By Kelly Hancock, DNP, RN, NE-BC
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As nurses, we understand the tremendous impact we can have on our patients. Nurses are at their sides more than any other caregiver, so our influence is all the more powerful and restorative if it is based on empathy. Understanding the feelings and emotions experienced by those in our care helps us form the relationships that can become true pathways to healing.
Two incredible things about the practice of empathy: Those who exhibit it know how to apply it to themselves first. And when others see us modeling empathy, they can become inspired to be more empathetic themselves.
The upcoming 2018 Patient Experience Summit, “Empathy Where You Are,” on June 18-20, brings all of these realities and considerations to the forefront. Below are 10 reasons why nurses especially should consider attending:
I am co-chair of this year’s event and welcome your participation.
I hope to see you there — where we can all explore and recommit to the practice of empathy — toward ourselves, our colleagues, our loved ones and the patients we are entrusted to serve.
Kelly Hancock is the Executive Chief Nursing Officer of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, and Chief Nursing Officer of Cleveland Clinic Main Campus.
Follow Kelly on Twitter at @kkellyhancock.
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