“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” – Aesop
As we approach the holidays and especially Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving, I wanted to focus on gratitude. In the field of nursing, especially orthopaedic nursing, gratitude is both a guiding principle and a sustaining force. The daily work of caring for patients recovering from fractures, joint replacements, trauma or spinal surgeries demands not only clinical expertise but also deep empathy and patience. Gratitude allows us to find meaning in even the most challenging situations. It reminds us that each interaction—with patients, families, and colleagues—offers an opportunity to heal, to teach, and to grow.
For patients, recovery in orthopaedic care is often a long and painful journey. We witness firsthand the physical and emotional toll of immobility and dependence. Yet, it is in these vulnerable moments that gratitude often shines most brightly. Patients express thanks for a reassuring presence during a difficult transfer, for pain relief after surgery, or for encouragement during physical therapy. These expressions of appreciation reaffirm our purpose and strengthen the bond of trust that lies at the heart of healing.
Equally important is the gratitude we extend toward our colleagues and the profession itself. Orthopaedic nursing is a collaborative discipline, requiring close coordination with surgeons, therapists, and support staff. Gratitude fosters teamwork by acknowledging each member’s contribution to patient recovery. It also encourages reflection—recognizing how far one has come in skill, confidence, and compassion. In a profession often marked by long hours and emotional and physical fatigue, taking time to be thankful can rekindle motivation and resilience.
Finally, gratitude toward our patients themselves deepens our understanding of humanity. Every patient teaches lessons about endurance, adaptability, and hope. Orthopaedic nurses who practice gratitude learn to see beyond the injury—to the person who is fighting to walk again, to regain independence, to reclaim life.
In essence, gratitude transforms orthopaedic nursing from a series of tasks into a vocation of service and connection. It uplifts the nurse, empowers the patient, and strengthens the healing community.
“An attitude of gratitude goes a long way when it comes to physical and emotional healing.” — Jill Bolte Taylor
Below are some ways to make gratitude a daily focus.
- Write in a journal: Document what you’re grateful for daily.
- Send thank you notes: Express your appreciation to those who you work with and those who have made a difference in your life.
- Create a gratitude jar: Write down things you’re grateful for and place them in a jar. Read them when you need a reminder.
- Practice Mindfulness: Pay attention to the present and appreciate the small moments.
- If you pray: Offer gratitude in your prayers.
- Meditate: Reflect on your blessings through meditation.
Matt Lowe MDiv, MSN, APRN FNP-C, ONC
President
National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses