Medicine asked something extraordinary of nurses: to forge intimate connections with another person for hours, weeks, or months, to care thoroughly and holistically - and then to let that individual suddenly go, often never to be heard from again.
This quote poignantly captures a profound yet often overlooked aspect of nursing—the emotional and psychological labor inherent in the profession. Nurses do not merely provide medical care; they build deep, meaningful relationships with their patients, sometimes spanning extended periods. These connections demand an incredible level of empathy, patience, and dedication. What stands out in this reflection is the juxtaposition of intimacy and impermanence. Nurses invest themselves thoroughly, offering holistic care that...