The evening before, I had been thinking about the poor prognosis for my illness, which had weighed heavily on my mind. The next morning, Mr. Roters asked me how I was feeling, as was his routine. “Physically, pretty good,” I said. After adjusting my IVs, he asked, “And how are you feeling mentally?”

I hadn't wanted to bring this up myself—what could a nurse possibly say about it? But I was very touched that Mr. Roters asked about it (and then went on to give me information about psychological support options). It made me feel that someone was listening and cared. His caring attitude towards patients is what makes Mr. Roters so special.

I also observed it in the way he cared for my changing roommates. Mr. Roters asks questions, listens, and understands. He also observes closely, recognizes problems on his own initiative, and solves them immediately. In addition, he willingly explains what measures are being taken and why they are important. This is also a way of taking patients seriously and giving them support.

Nurses like Mr. Roters play a big part in making patients' stay in the ward, which can sometimes be very stressful due to serious illness, more bearable and humane.