When John Blakeman decided to become a registered nurse, he had no idea how much he would learn about himself, about patients, and about life. A valuable lesson he learned in nursing school was that every patient tells a story. Some stories are told verbally; some stories are told non-verbally; and other stories are only recognized after critical reflection. Join Blakeman as he explores his time in nursing school, reflecting on the lessons he learned from patients and also recounting his triumphs and tragedies. From trying to convince a patient that salt is not approved by the FDA as a pain reliever to holding the hand of a patient in her last days of life, the stories are real, and the lessons are significant. Indeed, nursing students encounter unique circumstances that can be challenging on a daily basis, and this book is a glimpse into some of those situations. Whether you are a student nurse, nurse educator, or have no connection to nursing at all, you will take away valuable lessons from this book. PRAISE FOR LEARNING FROM PATIENTS: Blakeman's Learning from Patients "depicts the evolution that takes place within an aspiring nurse during his journey in nursing education through his self-assessment and reflection. He shares moments that are insightful for both nursing students and faculty." -- Dr. Gloria Brummer, DNP, RN, CNE, CEN "There is no doubt that the nursing profession is as challenging as it is rewarding. Generally, the initial realization of this fact comes in nursing school. As a former nursing student, this book touches my heart and brings back all the memories of my own challenges and triumphs in nursing school. As a nursing educator, one of the most rewarding aspects of my career is watching the personal and professional growth of nursing students throughout their education. Nurses, nurse educators, nursing students, and anyone interested in the nursing profession will be able to relate to the emotions and experiences evoked from reading John's personal accounts of his journey toward becoming a professional nurse. For anyone considering a career in nursing, this book is an open and honest account of the big challenges and even bigger rewards you are facing. For practicing nurses, let this book take you back and remind you of the accomplishments you've achieved in your own journey and reaffirm that you make a difference." -- Lizabeth Hernandez, MSN, RN