when your patient says thanks….

The other morning I was approached by a patient in the hospital foyer. She just wanted to say thanks for the care I had given her. Then out of left field she said, “and I love following your blog and Facebook page….but I must say I’m a bit disappointed you didn’t write anything about me. …..wasn’t I interesting enough?” Strangely enough, I have had this happen 3 times over the last month. Patients who recognised me from this blog or my Facebook page, which I do not deny feels sorta nice & elicits mucho self ego-stroking (which is not so nice, just ask my partner)….but it also underlines the care I must take respecting patient and family confidentiality with what I say here1. Apologies Ms P. The problem was you were just a little TOO interesting! But I am very glad to see you have made such a great recovery. When a patient (or their family) take the time to give you an extended thank you or write a card or suchlike…..well it really gives a lift to your shift. It can re-ignite your practice and re-mind you what is at the centre of what you do each day. A small thing, a few words. Big difference. Anyway, I posted about this experience on my Facebook page and many other nurses related their own best thank you moments…. Angie The family of an elderly lady I was caring for wanted a photo of us together because the woman had told her family how I brightened her day. I was rushing about and mentioned that the light would be better in the afternoon (and i’d b...
Source: impactEDnurse - Category: Nurses Authors: Tags: reflective practice. Source Type: blogs