Reflect on the three most challenging patients. What was most challenging for each? 

The three most challenging patients I have encountered had very different issues that made them difficult to care for. The first patient was an elderly man with advanced Alzheimer’s disease who experienced frequent episodes of belligerence and aggression, making it difficult to calm him down or get him to comply with instructions. The second patient was a young woman suffering from severe depression and anxiety which caused her to be constantly on edge and highly suspicious of anyone trying to help her – leading to numerous outbursts during our interactions.

The third patient was a middle-aged man dealing with addiction issues who often became agitated when asked about his substance abuse history or any plans he had going forward in order to improve his situation. In all instances, the biggest challenge I faced was finding the right balance between being compassionate while still maintaining my professional boundaries – providing both empathy as well as guidance in order for them to find their own paths towards recovery.