Kayleigh Murtagh
July 2025
Kayleigh
Murtagh
,
NA
Emergency Department
Bedfordshire Hospitals
Bedford
United Kingdom
These are the small acts that reveal a nurse who truly cares, thinks, and remembers what matters to the person behind the patient.
Kayleigh demonstrated some of the most compassionate, emotionally intelligent, and deeply human care I have ever experienced during a very difficult and vulnerable time in my life. She consistently went above and beyond what might be expected in her role, not just “doing her job,” but truly caring.
One poignant example occurred around 2 a.m. during a night of heavy emotional distress. Kayleigh followed me outside into the rain, not because she was instructed or expected to, but because she wanted to ensure my safety. This wasn’t about protocol or rules; it was about presence, kindness, and a sincere concern for my well-being. I genuinely believe her actions that night prevented a serious crisis.
Throughout her shift, Kayleigh remained quietly vigilant, aware of my distress and significant thoughts of self-harm, but always in a way that felt deeply personal and warm rather than clinical or cold. She watched out for me in a way that made me feel seen, safe, and cared for, not just monitored.
A simple but incredibly meaningful moment was when Kayleigh said, “You can talk to me at any time, you know where I am.” At a time when I was struggling to hold on, those words meant more than she could have known.
During mental health admissions, often the greatest need is for a nurse who will listen without judgment, and Kayleigh offered exactly that, naturally and effortlessly. Her calm manner, approachable face, and genuine presence created a safe space just by being herself.
She also demonstrated thoughtful attention to small details that make a huge difference: for example, when I was at risk to myself, she took my keys sensitively and without confrontation, a moment where I trusted her completely, which is rare for me. She even remembered to return my hospital socks at 5 a.m. after locking them away safely. These are the small acts that reveal a nurse who truly cares, thinks, and remembers what matters to the person behind the patient.
Near the end of her shift, I made sure to express my gratitude because I want Bedford Hospital to know that Kayleigh prevented a crisis that night and quite possibly more than one.
She’s very mature I’m supposed to be older than her by two years but you feel safe when she’s around, knowing I won’t be judged to hand dangerous things over. No backlash. Calm. Collected. Probably a good chat too.
One poignant example occurred around 2 a.m. during a night of heavy emotional distress. Kayleigh followed me outside into the rain, not because she was instructed or expected to, but because she wanted to ensure my safety. This wasn’t about protocol or rules; it was about presence, kindness, and a sincere concern for my well-being. I genuinely believe her actions that night prevented a serious crisis.
Throughout her shift, Kayleigh remained quietly vigilant, aware of my distress and significant thoughts of self-harm, but always in a way that felt deeply personal and warm rather than clinical or cold. She watched out for me in a way that made me feel seen, safe, and cared for, not just monitored.
A simple but incredibly meaningful moment was when Kayleigh said, “You can talk to me at any time, you know where I am.” At a time when I was struggling to hold on, those words meant more than she could have known.
During mental health admissions, often the greatest need is for a nurse who will listen without judgment, and Kayleigh offered exactly that, naturally and effortlessly. Her calm manner, approachable face, and genuine presence created a safe space just by being herself.
She also demonstrated thoughtful attention to small details that make a huge difference: for example, when I was at risk to myself, she took my keys sensitively and without confrontation, a moment where I trusted her completely, which is rare for me. She even remembered to return my hospital socks at 5 a.m. after locking them away safely. These are the small acts that reveal a nurse who truly cares, thinks, and remembers what matters to the person behind the patient.
Near the end of her shift, I made sure to express my gratitude because I want Bedford Hospital to know that Kayleigh prevented a crisis that night and quite possibly more than one.
She’s very mature I’m supposed to be older than her by two years but you feel safe when she’s around, knowing I won’t be judged to hand dangerous things over. No backlash. Calm. Collected. Probably a good chat too.