Good nurses possess a combination of personal and professional qualities that make them successful at their jobs, Eileen Williamson, MSN, RN, wrote in a blog post for Nurse.com.
Ms. Williamson said good nurses often demonstrate the following seven qualities:
1. Good nurses are respectful and compassionate, helping them connect with patients on a personal level.
2. They are also strong communicators who can speak openly with colleagues and patients.
3. Critical-thinking skills help good nurses identify ways to improve care protocols.
4. Good nurses have strong attention to detail, which helps them follow specific medical orders and individualize patients' care plans.
5. They have strong time management and delegation skills to maintain patient care responsibilities.
6. They are also very adaptable and flexible when they face changes on the job.
7. Good nurses are also team players who work with patients, families and the rest of the healthcare team to provide high-quality care.