Dear Colleagues,

This issue of BWH Nurse highlights the key relationships that clinical nurses must develop and attend to in order to achieve the shared goals included in our care delivery system, Relationship-Based Care. 

As we reflect on the narrative of Suzanne Fernandes, BSN, RN, we witness the power of continuity and healing that emerges from the nurse-patient relationship. Patients express tremendous relief and comfort every day in seeing a familiar face and feeling known and cared for by their nurses as unique human beings versus simply a diagnosis or a patient with problems to be managed.

Carin Bennett-Rizzo, MS, ANP-BC, COHN-S, discusses the importance of receiving the flu vaccine, showcasing the key relationship to self, which includes self-knowing and self-care. As nurses, we are in the unique position to minimize our most vulnerable patients' exposure to hospital-acquired influenza and infection and also minimize our own risk.

The article by Rosemary O'Malley, MSN, MBA, RN, regarding our Peer-to-Peer Feedback pilot, highlights relationship with colleagues. Emanating from a place of generosity that helps colleagues shine, our professional duty to invest in the success of peers is in service to our patients, families and communities. Part of this professional commitment is taking the time to acknowledge a job well done and offer sound advice or a helping hand when we see a colleague struggle. 

Finally, our relationship with diverse communities beyond the walls of BWH demonstrates our thirst for new knowledge and evidence-informed practice. It is only when we attend to all of these relationships that we will truly maximize the healing potential of each BWH nurse. 

 I hope that you all enjoyed some time of relaxation and renewal this summer. It's a pleasure to witness your practice and serve you every day. 

With warm regards,

Jackie Somerville, RN, PhD

Chief Nurse and Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services