I have been a nurse for almost seven years, which to many nurses, is a short amount of time; however, the past Sunday I learned an amazing lesson from someone who has been in nursing for less than three months. Rachel had a difficult patient. I know the patient was difficult because I had the patient the day before.

I am embarrassed to admit that the patient had been caught smoking in her room TWO times. She had several yelling matches with the physicians involved in her case. The patient's husband was so exhausted by her behavior that he had to go home. The day Rachel had the patient, it was becoming increasingly difficult to remain patient with her.

The patient mentioned that she was praying for help through this because the patient herself knew she was being difficult. Rachel asked if we could pray with her. The patient agreed and Rachel prayed. Rachel, the nurse who has less than 3 months experience, prayed with this patient and completely changed this patient's behavior!

I know I would have never been brave enough to offer to pray with someone. I tell patients all the time that I will be praying for them, but I had never actually stopped and prayed with them.

It was one of the biggest moments I've experienced as a nurse. The patient calmed down and began to cry. I can honestly say that Rachel's prayer gave me renewed strength. This patient needed Rachel and through the Lord's guidance, Rachel changed this patient's behavior and entire outlook.

We can all learn from Rachel. Patients are in vulnerable situations and maybe when the time is appropriate, we should just stop, hold our patient's hands, and pray.