Joe's story: reflection on a difficult interaction between a nurse and a patient's wife

Unfortunately, not all nursing interactions are positive. Incidents can occur that leave nurses with a variety of negative emotions. This paper examines one such interaction that occurred between the author, a dying patient, and the patient's wife. The author reflects on and attempts to explain the feelings aroused by the situation through the use of psychodynamic theories. The characteristic personality and coping styles of the main participants are discussed. Issues relating to staff support are also highlighted.