about being the steady presence when the world is falling apart.

Respecting Patient Fears

A Pediatric Nurse remembers a little boy who was terrified of needles. Instead of rushing, she knelt beside him, let him “give her a shot” with a toy syringe, and explained step-by-step what she was going to do. When it came time for the real injection, he squeezed her hand and said, “Okay, I'm ready.” That trust turned a moment of fear into a moment of bravery.

Practical Ways to Build Trust During Hard Times

• Be transparent – Even when the news is difficult, honesty fosters trust. Patients can sense when information is being withheld.

• Use their name – It’s a small thing, but it helps patients feel seen as a person, not a room number.

• Explain what you’re doing, even if it seems obvious – Especially in emergencies, a calm, clear voice can anchor a patient in chaos.

• Honor their dignity – Knock before entering, provide privacy, and respect personal boundaries.

• Show up when you say you will – Consistency builds reliability, which builds trust.

The Lasting Impact

Nurses may not remember every patient, but patients often remember their Nurses, especially the ones who showed compassion during their hardest days. The trust you build in those moments can be a source of comfort long after the hospital stay ends.

In the end, the nurse-patient bond isn’t just about care plans and medication schedules. It’s about creating a human connection strong enough to hold someone together when their world feels like it’s falling apart. And for Nurses, that’s both the privilege and the heart of the job.

As the calendar turns towards May, a special week shines a spotlight on the very heart and soul of healthcare: our Nurses. National Nurses Week, celebrated each year from May 6th to May 12th, is not merely a marked period on the healthcare calendar; it is a precious opportunity to pause, reflect, and deeply cherish the unwavering dedication, boundless compassion, and exceptional skills Nurses bring into our lives every single day.

Think about it. In moments of vulnerability, fear, and uncertainty, it is often a Nurse who stands by our side. They are the calm in the storm, the knowledgeable guide through complex medical journeys, and the comforting presence offering solace and hope. From the first breath of a newborn to the peaceful passing of a loved one, Nurses are there, providing not just medical care, but a profound level of human connection.

Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern Nursing, famously said, "Nursing is an art; and if it is to be made an art, it requires an exclusive devotion as hard a preparation, as any painter's or sculptor's work." This quote, though spoken centuries ago, still resonates deeply today. Nursing is far more than a job; it's a calling that demands immense knowledge, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of others.   

Consider these facts:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes Nurses as making the largest contribution to health globally.
• For the 23rd consecutive year, Nurses have been named the most trusted profession in America, according to a Gallup poll released in 2025.
  
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in employment for Registered Nurses from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Beyond the vital medical tasks they perform, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, educating patients and families, Nurses offer something immeasurable: empathy. They see beyond the diagnosis, recognizing the individual human being behind the illness. They listen to fears, answer countless questions with patience, and offer a reassuring touch when it's needed most.

As Val Saintsbury aptly stated, "Nurses dispense comfort, compassion, and caring without even a prescription." This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the essence of Nursing. It's about the human connection, the ability to provide holistic care that addresses not just the physical needs but also the emotional and psychological well-being of their patients.

National Nurses Week serves as a vital reminder for all of us, patients, families, healthcare administrators, and the wider community, to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Nurses. It's a time to say thank you for the long hours, the emotional toll, the sacrifices made, and the unwavering commitment to providing the best possible care.

This year, let's take a moment to truly appreciate the Nurses in our lives. Let's recognize their expertise, their empathy, and their tireless dedication. They are the backbone of our healthcare system, the compassionate caregivers who make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals every day. Let us honor them, not just this week, but always. They are, without a doubt, the heartbeat of healthcare.

Every Nurse knows that a well-stocked bag can be the difference between a smooth shift and a chaotic one. While hospitals and clinics provide the basics, seasoned Nurses carry their own arsenal of essentials to ensure they’re ready for anything. We asked Nurses from various specialties to share what’s always in their bags. Here’s what they said:

The Must-Haves

Stethoscope – This is a given, but many Nurses opt for high-quality brands like Littmann for better acoustics. Some even carry a backup in case theirs goes missing.

Penlight – For neuro checks, pupil assessments, or just trying to find something in a dimly lit supply room.

Scissors and Hemostats – Trauma Nurses swear by their bandage scissors, while OR Nurses keep hemostats handy for a variety of quick fixes.

Pens (Lots of Them!) – Black ink is standard for charting, but colorful pens help highlight important notes. One Nurse admitted she carries extras just to lend out (because they never come back!).

Sharpies and Dry-Erase Markers – For labeling IV bags, patient belongings, or whiteboards in patient rooms.

Notepad or Pocket Notebook – Essential for jotting down patient details, reminders, or that elusive password.

Personal Survival Kit

Hand Sanitizer and Alcohol Swabs – “I use these more for myself than for patients,” one Nurse joked. The hospital might stock them, but it’s never enough.

Lip Balm and Lotion – Constant handwashing takes a toll. Most Nurses keep a small bottle of lotion and a reliable lip balm within reach.

Snacks – Energy bars, nuts, or protein-packed snacks keep Nurses fueled through long shifts when meals are a luxury.

Water Bottle or Coffee Tumbler – Hydration is key, and caffeine is survival. Many Nurses keep a reusable bottle to stay energized throughout the shift.

Compression Socks – Not in the bag, but definitely on the feet. Many Nurses stash an extra pair in case they need a fresh set.

Hair Ties and Headbands – “If I forget a hair tie, my shift is ruined,” one Nurse admitted.

Tech and Extras

Watch with a Second Hand – Vital for counting respirations or checking pulses when digital monitors aren’t available.

Portable Phone Charger – Some hospitals have limited charging stations, so a power bank lets Nurses stay connected in case of an emergency.

Reference Cards or Apps – Quick drug calculations, EKG interpretations, or lab values. Having a pocket guide or phone app can be a lifesaver.

Extra Scrubs or Socks – For those unfortunate moments when bodily fluids end up where they shouldn’t.

Personal Items

Essential Oils or Menthol Rub – A dab under the nose helps mask unpleasant smells in certain patient care situations.

Tampons and Pads – Even if you don’t need them, a coworker might.

Small First Aid Kit – “We care for patients, but sometimes we need a Band-Aid too,” one Nurse pointed out.

Mini Deodorant or Body Spray – A quick refresh between back-to-back patient rounds.

Final Thoughts

No two Nurses pack exactly the same bag, but the goal is always preparedness. Whether it’s a lifesaving tool, a time-saving hack, or a personal comfort item, these essentials help Nurses navigate the challenges of every shift.

What’s in YOUR bag? Share your must-haves in the comments!

Source: https://bhw.hrsa.gov/data-research/access-data-tools/national-sample-survey-registered-nurses

May is mental health awareness month, a time to raise awareness and promote education about mental health, as well as reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Did you know, 1 in 5 American adults experience a mental health condition in a given year?

• Get enough sleep: Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep.
• Eat a healthy diet: Make sure to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
• Exercise regularly: Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Take breaks: Take short breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge.
• Practice mindfulness: Try incorporating mindfulness exercises into your daily routine, such as deep breathing or meditation.
• Connect with colleagues: Connect with colleagues who understand the challenges of being a Nurse. You can talk to them about work-related stress and share coping strategies.
• Seek professional help: If you're struggling with your mental health, seek professional help from a mental health provider. This can be a therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist.
• Use employee assistance programs: Many healthcare organizations offer employee assistance programs that provide confidential counseling and support services.
• Set boundaries: It's important to set boundaries and say no to additional responsibilities if you're feeling overwhelmed.
• Pursue hobbies and interests: Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as reading, listening to music, or practicing a hobby.
• Take care of your physical appearance: Dress in clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident, and take pride in your appearance.
• Practice gratitude: Take time each day to reflect on what you're grateful for, whether it's a supportive colleague, a successful patient outcome, or simply the beauty of nature.

Resources

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many hospitals and healthcare facilities offer EAPs that provide free, confidential counseling services to employees.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI offers support groups, educational resources, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA offers a national helpline, treatment referral service, and resources for mental health and substance abuse disorders.
• Crisis Text Line: This free, 24/7 text messaging service provides support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Text "HOME" to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• Mindfulness apps: Apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises to help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.

Remember, self-care is an ongoing process, and it's important to make it a priority in your life. By taking care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to care for your patients and thrive in your career as a Nurse.

Healthcare should be accessible to everyone regardless of socioeconomic status, age, gender, race, or ethnicity. Unfortunately, many people across the nation struggle to access affordable and reliable healthcare. Health equity can only be achieved when every person, regardless of the situation, has a fair and equal opportunity to be as healthy as possible.

Many factors can influence health equity, including health disparities, social determinants of health, and cultural competence. Therefore, Nurses must understand these concepts strongly to identify health inequalities and implement changes so our patients can achieve optimal health.

Health Disparities

Unfortunately, health disparities in the United States are more common than you may realize. Health disparities are any barriers that limit a person's access to quality medical care. Population groups most affected by health disparities include ethnic minorities, immigrants, and low-income families. Common barriers that people may experience include socioeconomic status, geological location, sexual identity or orientation, ethnicity, race, age, or disability.

Health disparities can look different for everyone. For example, some people may live in rural areas where they cannot easily access routine health exams. Others may need help understanding health recommendations due to language barriers. Whatever the disadvantage, health disparities can lead to poor health outcomes that negatively contribute to health equity.  

Nurses have a unique advantage in identifying health disparities and implementing changes so that more people can access care. There are many ways Nurses can implement change, including:

• Supporting telehealth and mobile health units so people in rural areas can access medical services
• Ensuring patients have access to interpreter services so they fully understand medical recommendations
• Creating community health projects so those in under-educated populations can better access health education.

Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

Social determinants of health can often be confused with health disparities. Although similar, SDOH refers to an individual's personal circumstances apart from medical care and genetics that can affect health outcomes.

Social determinants of health fall into 5 groups that define how people are born, grow, work, live, and age. These groups are interwoven, causing them all to overlap and relate to each other. The five groups include healthcare, economic stability, education, social life, and neighborhood.

• Healthcare encompasses a person's access and quality of medical care, including access to primary care services, health insurance coverage, and understanding of health literacy.
• Economic stability is the connection between finances and access to healthcare. Employment, poverty, food, and housing security can all affect economic stability and access to healthcare.
• Education focuses on the link between access to quality education and how it relates to health. People who do not have access to secondary or higher education may not have the necessary language and literacy to understand medical needs and care.
• Social life has contributed to learned behaviors around healthcare access. How people live, work, play, and learn within their communities can change how people feel about medical care.
• The neighborhood considers how a person's quality of housing, transportation, access to healthy foods and clean water, as well as exposure to crime and violence play a role in a person's health.

Nurses play a significant role in addressing social determinants of health. You can promote health equity by getting involved in public policies and decision making. Advocating for better care can help prevent illness in underserved populations and improve health equity for all.

Cultural Competence

A strong understanding of cultural competency is essential to achieve health equity. Cultural competency is when healthcare providers provide effective healthcare, even if there may be cultural differences between the provider and the patient.

Nurses can become more culturally competent by learning to engage with a wide range of patients with different cultural, religious, and societal backgrounds. Nurses can show cultural competency by speaking to patients in language and terms they understand or by respecting a patient's cultural or religious values or beliefs.

As a Nurse, providing culturally competent Nursing care can break down communication barriers and improve the health outcomes of our patients.

To better serve our communities, Nurses must be able to identify inequalities in healthcare and implement the necessary changes to improve patient experiences and outcomes. Nurses have a unique position on the frontlines of healthcare to positively improve health equity by helping to provide effective and accessible medical care to all.

There is a growing need for more Nurse Educators to address the current shortage of Nurses and ensure the future generations of Nurses are well-trained and prepared to provide quality care.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Employment Projections 2021-2031, the Registered Nursing (RN) workforce is expected to grow by 6% over the next decade. The RN workforce is expected to grow from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2031, an increase of 195,400 Nurses. The Bureau also projects 203,200 openings for RNs each year through 2031 when Nurse retirements and workforce exits are factored into the number of Nurses needed in the U.S.
 
The Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) workforce, including Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Anesthetists, and Nurse Midwives, is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupation, by 40% from 2021 through 2031, according to the BLS’ Occupational Outlook Handbook. Approximately 30,200 new APRNs, which are prepared in master’s and doctoral programs, will be needed each year through 2031 to meet the rising demand for care.

Nurse Educators play a vital role in the education and training of Nursing students and are responsible for developing and delivering curriculum, designing and implementing clinical experiences, and evaluating student progress.

The shortage of Nurse Educators at Nursing schools across the country are limiting student capacity at a time when the need for Nurses continues to grow.

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), budget constraints, an aging faculty, and increasing job competition from clinical sites have contributed to this crisis.

However, increasing the number of Nurse Educators is critical to addressing the Nursing shortage and ensuring that there are enough qualified Nurses to meet the needs of patients. 

There are several strategies that can be implemented to increase the number of Nurse Educators:

Increase Funding

Providing increased funding for Nursing education programs can help schools hire additional faculty and offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.

It's recommended, Congress pass legislation that would invest in Nursing faculty, clinical placements, and Nursing program facilities so that colleges and universities have the resources to enroll and graduate more students. 

Tuition Forgiveness

Providing tuition forgiveness or loan repayment programs for Nurses who pursue advanced degrees in Nursing education can help incentivize Nurses to become Educators. Learn more about loan forgiveness or loan repayment programs here. 

Mentorship Programs

Providing mentorship programs to support new Nurse Educators can help with their retention and success in the field. These programs are meant to encourage mutual professional growth between both the mentor and the mentee through a dynamic and supportive relationship.

Flexible Scheduling

People everywhere are demanding a shift toward work-life balance. Healthcare professionals are constantly working long hours, with little to no flexibility in their schedules. Offering flexible scheduling options can help attract individuals who may be interested in teaching but have other commitments, such as family or outside work.

Professional Development

Nurse Educators are tasked with nurturing the growth and education of Nurses, but they also need opportunities for growth and development. Offering opportunities for ongoing professional development, such as attending conferences or pursuing advanced degrees, can help keep Nurse Educators up-to-date on the latest Nursing practices and research.

Collaborations with Healthcare Facilities

Partnerships between Nursing schools and healthcare facilities can help provide clinical experiences for Nursing students and provide opportunities for Nurses to transition into teaching roles.

Katie Boston-Leary, PhD, RN, Director of Nursing programs at the American Nurses Association, told Becker's Hospital Review, she views it as "building a bridge" between schools and hospitals to train Nurses in real-world healthcare situations. Additionally, she said, growing an in-house team of Nurse Educators provides a pipeline for hospitals who can be actively involved in cultivating their own future workforces.

By implementing these strategies, Nursing schools and healthcare organizations can work together to address the shortage of Nurse Educators and make sure future generations of Nurses receive the education and training they need to provide high-quality patient care.

Many people look forward to the holidays, however it can be a stressful time for Nurses working through the holiday season and missing festivities. Here are several tips to help make working through the holidays a little brighter.

Holiday Feast

Take time during a shift to fuel up with some yummy foods. Have everyone bring in their favorite meal or side dish, holiday treat, or order some take out. 

Work Fun

Organize a secret Santa with your unit or you may also consider planning a holiday party outside of your work setting. It’s nice to take the time out to blow off steam and enjoy your co-workers’ company. 

Decorate

With permission from your manager, decorate your work station, the hallways or even yourself with some holiday swag. Hang up paper pumpkins and turkeys. String twinkle lights and set up a holiday tree. Just be sure to be sensitive and inclusive of everyone’s holidays, not just your own. 

Celebrate On A Different Day

If you can't celebrate a holiday on the actual date, pick another day that works for your family or friends. Being with the people you love is what's important, no matter the date. 

Spread Holiday Cheer

This season is all about giving and as you know, giving makes you feel good. Try giving small gifts like scented hand sanitizers, cards, or decorative trinkets to your coworkers. Brighten patient's day with a note, little ornament, or holiday craft. 

Stay Connected

Make the most of your breaks during your shift. If able, FaceTime or Zoom with friends and family, follow their posts on social media, or ask someone to share videos of the holiday gatherings with you. Utilize available technology to stay as connected as possible. 

Silver Lining

Focus on the bright side, there may be benefits to working a holiday shift, such as extra pay or the next holiday off. You may also, hopefully, get to enjoy a slower work pace or less traffic during your commute.

Remember You're Important

Healthcare will always be 24/7 and someone must be there to care for patients. You're saving and changing lives by showing up to work. During the holidays that care can mean the world to a patient especially if their family or friends aren't able to visit or stay long. What you do as a Nurse is so important, don't you forget it! 

Across the entire patient experience, Nurses have a hand in almost every aspect of the patient's healthcare journey. Nurses are compassionate, and dedicated, and work tirelessly to meet the needs of their patients. Because Nurses are at the forefront of every patient interaction, there are many things that we wish our patients knew and understood about how we work and handle our everyday tasks.  

Every Patient is a Priority, but You May Have to Wait 

Nursing is a busy and fast-paced profession. Our days are jam-packed with patient care tasks, documentation, and care coordination. More often than not, it can be challenging to find time to eat, drink water, or even use the bathroom during our shifts. We hate having to make our patients wait for things they may want or need, but sometimes we wish our patients understood that we take great consideration in prioritizing our patient's needs. So, if you are asked to wait or have been waiting for something longer than you think you should have, please understand that your Nurse may have a more pressing matter to attend to, and every patient deserves our complete attention. 

Nurses are People Too 

Nurses often sacrifice their personal needs to care for their patients. As mentioned earlier, we often forgo meals and bathroom breaks to ensure we can complete all our tasks and care for your needs. Nursing can often be a thankless job. Nurses understand that you want the best quality care, and we strive to provide that to every one of our patients. Patience, understanding, and respect are all that we ask for in return. 

We Care More Than You Think We Do 

Nurses are multitaskers. At any given time, we can be juggling more tasks than you may even realize. Sometimes Nurses may come off as flustered or in a hurry, but that does not mean we do not value your wants or needs. Nurses stay late and come in on their days off to ensure their patients receive excellent care. We even think about you long after we've met because you have touched our lives. Patients are what make the Nursing profession so rewarding. We do what we do for you. 

We May Not Know Everything

We encourage our patients to ask questions, but that does not mean we have all the answers. Sometimes we may need to find the answer for you by speaking to a Doctor or collaborating with other Nurses. This does not mean we do not know what we are doing. It simply means that every patient has a different healthcare journey, and often situations arise that we may not have experience with. Our top priority is that you receive the best quality care, so if you ask a question and we do not know the answer, please rest assured that we will do everything within our power to get you the information you are looking for. 

We Do Not Judge  

Nurses do not do their jobs to judge our patients. Please always be honest when answering questions or providing your health history. Withholding information because you may be embarrassed or may not think it relevant can significantly impact the care we can provide. We care about you and want to ensure that you are cared for in the best possible way. Nurses are also prepared to take care of all your personal needs. We do not mind doing ‘gross’ or ‘embarrassing’ tasks. You do not have to say sorry for natural bodily functions. We understand and are ok with it, I promise!

The Nursing profession is a delicate blend of knowledge, compassion, and critical thinking. We strive every day to make a positive impact on the lives of our patients. A strong Nurse-patient relationship improves your healthcare experience and helps us provide you with the best quality care.