A Small Gesture of Kindness
Illustration by Janet Hamlin for AJN.
In our January Reflections column (free until March 1), “Just One More,” a nurse shares her memory of a family facing one of the most painful experiences imaginable—the death of a child.
In a situation like this, there is so little that can be done, and the usual gestures of expressing condolences or giving a pat on the hand feel inadequate and hollow.
She writes:
“I knew that no words could lessen the unexpected heartbreak . . . But still, I wished there was something I could say, or do, that might make a small difference.”
Small gestures, lasting effects.
Most nurses can relate to such a situation. You may not be able to do anything to change a patient’s circumstances, and all you have left in your arsenal of care is a small gesture of kindness. […]