During my first hospital shift, I had a conversation with a middle-aged woman recovering from a severe chest infection and receiving oxygen therapy. As we discussed her hospital stay, she revealed feeling suffocated, both physically and emotionally, by her illness and lack of control over her condition. She described experiencing a recurring nightmare in which she woke up unable to move or speak, surrounded by mourning family members, only to find herself safely in her hospital bed upon waking. This nightmare intensified her fear of aging and declining health, causing significant mental anguish.

I found her description haunting, highlighting the commonality of the profound fear of illness and mortality among patients I’ve encountered. Her story resonated with me deeply and I realised fears patients have, especially relating to their mental health (which they may disregard for fear of embarrassment), are not always addressed in the hectic hospital environment. This often leads to patients feeling isolated and restless. This highlighted the importance of really connecting with one’s patients and perhaps looking past their externally evident feelings and outward persona to ensure they feel as comfortable as possible in such a frenetic atmosphere as a hospital ward. By truly engaging with a patient, a healthcare professional can potentially alleviate a patients’ worries and provide them with some mental comfort.

The subject of this drawing, titled ‘Deeper Waters’, is a hand clad in bandages resting on the sheets of the hospital bed. It is a scene described by the patient from her nightmare. I used ink pens to create this piece as I felt this is a sombre topic, and using the ink medium allowed me to convey serious sentiments without detracting from the meaning behind the painting. With scumbling and stippling techniques, I tried to depict some of the emotional turmoil described, as the shaky scumbling lines convey fear and apprehension. I created a semi-realistic piece, with an initial appearance of realism from afar and discernible quivering lines upon closer inspection. This deliberate approach illustrates how patients may seem outwardly composed but can unveil inner turmoil upon further exploration.

In making this piece, I was able to reflect on the difficulties patients face emotionally when they are admitted to wards, and in other healthcare settings. Many patients also experience isolation due to their health, even if they have strong social bonds, as dealing with a health issue can be emotionally taxing and patients may not want to share this burden.

Interacting with patients does not only involve conversation and diagnostic techniques – but looking beyond that and taking a holistic approach to care to ensure that a patient feels comfortable and their physical, social, emotional health is optimised.