"Before nursing school, I worked as a nursing assistant and faced an ethical dilemma relating to the incompetence of one of my peers. I liked her, but she was not a good nursing assistant. She often violated protocols on the shift and caused hardships for the rest of the staff. It was tough because I didn't want to get her in trouble, but I also knew the right thing to do was to address her behavior. I tried talking to her one on one to remind her of handwashing protocols and minor issues, but when she began to break the rules relating to patient safety, I knew I had to report it to my supervisor. I always want to show compassion and kindness to my colleagues, but when they make decisions that endanger patients, other staff, or the company, I have to speak up, even when it's uncomfortable. I tried to resolve the issue by speaking with her directly, but when that fails, I know to follow the process of escalation."

"I once worked with a nurse who I found to be pleasant and respectful to patients usually; however, I noticed her gradually becoming more agitated and rude to patients. I asked her to get lunch with me one day, and I was genuine in asking how she had been lately, and through the conversation, I discovered she was going through a lot of personal problems. We talked at length, and I mentioned I had noticed a change in her behavior and attitude at work. I told her how much I enjoyed working with her and reassured her that this conversation was just between us, but I did bring to her attention some of her behaviors. She seemed like she didn't realize how she was behaving and appreciated me coming to her with my concerns. After our conversation, I observed her being more professional and treating patients respectfully and kindly. I was glad I could have that conversation with her rather than going to a manager so that she could self-correct and get back on the right track without disciplinary action. I know we all go through things in life, and we must remember to practice compassion and kindness, not just to our patients, but also to our colleagues."