Early in the BSN program, a mock patient was assigned to me for a case study. He was a 74 year old male admitted for appendicitis, but also had several comorbidities. The assignment instructions were to analyze a case study, from patient history, to vital signs, medications, treatment, and standard care expected for the disease processes involved. 
          Looking back, I remember getting off of work and reading over the assignment briefly, thinking it would not take me very long to complete, and leaving it for the last minute to complete. Reading it now, it is very generic feeling and is not a very personalized because enough time wasn't put into it. Although it contains several BSN essentials listed by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) such as quality and safety (by placing patient on fall precautions due to potential medication side effects), and interprofessional partnerships (communication between surgeon, intake physicians, and nurses or nursing staff about the patient care and progress). 
          If I could go back and give it a more personal touch, I would have discussed the importance of holistic or person-centered care on an emotional level. I believe that there is a need to show more compassion and understanding for patients who are going through an illness or were injured, and not JUST because they are your patient. In order for people to heal properly physically, the mind also has to be in a safe place to aid in the process. Therefore, putting ourselves in the shoes of our patients and their families, and having an understanding of what they may be going through, can make a big difference in someone's recovery. They want to trust the people caring for them. Knowing how to listen and communicate, and include a patient's preferences or just listen can build trust between the nurse and the patient that is beneficial for all people involved in the care.