DiversityNursing Blog

Becoming a Nurse is a rewarding yet challenging career path. It’s a calling filled with moments of joy, frustration, and constant learning. While Nursing school does its best to prepare you, there are many things you can only learn through experience. If you’re considering a career in Nursing or are just starting out, here are some things I wish I had known before stepping into this field.

Nursing Is Emotionally Demanding

I expected the physical demands of Nursing, but the emotional aspect took me by surprise. You will deal with loss, grieving families, and patients facing their worst moments. It’s essential to develop emotional resilience. However, it’s okay to feel vulnerable. Seeking support from colleagues, friends, or a therapist is not a sign of weakness; it's a necessary part of self-care in this profession.

You Can’t Do Everything on Your Own

In Nursing school, you're often focused on individual performance. But real-life Nursing is a team effort. You rely heavily on your colleagues, from Physicians to support staff. Learning to delegate and communicate effectively is key. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it—it’s better for the patient and for you.

Time Management Will Make or Break Your Shift

One of the biggest challenges Nurses face is managing time effectively. You might have 10 things that need to get done at once, but prioritizing tasks is critical. As a new Nurse, it took me time to learn how to organize my day, manage interruptions, and still provide quality care. I wish I practiced more strategies for time management early on—like clustering care tasks, minimizing distractions, and always having a plan, but being ready to adapt when emergencies happen.

You Will Make Mistakes—And That’s Okay

No matter how well-prepared you are, mistakes happen. The key is to learn from them and not let them define you. I vividly remember the first time I made an error with medication. I was devastated, but I quickly realized mistakes are part of the learning process. The important thing is to be transparent, own your error, and take immediate steps to ensure patient safety.

Your Feet Will Hurt!

Standing, walking, running between patient rooms—it’s a constant physical strain. Invest in high-quality shoes and compression socks early on. I didn’t, and trust me, my feet paid the price. Also, take breaks when you can, stretch, and stay hydrated. Nursing is a marathon, not a sprint.

Documentation Is an Art Form

One of the biggest adjustments after Nursing school is realizing how much time you’ll spend documenting patient care. At first, charting can seem overwhelming. But it’s vital for patient safety, legal protection, and continuity of care. I learned to chart in real-time as much as possible and to focus on key points—clear, concise, and accurate. The more efficiently you chart, the more time you’ll have to actually care for patients.

You Will Be an Advocate

One thing I didn’t fully grasp before becoming a Nurse is how much advocacy is a part of the role. You’re the patient's voice when they can’t speak for themselves. Whether it’s questioning a medication order, ensuring they understand their discharge instructions, or communicating their needs to the care team, advocacy is an integral part of Nursing. It can be intimidating, but it’s necessary to ensure patients receive the best care.

It’s Okay to Not Know Everything

As a new Nurse, I felt an immense pressure to know all the answers. The reality is, you won’t. Medicine is always evolving, and each patient presents a unique case. It’s important to stay curious, ask questions, and continue learning. Experienced Nurses are a wealth of knowledge—tap into their experience and never be afraid to admit when you don’t know something.

Work-Life Balance Can Be Tough

Shift work, long hours, and the emotional toll can make it difficult to find a good work-life balance. I’ve learned it’s crucial to set boundaries. Taking time off, engaging in hobbies, and connecting with loved ones helps prevent burnout. Nursing is demanding, but your personal well-being matters just as much as your professional responsibilities.

Nursing Is Incredibly Fulfilling

Despite all the challenges, Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers out there. The satisfaction of helping others through some of their most difficult times is unparalleled. You’ll build relationships with patients, witness recovery, and be a part of life-changing moments. No 2 days are the same, and the work you do genuinely makes a difference.

Nursing is not for the faint of heart, but if you have the passion for it, it will be one of the most fulfilling journeys of your life. These lessons are ones I wish I had known early on, but they’ve shaped me into the Nurse I am today. Remember, it's okay to grow, to ask for help, and to learn along the way. If you can embrace the challenges, you’ll find that Nursing is not just a career—it’s a calling.

Nursing is a profession enveloped in myths and misconceptions. Despite being one of the most respected careers, many misunderstandings persist about what Nurses do, their level of expertise, and the nature of their work. As a Nursing Career and Information website, we want to clear up some of these common myths and shed light on the realities of the profession.

Nurses Are Just Doctors' Assistants

One of the most widespread myths is Nurses are merely assistants to Doctors, following orders without their own critical thinking. In reality, Nurses are highly trained professionals who provide independent patient care. They assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, and educate patients and their families. While they collaborate with Doctors, their role is distinct and autonomous, often involving complex decision-making and specialized skills.

Nursing Is a Profession For Women

The stereotype that Nursing is a career for Women is outdated and inaccurate. While the profession has historically been dominated by Women, Men have always been a part of Nursing. Today, the number of male Nurses is steadily increasing, bringing diversity and challenging gender norms within the field. Nursing is for anyone with a passion for healthcare and patient advocacy, regardless of gender.

Nurses Only Work in Hospitals

When people think of Nurses, they often picture hospital settings. However, Nurses work in a variety of environments, including schools, community health centers, research labs, corporate offices, and even patients' homes. They play crucial roles in public health, policy-making, education, and beyond. The versatility of Nursing means there are opportunities in countless settings.

All Nurses Do the Same Thing

Nursing is a diverse field with numerous specialties. From Pediatrics to Geriatrics, Oncology to Critical Care, each Nursing specialty requires specific knowledge and skills. Advanced Practice Nurses, such as Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs), hold advanced degrees and provide specialized care, often similar to that of Physicians. The scope of Nursing specialties offers varied and fulfilling career paths.

Nurses Are Always Caring and Compassionate

Nursing is a profession that demands a unique blend of qualities, beyond just empathy and compassion. It requires resilience to navigate challenging situations, critical thinking to make quick decisions, and technical expertise to provide high-quality care. Nurses are not just caretakers; they are healthcare professionals who juggle multiple responsibilities, from managing complex medical conditions to advocating for their patients' needs.

Working under significant stress is a reality for many Nurses, yet they continue to show dedication and determination in providing the best possible care. The stereotype of the always-smiling, endlessly patient Nurse overlooks the depth and complexity of the profession, where Nurses are skilled professionals who make a difference in the lives of their patients every day.

Nursing Is Easier Than Being a Doctor

Nursing and medicine are distinct professions with their own challenges and demands. Nursing requires rigorous education, including anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care. Many Nurses pursue advanced degrees and certifications to specialize further. The emotional and physical demands of Nursing are significant, and the notion that it is an "easier" path undermines the dedication and expertise required.

Nursing is a dynamic and evolving profession that goes beyond the outdated stereotypes. Nurses are integral to the healthcare system, providing expert, compassionate care across diverse settings. By debunking these myths, we can better appreciate the complexity and significance of the Nursing profession. Whether you're considering a career in Nursing or simply want to understand it better, it's important to recognize and respect the critical role Nurses play in healthcare.

Within the vast world of healthcare, Nurses serve as beacons of compassion, knowledge, and strength.They are the unsung heroes, the caregivers who hold the hands of the sick, the healers who bring comfort in times of distress. Nursing is not merely a profession; it's a calling, a commitment to serve humanity with unwavering dedication. In this article, we explore the profound reasons why Nursing is not just a career choice but a way of life.

Making a Difference Every Day

Every day a Nurse brings the opportunity to create a meaningful impact in someone's life. Whether it involves administering medication, providing comfort to a distressed patient, or advocating for their needs, Nurses play a crucial role in the healing journey. The gratitude in a patient's eyes, the sigh of relief from a worried family member - these moments reinforce the significant influence Nurses have on the lives of the people in their care.

Opportunities for Growth

The field of Nursing is a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Such as, delving into specialized areas like Pediatrics and Oncology or taking on roles in education, research, and administration. Nurses have the freedom to carve out diverse career paths tailored to their passions and ambitions. The essence of continuous learning is deeply ingrained in Nursing, with avenues for pursuing advanced degrees, certifications, and specialized training readily accessible. 

Building Meaningful Connections

At the heart of Nursing lies the art of building meaningful connections with patients and their loved ones. Nurses often find themselves in intimate moments, offering not just medical care, but also emotional support and empathy. These connections foster trust, compassion, and understanding, creating a therapeutic environment essential for healing and recovery. Nurses also forge deep connections with their colleagues, forming a strong network of support and camaraderie that enhances teamwork and collaboration.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

In the world of Nursing, Diversity isn't just welcomed - it's celebrated with open arms. Nurses have the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life, embracing cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic differences. This Diversity enriches the Nursing profession, providing a deeper understanding of global health disparities and the unique needs of diverse populations. As advocates for health equity, Nurses play a crucial role in addressing disparities and promoting inclusive healthcare practices.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Despite the challenges that come with the territory, such as enduring long hours and navigating emotionally taxing situations, it is during these very moments of adversity the true essence of Nursing radiates most brightly. Nurses showcase unparalleled resilience, standing unwavering in the face of obstacles, and persisting with a blend of grace and fortitude that sets them apart. This resilience forms the core of Nursing, serving as a guiding light that inspires others to walk in their footsteps.

A Lifelong Journey of Learning and Discovery

In the world of Nursing, the journey of learning is an endless exploration, a continuous quest for knowledge and growth. From keeping up with the latest advancements in healthcare to perfecting clinical skills and sharpening critical thinking abilities, Nurses embrace a lifelong commitment to mastering their profession. Each interaction with a patient offers a chance to expand knowledge, deepen empathy, and enhance practice, making every day a new opportunity for discovery and personal development.

Being a Nurse is more than just a job—it's a privilege, a profound journey of service, compassion, and growth. It's about touching lives, making a difference, and leaving a lasting mark on the world. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, the rewards of Nursing are immeasurable. So, to all the Nurses out there, thank you for your unwavering dedication, your boundless compassion, and your tireless commitment to healing. You are the heartbeat of healthcare, and the world is a better place because of you.

A fulfilling Nursing career is often characterized by a combination of personal satisfaction, professional growth, and a positive impact on patients and the healthcare system. It is a profession that requires dedication, empathy, and a genuine passion for patient care. Nurses who find joy in helping patients, improving their health, and providing emotional support tend to be more satisfied in their roles.

Here are some key elements that can contribute to a fulfilling Nursing career:

Passion for Patient Care: A genuine passion for caring for others is at the core of a fulfilling Nursing career. This passion drives Nurses to go above and beyond their duties, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and compassionate care. It is this dedication and genuine concern for the well-being of patients that sets exceptional Nurses apart. Whether it's comforting a frightened patient, advocating for their needs, or simply lending a listening ear, Nurses with a true passion for patient care create a nurturing environment that promotes healing and instills trust. Their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on patients' lives not only brings fulfillment to their own careers but also enhances the overall quality of healthcare delivery. With every interaction, these passionate Nurses strive to make a difference and leave a lasting impression on the lives of those they care for.

Continuous Learning and Professional Development: As the field of healthcare continues to evolve, it is crucial for Nurses to stay up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and continuously seek opportunities for growth and learning. By doing so, Nurses not only enhance their knowledge and skills but also find greater satisfaction in their careers.

One way Nurses can engage in continuous learning is by pursuing advanced degrees or certifications. These educational opportunities allow Nurses to deepen their understanding of specific areas and can open doors to new career paths and opportunities. Whether it's obtaining a master's degree in a specialized field like Gerontology or pursuing a certification in a specific area of practice, further education can provide Nurses with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in their roles.

Moreover, continuous learning fosters a sense of professional growth and personal fulfillment. It allows Nurses to challenge themselves, expand their horizons, and push the boundaries of their capabilities. By constantly seeking new knowledge and skills, Nurses can feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. They can also experience increased job satisfaction as they witness the positive impact their continuous learning has on patient care.

Variety of Career Paths: Nursing offers a wide range of career paths, from bedside Nursing to research, education, administration, specialized roles, and even entrepreneurship. The beauty of Nursing is that it provides diverse opportunities to explore and find their true calling within the field.

Finding a niche that aligns with their interests and skills can make a Nursing career more rewarding. It allows Nurses to find fulfillment in their work while making a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. Whether they choose a traditional career path or venture into less conventional roles, the possibilities within Nursing are vast and exciting.

Strong Support System: A supportive work environment and colleagues can significantly impact job satisfaction. Collaborative teams and mentors can help Nurses navigate challenges, promote a sense of belonging, and foster professional growth.

In a supportive work environment, Nurses have the opportunity to collaborate with their colleagues and form strong, cohesive teams. This teamwork not only improves patient care but also creates a sense of camaraderie and support. When Nurses feel supported by their colleagues, they are more likely to feel valued and appreciated, leading to increased job satisfaction.

Mentors also play a crucial role in career development. Having a mentor who can provide guidance, advice, and support can be invaluable. Mentors can help navigate the challenges Nurses face in their roles, offer encouragement during difficult times, and provide insights and knowledge based on their own experiences. By having a Mentor, Nurses can develop professionally and gain the confidence they need to excel in their careers.

Additionally, a strong support system can contribute to a Nurse's overall well-being. Nursing can be a demanding and emotionally taxing profession, and having colleagues and mentors who understand and empathize with the challenges Nurses face can be incredibly beneficial. They can provide a listening ear, offer emotional support, and help Nurses manage stress and prevent burnout. Nurses who feel supported in their work environment are more likely to experience a healthy work-life balance and overall job satisfaction.

Work-Life Balance: Achieving a healthy work-life balance is crucial for long-term career satisfaction. Nursing can be demanding, but it's essential to prioritize self-care and manage stress to prevent burnout.

Finding time for self-care and relaxation is necessary in preventing burnout and maintaining a sense of fulfillment. Nurses should prioritize activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies. Taking regular breaks and time off is also vital to recharge and replenish energy levels. By consciously making time for themselves, Nurses can prevent exhaustion and maintain their passion and enthusiasm for patient care.

A Sense of Purpose: Many Nurses find fulfillment in knowing that their work makes a meaningful difference in patients' lives. Connecting with patients and seeing improvements in their health can provide a profound sense of purpose. This sense of purpose goes beyond the everyday tasks of Nursing and transcends into the realm of making a lasting impact on someone's life.

Nurses who find purpose in their work often feel a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, knowing that they are instrumental in helping patients overcome health challenges and improve their overall well-being. Whether it's witnessing a patient recover from a serious illness, helping a patient manage chronic pain, or providing emotional support during a difficult time, Nurses understand the significance of their role in the lives of their patients.

They find purpose in being a source of comfort, strength, and support for individuals and their families, knowing that their presence and care can make a meaningful difference. This sense of purpose not only brings personal fulfillment to Nurses but also drives them to strive for excellence in their practice, continuously seeking ways to improve their skills and knowledge, and ultimately making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve. 

Advocacy for Patients: Acting as advocates can be personally fulfilling for Nurses, as they witness the positive impact their efforts have on their patients' lives. It allows Nurses to make a difference in the lives of individuals and their families, ensuring that they receive the best possible care and support. Advocacy not only contributes to positive patient outcomes but also enhances the Nurse-patient relationship, fostering trust and collaboration.

Recognition and Appreciation: When Nurses feel valued and appreciated by patients, their families, and the healthcare organization, it not only boosts their job satisfaction but also motivates them to continue providing exceptional care. 

One way to recognize Nurses for their hard work and dedication is through regular acknowledgment and praise. Taking the time to acknowledge their efforts, whether through verbal recognition, written notes, or small tokens of appreciation, can make a significant impact on their morale and overall job satisfaction. When Nurses feel seen and appreciated for their contributions, it reinforces their sense of purpose and encourages them to continue going above and beyond for their patients.

In addition to individual recognition, organizations can also implement formal recognition programs to celebrate the achievements and milestones of their Nursing staff. These programs can include awards, ceremonies, or even financial incentives to reward exceptional performance. By publicly recognizing Nurses for their hard work, dedication, and the positive impact they make on patient care, organizations create a culture of appreciation and motivate Nurses to excel in their roles.

Ethical Practice: Maintaining high ethical standards and integrity in Nursing practice can contribute to a sense of pride and fulfillment. Upholding the Nursing code of ethics and making morally sound decisions is essential. It allows them to align their actions and decisions with their values, contributing to a strong professional identity and a sense of personal integrity. Nurses who practice ethically can take pride in knowing that they are upholding the highest standards of their profession and making a positive impact on the lives of their patients.

In addition, ethical practice contributes to a positive work environment and enhances teamwork and collaboration. When Nurses prioritize ethical considerations, they create an atmosphere of trust and respect among their colleagues. This promotes effective communication, shared decision-making, and a culture of safety and accountability.

Leadership Opportunities: Some nurses find fulfillment in leadership roles, where they can influence healthcare policies, drive quality improvement initiatives, or mentor others. These leadership positions allow Nurses to make a broader impact on the healthcare system and drive positive change within their organizations.

These opportunities provide Nurses with the chance to develop and strengthen essential skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. These skills are invaluable not only in leadership roles but also in everyday Nursing practice. By honing these skills, Nurses can enhance their effectiveness in patient care and become more influential advocates for their patients and colleagues.

Ultimately, a fulfilling Nursing career is a personal journey that depends on individual values, interests, and goals. It's essential to regularly assess your career and make adjustments to align it with your evolving aspirations so you can maintain long-term satisfaction in the field of Nursing.

A positive workplace culture is essential for Nurses to provide excellent patient care. In addition, a positive workplace culture on Nursing units can positively impact job satisfaction, staff retention, and patient outcomes.

Unfortunately, in some Nursing units, bullying is tolerated, silently condoned, or completely ignored. This leads to a toxic culture and an unhealthy workplace. There is an age-old phenomenon among some Nurses called “Nurses eating their young.” This form of bullying has been viewed as a rite of passage for new Nurses, but in the end, it has resulted in devastating effects on unit morale. It can have a long-lasting impact on the self-confidence of new Nurses.

The good news is most Nursing units offer a culture of support and positivity. And thankfully, the culture of “eating your young” is slowly dissolving. Nurses see coworkers more often than family due to working long hours, overnights, or holidays, so having support and camaraderie with your colleagues is very important.

Here are some ways you can help support Nurses on your unit to increase morale and create a positive Nursing culture.

Make Friends with Your Co-Workers

Nursing can be stressful, and Nurses often experience intense situations at work. Bonding with coworkers and developing friendships can reduce stress and create a more positive work environment. After all, only Nurses can understand what other Nurses go through. Why not make friends with your Nursing colleagues so you have someone to share all the joys and struggles of the job?

Be a Role Model

The best way to encourage a positive work culture in your unit is to model positive, encouraging behavior. For example, always lend a hand to a fellow Nurse with a heavier patient load or praise a co-worker for a job well done – it’s a great way to spread positivity.

Small acts of kindness are also great ways to role model good behavior on your Nursing units. Acts of service can be as simple as answering a call bell for a fellow Nurse or offering to cover your coworker's patients so they can take their lunch break. When Nurses choose to be positive, show compassion, and respect for their fellow Nurses, we can experience a happier work environment and improve the culture of our units. 

Acknowledge Strengths

Recognizing positive behavior and a job well done is the best way to motivate your colleagues and spread positivity. Feeling valued at work encourages staff members to perform their best and go the extra mile. Empowering Nurses by appreciating everything they do goes a long way. Say thank you to your co-workers when they help you out or compliment them when a job is done well.

Have Fun!

Nurses often deal with life and death circumstances, so saying ‘have fun’ can seem a little insensitive. However, having fun at work is excellent for your mental health and can help reduce stress both on and off the job. Finding humor and laughing with co-workers can lighten the stress Nurses carry on their shoulders throughout the day. Other ideas to try on your unit could be to plan a day to match scrubs, a theme day to celebrate a holiday, or plan a potluck so everyone can enjoy a snack on their lunch break. 

Nurses are kind and compassionate with their patients. They should act the same way to their coworkers. You have the power to create an encouraging, positive culture. So go out there and spread positivity because happy Nurses provide the best care to their patients.

Congratulations on starting your Nursing career! Here are some pieces of advice that may help you as a new Nurse:

Never stop learning

Nursing is a constantly evolving field and there are always new things to learn. Attend continuing education classes, read Nursing journals, go to Nursing conferences, join Nursing associations, and stay up-to-date on the latest research.

Get to know your teammates 

Don't hesitate breaking the ice, introduce yourself, others are probably wondering who this new person is! Once you get to know everyone, try keeping a close group of people you can rely on and talk to when need be. Every one needs a helping hand or shoulder to lean on time and again. 

Sara Lentz DNP, MSN, RN, CNL at Heritage Dignity Health said, "Get to know everyone you work with, from the top to the bottom of the organizational structure. It doesn’t matter if someone is cooking, providing bedside care, or a chief — everybody is there for a common goal and a part of your work family.”

Don't be afraid to ask questions

As a new Nurse, it's okay to not know everything. Ask your colleagues and mentors for help when you need it.

Mary Erickson, RN, Clinical Care Leader at Sanford Health said, "Even after 34 years in the ICU, there is still plenty for me to learn and there will be for you, too. A Nurse who asks a lot of questions and continues to expand their knowledge and expertise will undoubtedly provide good, quality care to patients."

Be organized

Nursing can be a busy and demanding profession, so it's important to be organized. Develop a system for keeping track of your tasks, and prioritize your to-do list. Try taking notes or use a Nursing report sheet, so you can ensure you're always on top of your game.

Stay calm

One of the most important things a new Nurse can do is to remain calm under pressure. When difficult situations arise, it is a Nurse’s job to provide a sense of calm for their patients and their families.

Develop good communication skills

Effective communication is essential in Nursing. Learn how to communicate clearly and effectively with your colleagues, patients, and their families.

“Look at your patient so you notice their nonverbal communication. Find ways to assess fine motor skill where they don’t notice it. For example, when working home health have them reach for pen when signing paperwork. My assessment begins the minute I enter their room or when they open the door. Use ALL of your senses! Actively listen to patients and their family," says Nurse Kay.

Take care of yourself

Burnout in Nursing is common as it's a physically and emotionally demanding job. It's critical you take care of yourself. Get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, enjoy your social life, exercise regularly, and find ways to manage stress.

Be compassionate

Don’t ever forget, you're in the profession of caring. It's important to be compassionate toward your patients and their families. Treat each patient as an individual, with their own unique needs, fears, and preferences.

Build a support network

This career can be challenging, so it's important to have a support system of colleagues, friends, and family members who understand what you're going through.

“Being a Nurse will change your life. It changes your outlook on a lot of things--makes you more passionate about some, thankful for some and just down-right mad about others,” Nina Vella, RN, at St. Edward Mercy Medical Center said, adding that the best part of being a Nurse is “getting to genuinely make a difference in someone’s life. When a patient tells you ‘thank you for saving my life,’ you can’t help but to be proud. When you get to watch a patient that you didn’t know would live or not walk out of a hospital and know that you are a part of the reason they can live again, you can’t explain the feeling!”

Nursing is a rewarding profession that allows you to make a real difference in people's lives. With compassion, great communication skills, an inquisitive and confident nature, a good support network, and a commitment to stay healthy both mentally and physically, you will become an excellent Nurse and make a positive impact on the world.

Patients become difficult for many different reasons. They sometimes become challenging due to diseases that affect their reasoning, like dementia or Alzheimer’s. Other times, patients can become verbally or physically abusive due to high-stress situations or unmet wants or needs. Regardless of why some patients become difficult, Nurses can help handle and diffuse difficult patient interactions with these 5 helpful tips.

Stay Calm

It may be challenging to stay calm when dealing with a problematic or irrational patient, but controlling your emotions is one of the most important things you can do during a confrontation. Reacting to a patient with anger can only escalate the situation and make it worse.  

When dealing with a difficult patient, remember in most cases, they are only being difficult to get their needs met and not to cause trouble. However, other times, patients may be misdirecting their feelings of fear or uncertainty onto you, and it is our job to help them navigate their feelings and de-escalate the situation. Some Nurses have found practicing meditation and yoga helps to develop healthy coping methods and strategies to navigate stressful patient interactions.  

Control Your Body Language

It is only natural to become defensive during a controversial situation. Your body language can often speak louder than spoken words. When interacting with difficult patients, it is important to evaluate your nonverbal communication and ensure it is portraying the right message. You should also avoid standing with your arms crossed, as it can be interpreted as rude or standoffish. Learn to control your facial expressions, gestures, and posture during difficult interactions to help diffuse the situation.  

Listen

When a patient becomes loud or argumentative, it’s natural to respond with anger and defensiveness. In these times, it is essential to remember that the patient is coming from a place of needing to be heard. Whether their request is reasonable or not, we as Nurses must listen to their concerns or complaints.

If you set aside your own feelings about the situation and listen to what the patient is saying, you may be able to get more insight into the situation and come up with a better solution to the conflict. Many times, you may not need to come up with a solution for the patient. They just need someone to listen to them and feel heard. We have to remember, patients are usually in a vulnerable state when being cared for and can be scared, frustrated, or hurt. Listening is one of the easiest ways we can connect with our patients and help them to heal both physically and mentally.  

Have Empathy

Empathy is one of the most important traits of a Nurse. When dealing with difficult patients, it is important to remember they are going through a tough time, and they may be displacing their anger onto you as their Nurse. Make sure you always try to put yourself in your patient’s shoes to better understand where they’re coming from. Patients are only human. They want to be heard and understood. If we connect with them through empathy, it will help to diffuse many uncomfortable situations.  

Set Boundaries

As Nurses, it is our job to provide for the wants and needs of our patients, but it is important to do so within your set boundaries. Sometimes, patients demand things that are unreasonable. Make sure they understand the limitations of your role. As a Nurse, it is important to find the balance between meeting your patient's needs and also standing your ground and not letting a patient push you around. Some patients may try to take advantage of your kindness so it is important to set boundaries and stick to them.

Unfortunately, every Nurse has had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a difficult patient. Next time you find yourself in a challenging situation with a patient, keep these helpful tips in mind so you can get back to providing your patients with exceptional Nursing care. 

Nursing is a profession that requires compassion as well as expertise, making it both an art and a science. Empathy and compassion are critical characteristics of an excellent Nurse. These qualities help us to connect with patients on an individualized basis and improve patient outcomes.

Nurses must also be educated, motivated, and have a strong understanding of evidence-based practice. Nurses must find a unique balance between using their heads and hearts, as well as the balance between the art and science of Nursing to provide our patients with the highest quality care.

The Art of Nursing

Florence Nightingale was the first to coin the phrase, the Art of Nursing. She understood that Nursing is a profession in which physical tasks must be adapted into individualized patient care, making Nursing an educated art form. Empathy and compassion are at the forefront of what makes Nursing an art. Although compassion and empathy are similar concepts, they are vitally different and often confused with one another.

Empathy is the ability to feel the emotions of others. As Nurses, we care for patients when they are most vulnerable. When patients seek medical attention, they can often be fearful, sad, or even angry. To care for these patients respectfully and efficiently, Nurses must be able to empathize with patients to facilitate a strong Nurse-patient relationship to promote healing.

Compassion is the ability to feel the emotions of others while experiencing a desire to help. Nursing is a helping profession and to be an excellent Nurse, you must genuinely want to help others. The task-oriented approach to Nursing can sometimes challenge Nurses to maintain a human connection to our patient. Still, we must always strive to connect with and understand our patients to ensure they are cared for comprehensively. The emotions behind why we do the things we do is what makes Nursing an artform.

The Science of Nursing

The science of Nursing is the ‘why’ behind the tasks we carry out daily. The Nursing profession is built on evidence-based practice. Evidence-based practice collects, processes, and implements research findings into clinical practice and improves patient outcomes.

As Nurses, we strive to provide our patients with the best care possible, so we must ensure that our actions and tasks are well researched and have been shown to improve the health and safety of our patients. This is what the science of Nursing is all about, having a reason behind our actions and an understanding that our interventions improve the outcomes of patients.

Education is also at the foundation of the science of Nursing. To become a Nurse, we must complete coursework that prepares us to meet the diverse needs of our patients and become safe healthcare professionals. Nursing coursework includes detailed education on the intricacies of the human body, disease processes, health policy, and hands-on instruction to develop clinical skillsets.

The nursing curriculum has been well studied and tailored to ensure that new graduate Nurses can provide safe patient care. We know that Nursing programs are effective in producing safe healthcare workers because we have been able to research and understand what education and skills are needed to produce safe novice Nurses.

Once a Nurse has graduated from a Nursing program, they must complete continuing education courses to continue to improve their knowledge and skills. And as medicine is constantly ever-changing, Nurses can never stop learning and growing.

The Nursing Profession

Nursing is not just a career option. It is a true craft where individuals must be able to incorporate evidence-based practices into compassionate and individualized patient care. It is truly a scientific art that must be carried out precisely and efficiently for our patients to receive the highest quality and most up-to-date care.

Nursing is as much of a science as it is an art. The science of Nursing explains a Nurse’s daily work and why tasks are performed, while the art of Nursing is centered around the human connections needed to truly be an effective Nurse.

The art and science of the Nursing profession is ever evolving as we are continually developing new healthcare interventions and continuing to improve upon our human approach to healthcare.

Nursing is a delicate balance of skill, expertise, compassion, and empathy. Without each other, the Nursing profession would not be the respected profession it is today.