Nurses and healthcare workers are exhausted. The nurse-patient ratio is higher and many nurses work mandatory overtime. Most are torn between work and family, feeling that neither are getting their best and full attention. Due to universal staffing shortages and increased patient acuity, many leaders press their staff to work longer and harder to increase productivity. But one of the best ways to get the most from nursing staff is to be empathetic.
Research has shown that empathy makes people better managers, workers, family members, and friends.
Some people are naturally more empathetic than others, but here are easy ideas anyone can do to increase empathy.
- Listen actively: Remove distractions and face the person; look into their eyes. Only 7 percent of communication is verbal; body language and facial expressions convey empathy.
- Provide encouraging feedback: A smile, a nod that says, “I understand.”
- Recognize their emotions: Give them dedicated time to communicate how they’re feeling. Don’t immediately offer advice on how to “fix” things.
- As you work together, demonstrate and verbalize respect for them and other nurses, operating as a team that cares for patients and each other.
- Begin shifts with two-minute Heart Moments, where nurses share inspiring patient care stories.
- On the anniversary date of their employment, or any day, write a note of recognition and gratitude.
- Instead of “Exit Interviews” have “Stay-On” interviews. Ask, “What things keep you here? What frustrates you so much that you sometimes want to leave? What else would you like to tell me?”
- Take time to know personal and family information.
- Ask them thoughtful questions to show them you care.
- Remind them to care for themselves as they care for others. Help them nurture their minds, bodies, and spirits. Remind them to take a break to eat a meal, take a breath, take a walk or visit the chapel
Building empathetic lasting relationships builds trust and rapport.
It increases productivity, civility, and retention and creates happiness in the workplace. In times like these, with nurse burnout at an all-time high, it is more important than ever to help nurses and healthcare professionals prioritize their mental health. SelfCare for HealthCare is a program that can help promote self-care for nurses and prevent nurse burnout.
