Compassionate Care

compassion

A deep awareness of the suffering of others coupled with the desire to alleviate it.

empathy

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

compassionate presence

Being physically, emotionally, and mentally attentive to a patient.

dignity

Respecting the inherent worth and autonomy of every patient.

therapeutic communication

Purposeful, goal-directed, patient-centered communication used to support healing.

emotional intelligence

The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions and the emotions of others.

holistic care

Addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the patient.

caring behaviors

Actions that convey concern, kindness, and support.

implicit bias

Unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that influence understanding and decisions.

explicit bias

Conscious beliefs or attitudes that affect behavior.

stereotyping

Generalizing characteristics to an entire group, often inaccurately.

cultural humility

A lifelong commitment to self-evaluation, humility, and respectful partnerships with patients.

self-reflection

The process of examining one’s own thoughts, behaviors, and motivations.

microaggressions

Subtle verbal or behavioral slights that can harm or demean individuals.

equity

Ensuring fairness by recognizing and addressing individual needs and barriers.

bias mitigation

Strategies to reduce the influence of biases, such as training, feedback, and mindfulness.