Compassion and Nursing

Compassion and nursing should go hand in hand. Many of us know, having a nurse that is not compassionate makes that trip to the hospital a regrettable one. In order to provide meaningful care to our future clients, we must remember to be empathetic and considerate to patients and their loved ones. It is important that we put ourselves in the patient's position, and realize how we would like to be treated by the health care team. When a nurse has compassion for her patient, it allows the therapeutic relationship to take place naturally; it allows a deeper connection to be developed. I know that in the past, I have felt much more comfortable with a nurse that shows that she cares, understands and genuinely wants to help. Not only is compassion important for the rehabilitation of patients, but also for the mental well-being of the nurse as well. Compassion allows us to see patients for who they are, and helps us to avoid judgements and biases that can generate negative feelings. After all, we all want to remain positive so that we can enjoy each day, and provide the best care that we are able to.

Burnout

Burnout is something that worries me a little when thinking about my future in nursing. I am very motivated and excited to begin my journey as a nurse, but I often wonder if I, like so many other nurses, will one day burnout. There are a few great nurses that I know who seem to be burning out, and I'm sure that at one time they too were motivated and excited like me. Is it possible to avoid burnout? Nurses are overworked, and work long hours; everyday they give themselves in order to help others. Although this is the profession they have chosen, it still takes a toll on a person. After all, nurses are only human too!
So what can we do to avoid burnout? I don't know the answer to this question. Really all we can do is stay positive, provide the best care we can, but don't give away our whole selves; a healthy balance is a must!!

13 Signs of Burnout and How To Help You Avoid It

So how do you know if you, a loved one, or someone who reports to you is suffering from burnout? Here are the early warning signs.
1. Chronic fatigue - exhaustion, tiredness, a sense of being physically run down
2. Anger at those making demands
3. Self-criticism for putting up with the demands
4. Cynicism, negativity, and irritability
5. A sense of being besieged
6. Exploding easily at seemingly inconsequential things
7. Frequent headaches and gastrointestinal disturbances
8. Weight loss or gain
9. Sleeplessness and depression
10. Shortness of breath
11. Suspiciousness
12. Feelings of helplessness
13. Increased degree of risk taking

Neils, H. (2008). 13 signs of burnout and how to help you avoid it. Retrieved December 2, 2008 from http://www.assessment.com/mappmembers/avoidingburnout.asp?Accnum=06-5210-010.00&gclid=CJzs-8L0opcCFYiT7QodMQI-9w.