Nurses take care of their patients all-year round but this week is extra special. As it’s the celebration of Nurses Week, we’re outlining five of the best yet simple ways you, as patients, can give the love and appreciation back to your nurses.
1. Say thank you.
This is probably one of the simplest yet sincerest way of telling your nurse you appreciate her efforts. It doesn’t have to be grand. As a matter of fact, just reaching out to your nurse to say these two words can make a huge difference in her day or even her career.
“You don’t get to hear patients telling you “Thank you” on a regular basis, but when they do, it really means a lot. You feel more energized and motivated to do your best at work,” a ward nurse said.
2. Write a note.
If you are not verbally expressive, you can show your appreciation by writing a short but sweet note for your nurse. Or you can encourage other patients to do the same and use all the notes to create a “thank-you” board.
You can ask your relative or the other nurses to place the board in an area where your nurse can easily see it. You’ll be surprised when you see her reaction.
3. When you help yourself get well
Nothing means more to nurses than seeing their patients get healthy, and it’s a plus if the patient is proactive and cooperative during his confinement. It takes a ton of stress out of the nurse’s work, and that means a lot to them.
“Seeing patients being discharged and being a lot better always gives me a smile from ear to ear – a proof I did a great job and changed someone’s life,” says a staff nurse.
4. Offer a cup of coffee.
With the long and tiring hours at work, a nurse would definitely appreciate a good cup of coffee. You don’t have to be brand-specific but taking the time to know your nurse’s favorite cup can surely add a more personal touch to the gesture.
“A patient got me a cup of coffee before he was discharged. I was surprised that he gave me my favorite. It turns out that his mother saw me drinking it before the start of one of my shifts. It was a totally heartwarming experience,” an ICU nurse said.
5. Don’t make their work even harder.
A nurse’s work already involves a lot of complicated things so when they say they need you to do something, make sure you follow right away. Helping them passively on your own little way is an excellent means of showing them your appreciation.
“I like it when my patients listen to my instructions. It makes me feel valued and appreciated,” a surgical ward nurse said.
Aside from following instructions, it’s also helpful if you can avoid creating an unnecessary mess in your room. Nurses already have a challenging work. Don’t make it even harder for them.
This Nurses Week, don’t forget to give credit when its due! Always show appreciation for the good things we have!