Applied Psychology for Nurses Quiz Questions and Answers

How do you feel about the idea that the mind can influence physical health?

I absolutely believe it! I’ve seen it firsthand in my patients.
I’m open to the idea, but I need to see more evidence to be convinced.
I’m a bit skeptical. I think physical health is mostly determined by biological factors.
I’m not sure. It’s an interesting concept, but I need to learn more about it.

What’s your favorite example from the book of how a nurse’s psychology can impact patient care?

The nurse who struggles with her emotions resonated with me. It’s a good reminder to be mindful of my own mental state.
The scenario with the patient refusing food was fascinating. It showed how important it is to understand a patient’s perspective, even if it seems illogical.
I found the concept of autosuggestion particularly intriguing, and how nurses can use it to positively influence patients.
The idea of a “born nurse” versus a “conscientious nurse” sparked my interest. I relate more to the dedication aspect.

What makes you nervous about encountering a patient with a mental disorder that you’re not familiar with?

I worry about saying or doing the wrong thing and making the situation worse.
I’m concerned about my own safety if the patient becomes agitated or unpredictable.
I feel anxious about not having the knowledge or skills to provide adequate care.
I’m afraid of being judgmental or dismissive of the patient’s experience.

What makes you most frustrated about the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in healthcare settings?

The lack of understanding and empathy from some colleagues is disheartening.
It’s frustrating to see patients being treated differently because of their mental health conditions.
The limited resources and support available for mental health patients are concerning.
The dismissal of the mind-body connection in some medical approaches is frustrating.

What are you most excited about when it comes to applying the principles of psychology in your nursing practice?

I’m excited to be able to connect with my patients on a deeper level and understand their perspectives better.
I look forward to using my knowledge of psychology to help patients cope with illness and promote their overall well-being.
I’m eager to develop my own self-control and emotional equilibrium to become a more effective and compassionate nurse.
I’m excited to be part of a shift towards more holistic and patient-centered healthcare that recognizes the mind-body connection.

What do you dream about when it comes to the future of nursing, especially in relation to mental health?

I envision a future where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
I dream of a healthcare system where nurses have the resources and support to provide comprehensive mental health care.
I hope to see a world where mental illness is destigmatized and patients feel comfortable seeking help.
I dream of being part of a generation of nurses who are equipped to address both the physical and psychological needs of their patients.

What happened in the past when you encountered a patient who held a very different point of view from your own?

I struggled to understand their perspective at first, but I tried to listen without judgment and ask questions to learn more.
I found myself getting defensive, but I realized that it was important to put my personal biases aside and focus on the patient’s needs.
I felt overwhelmed and unsure how to proceed, but I sought guidance from a more experienced colleague.
I was able to connect with the patient on a human level and build rapport despite our differences.

What comes to mind when you think about the concept of “attention” in the context of health and disease?

I think about how our thoughts and focus can influence our physical and mental states.
I imagine the power of distraction to alleviate pain or anxiety.
I consider the importance of mindfulness and being present in the moment.
I reflect on how negative thoughts and worries can exacerbate illness.

What’s your favorite technique for managing stress and promoting your own well-being as a nurse?

Mindfulness meditation helps me to stay grounded and present in the moment.
Regular exercise helps me to release tension and improve my mood.
Spending time in nature allows me to de-stress and reconnect with myself.
Journaling helps me to process my emotions and gain clarity.

When you were a kid, how did you imagine nurses?

I saw them as kind and caring figures who helped people feel better.
I was fascinated by the medical side and imagined them doing important procedures.
I didn’t have a strong image of them, but I knew they worked in healthcare.
I associated them with hospitals and doctors, but didn’t fully grasp their role.

You have a choice of focusing on a patient’s physical symptoms or trying to understand their emotional state. Which do you choose and why?

While I need to address the physical symptoms, I prioritize understanding their emotional state as it often provides valuable context for their physical health.
I focus on both equally, as I believe in a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of mind and body.
I tend to prioritize the physical symptoms first, as they often seem more urgent, but I try to address emotional needs as well.
I rely on my intuition and the specific situation to guide my approach, but I strive for a balance between physical and emotional care.

A patient is anxious about an upcoming procedure and is expressing negative thoughts. How do you react?

I validate their feelings, provide reassurance, and offer coping mechanisms like deep breathing exercises.
I explain the procedure in detail to address any knowledge gaps that might be contributing to their anxiety.
I distract them with lighthearted conversation and try to shift their focus away from their worries.
I listen empathetically, offer support, and involve them in decisions to give them a sense of control.

What keeps you up at night about the emotional demands of nursing?

I worry about making a mistake that negatively impacts a patient’s well-being.
I fear experiencing compassion fatigue or burnout due to the emotional intensity of the job.
I sometimes struggle to let go of work-related stress and find it difficult to switch off.
I’m concerned about the emotional toll that caring for sick and suffering patients can take on my own mental health.

Which of these nursing scenarios would you enjoy the most and why?

Assisting with a complex medical procedure, as I thrive in fast-paced environments that require technical skills.
Providing emotional support to a terminally ill patient, as I find deep fulfillment in connecting with patients on a human level during challenging times.
Educating a patient about their condition, as I enjoy empowering patients with knowledge and helping them to understand their health.
Advocating for a patient’s needs to the healthcare team, as I am passionate about ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and have their voices heard.

When you think about the concept of “mind over matter,” what are you most concerned about?

I worry about patients blaming themselves for their illnesses or feeling like they have failed if they can’t simply “think themselves better.”
I’m concerned about the potential for misinterpreting the concept and dismissing the very real biological basis of many diseases.
I’m wary of promoting unrealistic expectations or giving patients false hope.
I’m cautious about oversimplifying the complex interplay between psychological and physiological factors.

What aspect of applying psychological principles to nursing makes you the most happy?

Witnessing the positive impact that emotional support and a holistic approach can have on a patient’s healing journey brings me joy.
Seeing patients feel understood, empowered, and more in control of their health is incredibly rewarding.
Knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my patients by addressing their physical and emotional needs is deeply fulfilling.
Building genuine connections with patients and fostering trust through empathetic listening and compassionate care brings me great satisfaction.

What is most likely to make you feel down about the current state of healthcare?

The pressure to prioritize efficiency over patient-centered care can be disheartening.
The lack of focus on mental health and the stigma surrounding it are disheartening.
The challenges of navigating a complex healthcare system can be frustrating for both patients and providers.
The emotional toll that caring for sick and suffering patients can take on healthcare professionals is often overlooked.

In a perfect world, what would the relationship between nurses and patients be like?

A true partnership based on mutual respect, trust, and open communication where patients feel heard, understood, and empowered.
A collaborative effort where nurses and patients work together to achieve the best possible health outcomes.
A space where nurses can provide compassionate care without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, and patients feel safe and supported.
A relationship characterized by empathy, kindness, and a shared commitment to the patient’s well-being.

If you could wave a magic wand, what would the perfect outcome be for a patient struggling with both a physical illness and mental health challenges?

I would want them to experience complete physical healing and find lasting emotional well-being.
I wish for them to feel understood, supported, and empowered to navigate their health journey with resilience and hope.
I would hope for them to access to comprehensive and compassionate care that addresses their physical and mental health needs.
I dream of a world where they no longer face stigma or judgment for their conditions and can live full and meaningful lives.

How often do you consciously try to see a situation from the patient’s point of view?

I make a conscious effort to do this with every patient interaction.
I try to, but sometimes I get caught up in my own perspective.
I’m more likely to do this when I sense that the patient is feeling misunderstood or frustrated.
I’m working on being more mindful of this in my daily practice.

You are at a party and someone asks, “What’s it like being a nurse?”. How do you respond?

I tell them it’s incredibly challenging but also incredibly rewarding, sharing a brief anecdote that highlights the emotional impact of the job.
I explain that it’s more than just a job, it’s a calling that requires compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to caring for others.
I keep it lighthearted and focus on the funnier aspects of the job, sharing humorous stories about patients or coworkers.
I give them a realistic overview of the demands and rewards, highlighting the intellectual, emotional, and technical skills required.

How comfortable are you advocating for a patient’s psychological needs when they seem to contradict a doctor’s orders?

I am comfortable advocating for my patients, especially when it comes to their mental well-being.
I’m a bit hesitant to directly contradict a doctor, but I would try to find a way to voice my concerns and advocate for the patient’s needs.
I would need to feel very confident in my assessment of the patient’s psychological needs before challenging a doctor’s orders.
I would likely defer to the doctor’s judgment in most cases, as they have more medical training.

You have an hour to spend with a patient, free from other tasks. What do you do?

I sit with them and engage in genuine conversation, allowing them to share their worries, fears, and hopes for the future.
I help them to engage in activities that bring them joy and distraction from their illness, such as reading, listening to music, or simply chatting.
I use the time to provide education about their condition and treatment plan, empowering them to be active participants in their care.
I offer a listening ear and provide emotional support, validating their feelings and offering words of encouragement.

Which of these topics related to psychology and nursing is most likely to be a struggle for you?

Dealing with death and dying, as it can be emotionally taxing and I worry about saying the wrong thing to grieving families.
Managing my own emotions in challenging situations, as I sometimes struggle to maintain my composure when I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Understanding patients with severe mental illnesses, as I still feel like I’m learning about different conditions and how to best support these patients.
Navigating difficult conversations with patients and families, as I find it hard to deliver difficult news or have tough conversations about end-of-life care.

Which member of the nursing team are you?

The one who is always calm and collected, as I thrive in high-pressure situations and am able to remain level-headed under stress.
The one who is deeply empathetic and connects with patients on an emotional level, as I have a natural ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
The one who is a strong advocate for patients’ rights, as I am passionate about ensuring that all patients receive fair and equitable care.
The one who is always learning and seeking new knowledge, as I have a thirst for knowledge and am always looking for ways to improve my skills.

New research emerges about the mind-body connection and its implications for nursing. What is your first response?

I’m excited to read the research and see how I can integrate the findings into my practice to better serve my patients.
I’m a bit skeptical, but I’m open to learning more and seeing if the research is credible and applicable to my work.
I’m curious but cautious, as I want to make sure that I’m using evidence-based practices.
I’m eager to share this new information with my colleagues and start a discussion about how we can apply it in our workplace.

Someone asks you, “How are you holding up?” after a particularly challenging shift. What’s the actual answer, not just “I’m fine”?

“Honestly, I’m feeling a bit emotionally drained after that shift. It’s been a tough one.”
“I’m doing okay, but it was a heavy day. It takes a lot out of you sometimes.”
“I’m hanging in there. It’s days like these that remind me why I love being a nurse, but it’s also emotionally demanding.”
“I’m trying to process everything that happened today. It was a lot to handle, but I’m grateful for my team’s support.”

What’s your go-to activity for decompressing after a long shift?

I enjoy going for a run or hitting the gym to release some endorphins and clear my head.
I love curling up on the couch with a good book and a cup of tea to escape into another world for a while.
I find spending time in nature to be incredibly restorative. A walk in the park or a hike in the woods helps me to reconnect with myself and de-stress.
I prioritize spending quality time with my loved ones. Connecting with the people who matter most helps me to recharge and feel supported.

What area of psychology do you most want to dive deep on to enhance your nursing practice?

I want to delve deeper into the psychology of grief and loss to better support my patients and their families through challenging times.
I’m interested in exploring the impact of stress on the body and learning more about stress reduction techniques that I can share with my patients.
I’m fascinated by the power of the mind-body connection and want to learn more about how I can harness its potential to promote healing and well-being.
I’m eager to expand my knowledge of mental illnesses and learn more about effective communication and support strategies for patients with diverse needs.

What’s your favorite memory of a time when you felt like you made a real difference in a patient’s life?

I once cared for a patient who was very anxious about their diagnosis. I took the time to listen to their fears and answer all of their questions, and by the end of our conversation, they seemed much calmer and more hopeful.
I helped a patient who was struggling to cope with chronic pain to find some relief through relaxation techniques and guided imagery.
I advocated for a patient who wasn’t receiving adequate pain management, and their relief and gratitude were incredibly rewarding.
I was there to hold the hand of a dying patient and comfort their family, and it was a profound experience.

What aspect of nursing are you most passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about advocating for my patients and ensuring they receive compassionate and holistic care.
I’m driven by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments.
I find immense satisfaction in helping patients understand their conditions and empowering them to take control of their health.
I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where patients feel heard, valued, and respected.

What is your absolute favorite part of a typical workday?

That moment when a patient smiles and thanks me for making a difference in their day.
The feeling of satisfaction I get after successfully advocating for a patient’s needs and knowing I made a positive impact.
The intellectual stimulation of learning something new about a patient’s condition or a new medical procedure.
The camaraderie and support I share with my fellow nurses—we’re a team, and we’re in it together.

How would your friends and family describe your approach to caring for others?

They would say I’m a natural caregiver—patient, empathetic, and always willing to lend a listening ear.
They would describe me as fiercely protective of those I love, always going above and beyond to ensure their well-being.
They might say I’m a bit of a mother hen, always looking out for others and making sure they feel loved and supported.
They would probably call me a good listener, someone who is always there for the people they care about, no matter what.

Tell us a little about your perspective on the nurse-patient relationship.

I believe it’s a sacred bond built on trust, respect, and empathy.
It’s a partnership where both parties work together to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.
It’s a dynamic and ever-evolving relationship that requires ongoing communication, understanding, and compassion.
It’s a privilege to be let into someone’s life at their most vulnerable and to be entrusted with their care.

If you could choose any superpower to help you in your nursing career, which one would you choose and why?

The ability to instantly alleviate suffering. It breaks my heart to see my patients in pain, and being able to take that pain away would be the greatest gift.
The power to heal with a touch.
The gift of perfect empathy, allowing me to fully understand and share the emotional experiences of my patients.
The ability to communicate flawlessly with anyone, regardless of language barriers or cognitive differences.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when a patient expresses anger or frustration towards you?

I remind myself that their anger is likely directed at the situation, not at me personally.
I try to understand the root cause of their emotions and see the situation from their perspective.
I take a deep breath and remind myself to respond with empathy and compassion, even if it’s difficult.
I focus on active listening and try to de-escalate the situation by validating their feelings and offering support.

What affects you the most?

Witnessing a patient’s physical pain affects me deeply. It’s hard to see someone suffering, and I often wish I could take that pain away.
Seeing a patient struggle emotionally stays with me. I want to do everything I can to provide comfort and support, but sometimes I feel helpless.
Feeling like I failed to help a patient is the worst. It’s a heavy burden to carry when a patient’s condition worsens or they don’t respond to treatment.
Dealing with difficult family members can be incredibly draining. It’s important to remember that they’re under a lot of stress, but it can be hard to manage their emotions and expectations.

What’s your idea of the perfect healthcare system?

One that prioritizes preventative care and early intervention.
A system that is accessible and affordable for everyone, regardless of income or insurance status.
One that values and supports its healthcare providers, providing them with the resources they need to thrive.
A system that focuses on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and promotes overall well-being.

What is your strongest asset as a nurse?

My empathy and compassion—I genuinely care about my patients and want to make a positive difference in their lives.
My ability to stay calm under pressure.
My critical thinking skills and ability to problem-solve effectively in challenging situations.
My unwavering dedication to my patients and my commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

How prepared do you feel to handle a situation where a patient’s mental state is rapidly deteriorating?

I feel prepared to assess the situation, maintain a calm demeanor, and take appropriate actions to ensure the safety of the patient and those around them.
I’m a bit apprehensive about facing such a situation, but I trust my training and instincts to guide me.
I would rely on my team for support and call for assistance if needed.
I would focus on de-escalation techniques and try to create a safe and calming environment for the patient.

What happens if you discover a patient is refusing treatment due to a deeply held belief that contradicts medical advice?

I respect their autonomy and right to make their own decisions, but I also have a duty to educate them about the potential risks and benefits of their choices.
I try to understand their perspective and beliefs, engage in open communication, and explore alternative approaches that might be acceptable to them.
I would document the situation thoroughly and consult with the healthcare team to determine the best course of action.
I would prioritize the patient’s safety and well-being while respecting their right to self-determination.

What do you think you need to improve on to become an even more effective and compassionate nurse?

I need to work on setting better boundaries between my work life and personal life to prevent burnout.
I could improve my communication skills, particularly when it comes to difficult conversations.
I want to deepen my understanding of different cultures and backgrounds to provide culturally sensitive care.
I’m always looking for opportunities to expand my knowledge base and stay updated on the latest research and best practices.

How often do you actively reflect on your interactions with patients to identify areas for growth?

I try to make it a habit to reflect on my day after every shift, thinking about what went well and what I could have done differently.
I reflect on my experiences more deeply when I’ve had a particularly challenging interaction with a patient or family member.
I tend to focus my reflections on specific events or situations that stood out, rather than on a daily basis.
I am working on incorporating more regular reflection into my routine.

How confident are you in your ability to apply psychological principles to enhance patient care?

I am confident in my ability to apply these principles, but I am always striving to learn and grow in this area.
I’m still developing my skills, but I’m eager to learn more and become more confident in this aspect of my practice.
I believe that understanding psychology is crucial for effective nursing care, and I am committed to continually improving my knowledge and skills.
I am comfortable with the basics, but I recognize that there is always more to learn in the ever-evolving field of psychology.

How do you handle a situation where you feel like your emotional reserves are depleted and you are on the verge of burnout?

I recognize the importance of self-care and prioritize activities that help me to recharge, such as spending time with loved ones, exercising, or engaging in hobbies.
I reach out to my support system, talking to colleagues, friends, or family members about what I’m going through.
I may need to take a step back from work, using vacation time or personal days to rest and recuperate.
I might seek professional help from a therapist or counselor to develop coping mechanisms and address any underlying issues.

Do you have a strong support system in place outside of work, such as close friends, family, or a therapist, to help you process the emotional challenges of nursing?

Yes, I have a wonderful support system that I can lean on when I need to talk things through.
I have a few close friends and family members who understand the demands of my job, but I could be better at reaching out for support.
I’m more of a private person and tend to deal with things on my own, but I’m realizing the importance of having a support system.
I’m working on building stronger connections and developing my support network.

How well do you stick to your convictions about a patient’s best interests when faced with pressure from superiors or differing medical opinions?

I stand my ground and advocate fiercely for my patients, even in the face of opposition.
I carefully consider all perspectives and strive to find a solution that aligns with both my professional judgment and the patient’s needs.
I may need to seek guidance from mentors or trusted colleagues to navigate complex ethical dilemmas.
I always prioritize the patient’s well-being and advocate for their best interests, but I also respect the expertise of my colleagues.

Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your understanding of mental disorders?

I believe that mental disorders are complex conditions influenced by a variety of factors, including biological, psychological, social, and environmental influences.
I recognize that while biological factors play a role, psychological and social influences are also significant.
I understand that medication can be an important part of treatment for some individuals, but it’s not always the only solution, and a holistic approach is crucial.
I’m continually learning more about mental health and the multifaceted nature of mental disorders.

To what degree do you experience anxiety or stress related to the emotional demands of your job as a nurse?

I’m able to manage my stress levels effectively and rarely feel overwhelmed by the emotional demands of my job.
I experience stress and anxiety from time to time, but I have developed coping mechanisms to manage these feelings.
I find the emotional challenges of nursing to be quite draining, and I sometimes struggle to switch off from work.
I worry about the long-term impact that these emotional demands could have on my own mental health.

Which of these best describes your current approach to self-care?

I prioritize self-care and have a consistent routine that helps me to recharge and prevent burnout.
I know self-care is important, but I struggle to make time for it when I’m feeling overwhelmed or busy.
I tend to prioritize the needs of others over my own, often putting my patients, family, and friends before myself.
I’m not sure what self-care looks like for me or how to incorporate it into my life effectively.

What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to effectively caring for patients with mental health needs?

Feeling like I don’t always have the time or resources to provide the level of care that I would like.
Navigating the stigma surrounding mental health and advocating for my patients’ needs within a system that doesn’t always prioritize mental well-being.
Feeling underprepared to deal with patients experiencing acute mental health crises.
Balancing the emotional demands of caring for patients with mental health needs with my own emotional well-being.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when a patient’s family member becomes overly demanding or critical of your care?

I try to remember that their behavior is often driven by fear and concern for their loved one, even if it’s misdirected.
I take a deep breath and remind myself to remain professional and compassionate, even if it’s difficult.
I try to understand their perspective and see if there’s anything I can do to address their concerns.
I document the interaction and, if necessary, involve a supervisor or colleague for support.

How do you handle a situation where you made a mistake, even a small one, that impacts a patient’s care?

I acknowledge the mistake, take responsibility for my actions, and focus on rectifying the situation and preventing it from happening again.
I would feel terrible, but I would use it as a learning opportunity to improve my practice.
I would be transparent with the patient and their family about what happened and apologize for any inconvenience or concern it caused.
I would follow the appropriate reporting procedures and document the incident thoroughly.

How would you describe your relationship to the ethical dilemmas that nurses frequently face?

I approach ethical dilemmas with a thoughtful and reasoned approach, seeking guidance when needed.
I recognize that they are an inevitable part of nursing practice and try to stay informed about ethical principles and guidelines.
I find ethical dilemmas to be challenging, but I believe they provide opportunities for growth and reflection.
I rely on my moral compass and professional code of ethics to guide my decisions.

Are you stuck in a cycle of prioritizing everyone else’s needs above your own, often leading to exhaustion and resentment?

I recognize the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing my own well-being to avoid burnout.
I struggle with this, as I have a natural inclination to care for others, but I’m working on finding a healthier balance.
I tend to put the needs of my patients first, but I’m learning that I can’t pour from an empty cup.
I’m actively working on setting better boundaries and making self-care a non-negotiable part of my life.

What would you say are your top three struggles right now when it comes to balancing the demands of your nursing career with your personal life?

Finding time for myself and my loved ones, feeling guilty when I’m not at work, and switching off from work mode when I’m at home.
Dealing with compassion fatigue and emotional exhaustion, managing work-related stress, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Setting boundaries with work, prioritizing self-care, and dealing with the emotional toll of caring for others.
Feeling like I’m constantly on call, struggling to find time for hobbies and interests, and feeling guilty about taking time for myself.

What is your ultimate career goal within the nursing profession?

To become a leader and mentor in my field, sharing my passion for holistic nursing and inspiring others to prioritize both the physical and emotional well-being of their patients.
To specialize in a specific area of nursing that I am deeply passionate about, such as oncology, pediatrics, or mental health.
To continue learning and growing throughout my career, expanding my knowledge and skills to provide the best possible care for my patients.
To make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of my patients and their families, one interaction at a time.

What do you think is missing in your quest to provide truly holistic and compassionate care to your patients?

More time with my patients, less administrative burden, and a greater focus on mental health in our healthcare system.
Greater support from administration, more resources for patient education, and increased awareness of the mind-body connection among healthcare providers.
A more collaborative approach to healthcare, with better communication and coordination between different disciplines.
More opportunities for continuing education and professional development in the area of psychology and mental health.

What is your current level of expertise in understanding and addressing the spiritual needs of your patients?

I am comfortable and confident in addressing the spiritual needs of my patients, recognizing the importance of spirituality in the healing process.
I am still developing in this area, learning how to approach spiritual conversations with sensitivity and respect for diverse beliefs.
I tend to focus more on the physical and emotional needs of my patients, but I’m open to learning more about incorporating spirituality into my care.
I believe that spiritual care is an important aspect of holistic nursing, but I need more training and experience to feel fully competent in this area.

A patient’s family member angrily confronts you, accusing you of not doing enough to alleviate their loved one’s pain. How do you respond?

I stay calm, listen to their concerns without becoming defensive, and try to understand the situation from their perspective.
I acknowledge their feelings, validate their concerns, and explain the pain management plan in a clear and compassionate manner.
I offer support and reassurance, while also setting boundaries if the behavior becomes abusive or disrespectful.
I document the interaction and inform my supervisor, seeking guidance and support in managing the situation.

What emotion do you experience most often during your workday as a nurse?

Compassion. I am deeply moved by the experiences of my patients and their families, and I feel privileged to be able to offer comfort and support during difficult times.
Frustration. The healthcare system can be incredibly frustrating to navigate, and I often feel frustrated by the lack of resources and support for my patients.
Anxiety. I worry about my patients’ well-being, and I sometimes feel anxious about making a mistake that could impact their care.
Satisfaction. I find deep satisfaction in knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my patients.

Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis?

Making a medical error is a constant worry. I strive for perfection in my practice, and the thought of making a mistake that could harm a patient keeps me up at night.
Being treated disrespectfully by a patient or their family member is an unfortunate reality of the job.
Not having enough time to provide adequate care to all of my patients is a daily struggle. The nursing shortage is real, and it often feels like there’s never enough time to give each patient the attention they deserve.
Bringing my work-related stress home with me is a constant battle. It’s hard to switch off from “nurse mode” when I’m constantly surrounded by suffering.

How fulfilled and drained do you feel in your role as a nurse?

Incredibly fulfilled but also quite drained. It’s a deeply rewarding profession, but it also takes a toll emotionally, physically, and mentally.
More fulfilled than drained. I love my job and wouldn’t trade it for anything, even though it can be challenging at times.
I’m starting to feel more drained than fulfilled. I’m worried about burnout and considering making a change.
I’m still trying to find my footing and figure out if nursing is the right fit for me long-term.

How well do you balance providing emotional support to your patients with maintaining professional boundaries?

I have a good grasp on maintaining professional boundaries while still being an empathetic and supportive presence for my patients.
I sometimes struggle to find the right balance. I want to be there for my patients, but I also need to protect my own emotional well-being.
I tend to err on the side of caution, perhaps holding back a bit emotionally to avoid crossing any lines.
I’m working on developing stronger boundaries and being more mindful of my own needs.

Learn more