A recent Gallup poll found that nursing is considered to be the most trusted profession. Nurses earn a record 89% very high/high score for their honesty and ethics, and for patients, that’s important. When you’re not feeling well, you can be at your most vulnerable. While the doctor creates the plan for recovery, it’s often nurses who carry it out. Nurses also have more personal and more frequent interaction with patients than any other healthcare provider.
If you ask a nurse why they chose the profession, many will tell you it’s more than a job, it’s a calling. They’re born caregivers and are naturally driven to build trust with their patients. Looking at their general characteristics, here are three reasons why nurses are so well regarded and respected.
Bedside Manner
Nurses are at the patient’s bedside more than doctors, and they put the patient’s needs and feelings first. They also strive to make the encounter personal, using the patient’s name, maintaining eye contact, and listening. Nurses also deal with patients when they may be stressed or emotional. They recognize that the reactions they may face are not directed at them, and they maintain their professionalism and their compassion.
Time
Nurses really get to know their patients. Because nurses spend a lot of time with patients—much more than any other healthcare provider, they have a chance to get to know their patients. Their friendly face is often the first one they see at the hospital or doctor’s office during the course of care. Patients often trust the person who is always there. And nurses are always available around the clock, ready to help.
Caring
Patients know that nurses care because it is demonstrated in every interaction. If a patient needs a blanket or a glass of water, the nurse is the one who will respond. If a patient has a question about their treatment, medication or needs help moving about, the nurse is there for them … to find answers to their questions and get them what they need. Nurses also tend to the patient’s family, answering questions and helping interpret what the doctor is saying. Caring throughout the day builds a relationship and a level of trust.
When a patient experiences a strong level of care, it can lead to the type of trust displayed in the results of the Gallup poll. If you’re driven to help people and are considering a career in this rewarding field, Fortis College in Cutler Bay can help put you on the path. Fortis offers a variety of programs including an Associate Degree in Nursing, Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting and Medical Assisting with Basic X-ray Operation.
