Chronic Living Blog

As I write this, Thanksgiving is approaching. I thought it would be timely to talk about ways to show your appreciation. While I focus on nurses, all staff involved in your care deserve respect and recognition.

Nurses are bound by ethics rules and laws. They are not allowed to accept large gifts. If they refuse a gift, they are trying to follow these ethics rules.

Nurses are often caring for people on their worst days. They often bear the anger and sadness of patients who are dealing with their emotions.

Choose kindness, here are some suggestions.

1. Smile, and be friendly.
2. Write a thank you note, these are savored and earn a place in their locker.
3. Send a thank you note to the nurse manager, these are often used when considering raises and promotions.
4. Along the same lines, the note can be for a Daisy Award. Daisy Awards go to nurses who go above and beyond.
5. Leave a small gift at the nurse’s station to share. Individually wrapped snacks are popular. (Avoid home cooked food).

Saying thank you can turn around a bad day for a nurse. They remember the kindnesses that are returned to them.