COMPASSION

This is essential in nursing, fostering trust and addressing patients’ emotional, psychological, and physical needs. Research shows compassionate care significantly improves patient outcomes (Dalvandi et al., 2019). It is a professional necessity that enhances well-being and strengthens therapeutic relationships, vital for achieving excellence in patient-centered care.

For me, compassion originates from my upbringing in a culturally rich Nigerian community, where collective care and support were fundamental values. Observing family members extend kindness and comfort to others taught me the profound impact of even the smallest acts of compassion. As a nursing student, this value inspires me to prioritize patient-centered care and approach every scenario with sensitivity and empathy. By showing patients and families that I genuinely care about their well-being, I aim to foster trust and create a supportive environment that benefits not only the patient but also my growth as a nurse.

INTEGRITY

It is a quality that underpins trust in nursing, ensuring honesty, accountability, and ethical practice. Research highlights its importance in professionalism and fostering respect within healthcare teams (Poorchangizi et al., 2019). Integrity guides ethical decision-making and builds the foundation for safe, reliable, and high-quality nursing care.

My understanding of integrity was shaped by early lessons in honesty and accountability within my family and community. Growing up in a culture where one’s actions and words held great significance taught me the importance of doing what is right, even when it is challenging. As a nursing student, integrity guides me to approach my studies with sincerity and commitment. I strive to resist shortcuts, focus on mastering foundational knowledge, and reflect honestly on my progress. By embracing integrity, I prepare myself to provide ethical, safe, and high-quality care while fostering trust and respect in my future practice.

EMPHATHY

This is one of the values that connects nurses to patients by understanding their emotions and experiences, improving trust and outcomes. Research shows empathetic behaviors enhance patient satisfaction and communication (Bas-Sarmiento et al., 2020). Empathy is essential for holistic care, addressing patients’ needs beyond the physical, and strengthening nurse-patient relationships.

For me, empathy grew from personal experiences of being cared for during illness. In those vulnerable moments, the comforting presence of someone who truly understood what I was going through made all the difference. As a nursing student, empathy shapes my interactions by reminding me to actively listen, respect different perspectives, and consider each patient’s unique challenges. It also influences how I connect with peers and instructors, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding. Empathy is not just an emotional response but a skill that requires practice and reflection, enabling me to provide care that truly addresses the whole person.

GROWTH

Growth through lifelong learning ensures nurses stay updated on evolving healthcare advancements. Research underscores its role in improving adaptability, skills, and professional excellence (Hussein et al., 2021). Continuous education is critical for personal and professional development, preparing nurses to meet ever-changing healthcare demands effectively.

For me, the value of growth originates from witnessing the transformative power of education in my community and family. Education opened doors and created opportunities, inspiring me to embrace challenges and strive for self-improvement. As a first-year nursing student, growth motivates me to master foundational concepts and approach mistakes as opportunities to learn. It reminds me that nursing is a lifelong journey, requiring constant reflection, curiosity, and dedication. By committing to growth, I ensure that I will remain competent, adaptable, and prepared to meet the demands of an ever-changing healthcare system.