underwanderingskies

[underwanderingskies]

Why We Really Chose To Care

Cielo O. Benavidez

"Isn’t it amazing how a simple act of care can mean the world to someone in pain?"

In nursing, care is more than a duty; it’s a choice. A choice we make every day, even in the face of challenges, fear, and uncertainty. But what drives that choice? For many of us, it’s not just about the skills we acquire, it’s the human connection - the communication, empathy, and the desire to make someone feel seen and heard

As a nursing student, I’ve come to realize that we choose to care because we understand the power of presence. We choose to care not just to treat illnesses, but to bring comfort and understanding to those who need it most.

I’ve learned that caring doesn’t always mean saying the right words. Sometimes, it’s just about being there. I remember my friend who was clearly struggling but kept saying she was fine. Instead of pushing her to speak. I just stayed and told her I care. Eventually she opened up, telling me that it wasn’t because of what I said but it was how I stayed and made her feel she wasn’t alone.

In our first semester, we were taught about theories in nursing, and one of those is about caring. According to Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, the essence of nursing lies in our ability to connect, to be present, and to care deeply. Her theory reminds us that care itself is therapeutic.

Supporting this, a review by Sinclair et al. (2016) shows that compassion in healthcare leads to better patient outcomes. It proves that the simple act of being present and showing empathy truly makes a difference in how people heal not just physically, but emotionally.

So, to sum it up, why do we really chose to care? Because as nurses, it’s not just our job, it’s our calling. And with that, may we be reminded that the heart of nursing is not just about in what we do, but in how we make people feel. So, to all my fellow future nurses, I leave you with this quote by Maya Angelou: “They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel”

Thank you.