A couple of weeks ago, we celebrated National Nurses Week and appreciate the amazing sacrifices given by our heroic men and women who wear the uniform. Here is a reflection by a nurse for a nurse…or any of us in the medical profession!

One thing that keeps me going is that the patients tell me what a good nurse I am, or I’m the best nurse they’ve ever had. Those compliments really keep me charged.

This convinces me that nursing is not about the medications you give or the procedures you perform. It’s about listening to your patients and making them smile. I never leave a patient room without making them laugh or smile, even when I’m in a hurry. Patients WANT to know and NEED to know that you care about them.

I’ve been complimented that every time I enter my patients’ room I have a smile on my face and that I made the patient feel at ease. I also engage the family. They’re stressed and worried. I’ve been told by patients’ families that they go home with peace because they know their loved one is well cared for.

Although everyday has its challenges that sometimes frustrated me to my wits end, I leave every shift feeling like I did my best and that I made a difference. It’s been another good day!