Nurse-Patient Relationships

As a nursing student I am like a toddler learning how to walk and talk, trying to constantly absorb and then apply as much knowledge as possible in order to be a safe, ethical, competent and compassionate nurse.  My learning efforts are often focused on scientific and nursing theory, evidence based practice, and learning new technical skills, but there is also a softer, human side of nursing.  Nurses have the incredible honor and responsibility of caring for patients and families in their most vulnerable moments.

In her New York Times blog post today, When Nurses Bond With Their Patients, Sarah Horstman, RN, does an excellent job exploring the sometimes blurry line between professional therapeutic nurse-patient relationships, and personal relationships with patients.  She writes, "nurses and patients move in and out of each others’ lives so quickly, but we are nonetheless changed by every encounter."  I am excited to be entering a profession that will challenge me to constantly grow and refine myself, both as a professional and as a person.