My personal nursing philosophy is based on and built around the act of compassionate care. Compassionate care must be done by placing the needs of your patient ahead of your own needs. For me, personally, I believe that you must be able to effectively empathize with the patient to provide the best care possible. If I am constantly trying to place myself in my patient’s situation, removing all bias, I am more likely to be open to understand how to better serve them in their current situation. In 2002 when my father became suddenly ill, my family and I experienced many different situations where nursing philosophies were displayed. There were nurses that made such an enormous impact on my life, both positive and negative. It was obvious and evident who the nurses were that had a genuine investment in my father’s care because they also cared for our family. I, too, believe that caring for the patient also should encompass caring for the entire family unit. Compassionate care is critical to aiding in the overall health and healing of the patient.