Empathy is the ability to see, comprehend, and share the perspectives of others without passing judgement. Empathy requires nurses to put themselves in the shoes of their patients, demonstrating that connection, and acting on that knowledge to improve care.(Norwich University Online, 2021)
Empathy affects us emotionally, cognitively, and behaviorally. Nurses with this attribute evaluate social cues as well as vital indicators to choose treatment alternatives. Empathy helps to more successful patient outcomes. (Norwich University Online, 2021)
Tips to Incorporate Empathy in Nursing
Here are a few tips to help a nurse build empathy:
1. Listen to Patients and Show Curiosity About Their Lives
Recognizing the patients' statements with nods and reactions show awareness. Patients who believe nurses are listening are more open about their symptoms, questions, and concerns, resulting in more effective care and better satisfaction.
2. Be Kind and Respectful
Being considerate and delivering high-quality help that benefits a patient's condition. Ignoring your personal biases and prejudices and instead fight to guarantee that everyone has equitable access to high-quality treatment.
3. Develop Cultural Competence and Awareness
Understanding and respecting a patient's ethnicity, gender, religion, and social group may improve care in a variety of ways, from respecting religious views connected to therapy to adopting preferred pronouns for transgender and gender diverse patients. Nurses may give the most empathic and effective care by understanding a patient's views and personality.
4. Use Self-Care Strategies to Prevent Compassion Fatigue
Caring for others means caring for oneself, whether through talking with a friend (or in this case the patient), exercise, or spending time outside. This also includes practice remaining in the present moment.
5. Lead by Example
Empathy in nursing encourages nurses to apply similar practices, and this positive behavior goes beyond the boundaries of health care settings. Nurses can foster positive behavior by showing positive attributes such as empathy when treating patients or engaging with people in the community. Use emotional intelligence to demonstrate leadership that promotes good behavior.
(Norwich University Online, 2021)
By following these tips, it will provide strong foundations for practicing empathy in nursing.
References
Norwich University Online. (2021, January 26). Importance
of empathy in
nursing: 5 patient care tips.
Norwich University. Retrieved from https://online.norwich.edu/academic-programs/resources/empathy-in-nursing
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