The power of patient advocacy
Thank you for publishing Michael Campbell's article, "A Voice for Laura" (February 2021). I strongly value Mr. Campbell's application of his nursing knowledge, skills, and ethical standards to his mother-in-law's concerning situation. I also value the author's use of storytelling to express what mindful active listening, intentional assertive advocacy, and collaborative communication look like in one patient situation. By offering solutions based on his nursing knowledge and available resources, he epitomized an ethical professional nurse advocating for a patient.
-BETH FURLONG, PhD, JD, RN
Omaha, Neb.
Recognizing White privilege
"The Elephant in the Room" (December 2020) was a thoughtful and timely article about racism in nursing. Over the last year, I've been involved in a racial reconciliation class and had heard some of the thoughts the author shared. It is an uncomfortable subject, but I'm learning to listen, lament, and become aware of my status as a privileged White person. It's something I've taken for granted and had never thought about. I am continuing my journey and hope to be a part of the solution to racism and not part of the problem.
-ELMA DOERKSEN, RN
Boise, Idaho