Personal relationships are therapeutic in a sense because it gives the patient a source of
support, care, and encouragement. The person is looked at as a whole and not just a disease or
another patient. The nurse-patient relationship is vital aspect of care. This type of relationship
demonstrates one of the selfless roles that he or she must perform. The relationship is meant to
aid and support the patient. I think it vital for the nurse to always keep in mind the individuals
priorities and emotions. True caring does not revolve around ones self. The patients wants and
needs must come before what the nurse prioritizes as more important. I believe that the nurse
should always try to pursue and maintain this relationship.
Guiding Principles
As I begin to care for patients, I live by two principles that impact how I carry out my
tasks as a student nurse. I always try to follow the age old golden rule. This mantra states that
you should treat others the way that you want to be treated. I try to incorporate this into every
facet of care. I use this principle during ordinary task, such as while bathing a client or getting
them something as simple as ice chips. When I make a bed, I try to take a few extra minutes to
smooth out the wrinkle to prevent irritation to the patients skin as well as taking into account the