Updated: The 10 Ways To Say “Thank You” To Your Nurse.
Whether you are a patient or just a family or friend of a nurse, we all know how hard they work at their job on the daily. They are constantly on their feet, walking miles a day and devoting all of their physical and mental energy to ensuring their patients get what they need. A lot of times patients may be asking what they can do to thank a nurse or repay them for all that they do and a lot of times friends or family may be asking the same.
Current research has suggested that gratitude from patients can increase well-being, productivity, teamwork and culture all while reducing illness and mortality. Simply put, being grateful can do a lot for mental health.
10 Ways to say "Thanks"
Here are some great ways to thank a nurse for all that they do, whether it is for you or for others!
- Something very simple that many may overlook when it comes to thanking healthcare providers is the power of a simple card or note. Even a postcard after treatment is over can make a nurse feel appreciated!
- This is something respectful and a way to show thank you: remember your nurse’s name. Even if you can’t remember his or her name, ask politely. After this, you can thank him or her for being there for you and helping you heal! Saying, “thank you” is the easiest way to show your gratitude and makes all the difference when you want to thank a nurse.
- On a day-to-day basis, a nurse handles a large amount of tasks from taking care of their patients to recording all documents and more. The hospital room or clinical can have hectic, crazy days just like any other business can have. However, these people are in charge of lives. If you ask your nurse for something, give them some time to bring it back. If you ask on the status of your procedure, where your doctor is or any other major questions, give them time to figure it out. If your nurse continues to fill your ice, make sure that you’re comfortable and more all during your stay, be appreciative.
- If you aren’t necessarily a patient of the nurse you are trying to thank, but perhaps a family member or friend, one way you can show appreciation for them is to go see them! Nurses work long shifts away from their loved ones, finding out what time they have a break and spending lunch with them can make those shifts go by much quicker!
- A nurse is tasked with taking care of patients who stay in the hospital for hours, days and months. If you were once a long term patient, stop by and say hello to your nurse! They were responsible for your well-being during your stay and want to know how you’re doing! Even add in there that they helped you heal and how thankful for them you are, brownie points.
- If a nurse is relaying messages from your doctor, please don’t get upset. There is only so much a nurse has control over and your specialists or doctors requests are out of their control. A nurse can help you adjust for these changes after discharge. A new diet, lifestyle or ending a habit will never be easy, but your nurse will be there to help you along the way!
- If you are someone who shows gratitude through gifts or small presents, one thing that most nurses can agree on is the benefit of compression socks. These socks can soothe aches and prevent swelling during those long shifts.
- A small homemade treat, snack or even dinner could be a simple way to say thank you! It’s important to try to ask your nurse if they have any allergies and start up some small talk.
- A nurse deals with lots of patients with many different emotions. No matter what, try to show gratitude during your stay.
- At the end of the day, a simple thank you and a smile will be enough! Everything listed above is all extra and isn’t always necessary. A simple smile, hug or handshake with a thank you can be enough to thank a nurse.
