Everyone needs a nurse friend. They might cancel plans because of the rota, and they might fall asleep at your party, but they are the friend you call when life gets real. Here’s why.
1. They stay calm in a crisis
Someone faints, someone cuts their hand, someone’s child has a fever. While everyone else panics, your nurse friend is already handling it.
2. They are good listeners
Nurses spend all day listening to people at their most vulnerable. They know how to listen without judging and when to just let you talk.
3. You can’t embarrass them
Strange symptom? Awkward question? Weird rash? Nothing you say will shock them. They’ve seen worse before lunch.
4. They will be honest with you
If you need to see a healthcare provider, they’ll tell you. If you’re being unreasonable, they’ll probably tell you that too, kindly but clearly.
5. They show up
When things go wrong, nurses turn up. With soup, with practical help, with a plan.
6. They are excellent at organising
Juggling eight patients teaches you to plan. Holidays, moves, weddings: your nurse friend can organise them.
7. They have the best stories
Without breaking confidentiality, of course. But a nurse’s stories about life, death, people and the strange things that happen at 3am are unforgettable.
8. They have a fantastic sense of humour
Nurses laugh at things others wouldn’t dare. Spending time with a nurse means laughing a lot.
9. They notice when you’re not okay
Nurses are trained to spot small changes. They’re often the first to notice when a friend is struggling, even when that friend is pretending to be fine.
10. They are loyal
The bonds nurses form on hard shifts last for life. They bring that same loyalty to their friendships.
11. They appreciate the little things
A hot meal, a quiet evening, a full night’s sleep, a friend who understands why they cancelled. Nurses know how valuable simple things are.
12. They make you a better person
Spending time with people who care for others every day reminds you to be kinder, more patient and more grateful.
How to be a good friend to a nurse
- Be flexible with plans. Rotas change.
- Don’t take a cancelled plan personally.
- Check in after they’ve had a hard week.
- Let them talk about something other than work.
- Remember they need looking after too.
Tag your nurse best friend and tell them you appreciate them.
Just moved abroad and looking for friends? Read 15 ways to make friends in a new country.
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