No one goes into nursing expecting a cakewalk. This profession is not only physically demanding, but mentally and emotionally taxing, too. You’re expected to be strong in the face of suffering and tragedy while also showing compassion and empathy, and straddling this line can be difficult.
Stress is a normal part of life. In moderation, stress can be good for you! It affects everyone, no matter what your profession, if you are on the job or at home. According to a study printed in a National Institute of Health (NIH) publication, healthcare professions are among the most stressful professions. Healthcare professionals are responsible for the care given to many generations of patients from birth to geriatrics. There are many decisions to be made while giving that care, and the actions (or lack of actions) taken by clinicians can have life-changing effects on their patients. Definitely stress inducing!
Over the past few years, healthcare professionals have begun using the term patient-centered care to describe a growing number of processes and activities. Because the term has become more pervasive, it can be challenging to decipher exactly what patient-centered care means, what it encompasses and, most importantly, how you can create a more patient-centered experience within your healthcare organization.
