The Power of Compassion in Nursing

Welcome to Heart & Hands: The Nurse’s Journey! I’m Ashley Wiltcher, a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner with a passion for inspiring and supporting fellow nurses. I’ve been in nursing since 2007, with experience in home health, hospice, case management, and primary care. Through the years, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, dedication, and compassion it takes to be a nurse. Hearts & Hands: The Nurse's Journey is where we celebrate the heart, dedication, and resilience of nurses everywhere. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, this blog is here to inspire, uplift, and remind you why you chose this incredible path.

This is a space to uplift, encourage, and remind you why you chose this incredible path. Whether you're just starting your journey or you're a seasoned nurse, I’m here to share stories, insights, and strategies to help you thrive—both professionally and personally.

Let’s dive in!

Today, we’re talking about The Power of Compassion in Nursing—how small moments of kindness can make a world of difference, not only for patients but for you as a caregiver.

WHY COMPASSION MATTERS

Think back to your first day as a nurse. Maybe you felt nervous, overwhelmed, or even questioned if you were ready. But then, something happened—a patient smiled, a family member thanked you, or a mentor reassured you. That moment, no matter how small, had power. It reminded you why you stepped into this field.

Compassion is at the heart of what we do. It’s not just about treating illness—it’s about treating people. Every interaction, every touch, every word carries healing energy. In the fast-paced world of healthcare, it’s easy to forget that. But today, I want to help you remember.

Let me share a story. At the beginning of COVID, I had the privilege of working in an inpatient hospice COVID unit. Family members were able to gown up and join their family members in the unit. However, not everyone had family members who were well enough to come see their loved ones. Let's call my patient Mr. Smith - he was alone and due to his critical condition, he was scared. He simply wanted someone to be present in his room. Out of all the things that we do in a shift, he verbalized that he was thankful for my presence - not for the narcotics, warm blankets or ice cream. My presence was invaluable to him!

This night reminded me that sometimes it's not about the science or the medication, it is simply about presence, kindness, and the power of human connection. 

COMPASSION: THE GIFT WE GIVE OURSELVES

SELF-COMPASSION FOR NURSES

But let’s talk about something just as important—compassion for yourself.

You give so much to others. Long hours, emotional challenges, and high-stakes decisions take a toll. So, I ask you: How do you care for yourself?

Here are three simple ways to nurture your own well-being:

1. Breathe with Intention – Take just one minute before or after a shift to close your eyes and take deep breaths. It helps reset your mind and body. P.S. there's not a rule that says you can't take a breath with intention between each patient's room if you need it :)
2. Find a Support System – Talk to a trusted friend, a mentor, or a therapist when you need to unload. You don’t have to carry the emotional weight alone! I have several "emotional support coworkers."
3. Celebrate Small Wins – Each day, write down one thing you did that made a difference. It could be a smile, a word of encouragement, or a life saved.

Today, I want to leave you with this: You are enough. Your work matters. Your kindness changes lives.

The world needs more nurses like you. And even on the hardest days, never forget—you are making a difference.

Thank you for reading Heart & Hands: The Nurse’s Journey. If this inspired you, share it with a fellow nurse who needs encouragement today. And don’t forget to subscribe for more stories, insights, and heartwarming moments.

Until next time, keep healing, keep caring, and keep shining.

XOXO
Ashley