Early on the morning of my surgery, I was hurried to a cold, sterile X-ray suite. I needed one final diagnostic test just before a life-changing mastectomy. I was fearful, unsure of what lay in my future. All I wanted in that moment was a warm and caring connection, a gesture of support. But what happened only deepened my suffering. My technician did not even offer her name or an explanation of the test.
In everyday nursing practice, we need the leading of the still, small voice of God—at the bedside, in the classroom, leading an organization. A simple responsiveness to God in everyday events can create significant moments.
As nurses, how can we help patients with a painful past? The experience of trauma in people’s lives has a direct impact on their health behaviors, particularly an increased risk of mortality from chronic illness.
Making homebound visits is an important part of the ministry of the church, especially for older seniors who are vulnerable to isolation and poor quality of life. Yet too often they are neglected and left longing for visitors.
Former NCF Director Grace Wallace reminds us of the opportunities we have as Christian nurses to address the spiritual needs of patients with professional, compassionate care for the whole person.