Empathy: The Human Connection to Patient Care

We're here when you need us - for every care in the world. my.clevelandclinic.org/
Patient care is more than just healing -- it's building a connection that encompasses mind, body and soul. If you could stand in someone else's shoes . . . hear what they hear. See what they see. Feel what they feel. Would you treat them differently?
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#clevelandclinic #empathy #empathymatters #patientcare

[@crissy217]

I was an actress in this video (too shocked to comprehend diagnosis), and friends with most of the other actors but I still cry EVERY time i watch it! So proud to be part of this video and appreciative of the Cleveland Clinic for creating and sharing it with the world. We can all learn from this.

[@bobbyreilly6250]

Thank you ❤ One of my favorite videos of all time

[@feryalhaghanipour9701]

Thanks for sharing it. I cried too. The biggest lesson of it is Empathy. We need each other forever.❤

[@losangelesrams3472]

You were the “shocked” patient? Or were you the nurse trying to explain the treatment options? Both actresses did extremely well in their respective roles.

[@donniejean]

I’ve been watching this for years. I still cry every time as well. 😢❤

[@joweaver7705]

One of THE BEST videos about empathy of all time!

[@georgesipl4595]

I just "finished" battling cancer when I wrote the music for this. I'm pleased that you all enjoyed it! I'm quite pleased to be healthy again as well! George Sipl

[@devoncarter5004]

Where can I find the music for this video?

[@johnharris49]

That is so awesome and thoughtful. We just don't know what goes on behind the shell people see on the outside. Very soothing music and very touching video.

[@atangapaul1141]

Thanks.

[@cheringuyen498]

Beautiful music. Thank you!!

[@AaM-gx7xh]

Well it's great job well done you start with heart end with love

[@LindaBrandtmph]

What a great video for helping us all snap out of our bubbles and pay attention to others in a caring way.

[@noa7446]

I'm a med school student- first watched it during one of the classes called "humans & medicine". Since then I watch it once in a while. Just as a reminder in order to keep myself modest and compassionate.

[@pphilip8253]

+noa, thanks for being alert and sensitive! Please do not let the system changes you. Best wishes to reach your goal in your med school.

[@animechill2729]

same here noa

[@mitrimitri6503]

Very human and worship of God.

[@charleskidney4279]

Be careful, I have met too many detached, apathetic doctors and nurses. People in the game too long.

[@mindymjohal]

I work in healthcare (non-clinical) and always watch it here and there! Beautifully created and still makes me teary eyed.

[@robleeg]

I was showed this as a CNA in orientation at a Nursing Home. Excellent video. I was almost in tears. You never know what someone is going thur. Every Healthcare Worker should be shown this.

[@FaithfulandTrue949]

I've wore a few of those shoes, and God brought me through some intense battles - cant help but cry, working in caring profession everyone needs sincere empathy... what if it was you, hope everyone makes it through, sending you peace 🕊❤️🙏🏻

[@trosa7593]

I cannot believe how forgetful and inconsiderate I often am of the issues other people are facing. Not only should I be more grateful of my own situation, I should also work to be more empathetic of others' difficulties and struggles. Humans have a natural inclination towards egocentricity, but everyday we have the chance to be a little better than we were yesterday! Thank you Cleveland Clinic. This was very inspirational.

[@johnnyhostetler8181]

the Real SOLUTION LIES IN WHAT WE AS HUMANKIND ARE WILLING TO DO TO BALANCE THE WORLD THE BEST WE CAN...

[@amydillon2226]

T Rosa , Yea, unfortunately human's are simply not given that emotion N THEY ones who really care Read the comments This goes out to all 7 billion people N Only a few commented

[@aedanlizardi7147]

What if I called you a hippie?

[@sherryu]

how much sorrow can a being hold and still function. . . i found myself weeping, watching this video. we also have to take care of ourselves. love to you.

[@mariannegoldweber1577]

My sister and her team at the Cleveland Clinic created this award-winning video. I watch it frequently to remind myself of the power and healing of compassion. And no matter how busy we are, that we're all facing things that we may not know about. Empathy is what connects us to each other as humans on this journey. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@amybunker8539]

Is there anyway I can send you an email to get the names of the creators of this video? I’m a Nurse Educator and I need permission to use and an MP3.

[@clevelandclinic]

Hello - You can reach out to our newsroom for information on this video. [e-mail] Thank you

[@Neishalovee815]

Does anyone else cry when they watch this? I graduate from nursing school in december!!!

[@poh6887]

I cried .Do you know what it means ?

[@nabjani]

Yes. So touching... I watched two more ads like this one.

[@aranaedgardo]

Every time Nurse Robinson

[@Lavatera66]

I did

[@guerisondivine8368]

yes

[@TheMissgingermay]

That had me in tears - as a nurse but now also a patient with an incurable cancer this is so relevant. Brilliant. Well done Cleveland Clinic 10/10

[@LilitAbrahamyan]

Christine ...Hope you are doing better now

[@firask9774]

i hope you defeat this disease, for you and for the ones that love you... stay strong

[@Glokirk]

Firas Khraisat mm

[@science-y9209]

how are you now ? its two years after....

[@maryem8263]

How are you

[@azkiley]

Instructors had us watch this in nursing school. I watched it several times since, including today, the 10 year anniversary of becoming an RN. Thank you Cleveland Clinic for producing such a valid teaching video that hits the heart every single time.

[@truthful316]

I saw this over a year ago when working at the hospital. I posted it, but nobody responded. I hoped this clip would go viral for the valuable message and lesson it provides. May God Bless those seeing it. ♥

[@VoltaireVI]

A speaker in a TED Talk mentioned this so I came here.

[@KbpVerma]

God bless you its Viral Now ❤️

[@js33430]

I've been in healthcare almost 40 years.. I bet I've seen this video 6 or 7 times, and I still cry like a baby everytime.

[@travelnurseadventures3225]

me too

[@WambuiKamau61]

Went through this today in class, after going through the empathetic "skill" just realised empathy isn't putting yourself in other people's shoe, it's being kind and understanding through difficult times.

[@chanroobi7460]

I show this to my staff once a year just to center everyone around why we are healthcare workers.

[@remotework]

Hello Chan, are you a physician? I'm doing research on how Canadian physicians have responded to this video. It would be great to receive a response from you. Many thanks!

[@Ms.ERICA.]

I cry every time I watch this, no matter what. This is a life changing video.

[@jeffberenholtz4834]

Upon beginning my Masters in Healthcare Administration degree, my professor showed us this video and closed by saying, "if you didn't feel something from watching this video, you do not belong in the health care industry." This could not be more true, and more accurate. Each time I watch this video, it almost brings me to tears and then reminds me of how lucky I am to work in the health care industry and how empowered I am to arrive at work and do my absolute best.

[@peterhamlinhamlin8908]

I did feel something.....'I was not in tears, My feelings varied from the patient waiting for three hours to another in pain to another with a benign tumor. Perhaps empathy is tears perhaps understanding perhaps treatment????

[@peterhamlinhamlin8908]

Dentist retired after 40 years practice teaching , observing

[@VoltaireVI]

Hi Jeff, In the USA you call it the "Healthcare Industry"? That´s disgustingly inhuman.

[@samiyagimondo8330]

I’m watching this for nursing school course but this hit so close to home. 6 years ago i was that mother walking up to have my sons meet their dad for the last time who was dying to cancer. This shook my heart a little. I so put myself in others shoes everyday. Thank you for spreading the awareness.

[@user-jx4qu3gv9j]

Wow, I am in tears now. So many people, you never know what they are dealing with!! Be kind to all!!!!!

[@caitlinobrien273]

My Criminal Justice professor showed us this video in class today, saying that even though it's our job to put away criminals...our bigger job is to connect with the people we're protecting. To try and understand them, so that we can help them, as that is our job in the big picture. To help people and keep others safe. I'm proud to be studying to become a cop, especially after hearing him say that.

[@jojoelephant]

I am happy to know that you like this video too!

[@rachkate76]

Unfortunately it along with health care are riddled with bigotry and inequality.

[@Okgirl15]

I'm watching this at home so I have a chance to cry with it because whenever it is played in my class or at work I have to choke it back. It's a beautiful video.

[@acookiebi]

Ok exactly me right now

[@nancyoffenhiser4916]

I saw this was posted over 9 years ago. It is such a beautiful video. I want to thank everybody involved with making it. Post COVID, we are seriously lacking in empathy in this country. I pray that this video will touch some hearts and open them back up again. Thank you for the good work that you do, Cleveland Clinic

[@drsamahabouelazm]

Empathy in patient care fosters a deeper human connection, allowing healthcare providers to understand and address not just the medical needs, but also the emotional and psychological aspects of their patients' well-being. It enhances trust, communication, and overall satisfaction with the healthcare experience. incorporating empathy in daily life involves actively listening, showing understanding, and considering others' perspectives. In healthcare, for instance, expressing empathy through words and gestures can positively impact patient interactions and contribute to a more compassionate and effective care environment.

[@gonzalovarela829]

Teaching surgery more than 30 years, I've included this video many times in lectures. Thanks for editing and publishing!!!

[@Amina-oq3sr]

this video is the definition of what it means to be in health care and why. it teaches me to be always aware of people and my surroundings because i do not know what others are going through. very good video. thank you

[@kordapya4563]

this is so heart crushing, didnt realize I am crying. It helps me understand my patients better and understanding what they are going through. Hear what they hear, see what they see, and feel what they feel. Empathy.

[@bellaluce7088]

As a patient, I find it helpful to remember that clinicians are also going through invisible challenges. A doctor who lacks an inherent gift for empathy can still bring great dedication to your care, and one off day from a normally empathic clinician due to work or personal pressures doesn't negate all that came before. Grace in all directions.❤

[@Cheribeas]

WOW! I was at a conference this week for administrative professionals in healthcare and it was TRULY moving! I want to share it with my colleagues. You just never know what people are going through and what a reminder to give grace and empathy to others, no matter what profession you are in!

[@harishchand1008]

Here from CODE institute.. Wow, just reminds me how grateful i can be for my struggles in life and actually many blessings and to be more understandable for others, you never know what somebody is going trough.. Thank you

[@brbrprr]

I am a private care who loves caring for elderly people, and I am in tears! I love what I do and wish to continue with this because I know it is my calling. Thanks for this beautiful video, one of the bests I have ever watched!

[@FatherlyVibes]

As a healthcare worker in 2023 this is an exceptional reminder, doubly so for the VA. Grateful for the resource, even 10 years later.

[@megan2176]

I watched this yesterday at a HEART workshop for work, and it had me in tears. It should be required viewing for everyone on the planet. Such a simple message, but very well presented! Thanks so much! :)

[@debraarmstrong2956]

I have had 2 heart surgeries and for some reason, God is keeping me here for now and I am very appreciated I have 2 sons one is ADHD I believe I'm here for him, god willing.

[@als500]

Me too :(

[@bremenfan29]

Megan I feel like all hospitals watch this video now.

[@metacomet2066]

We were shown this yesterday at our new-employee hospital training. Never thought the very next day, my first day on the job, I'd be hugging a lady who just broke down crying in front of me while checking her out from her doctor appointment. She said this was the first time she'd been in the see the doctor by herself after losing her husband. I just kept thinking about this video, had to come home tonight and watch it again. Powerful. Thank you, Cleveland Clinic.

[@redbull4mee]

I had to watch this as part of my training for the hospital and it had me in tears. What a powerful video.

[@Mylifewithatbi]

I saw this video in an orientation and I absolutely fell in love with this video.

[@cherylellisbey3985]

just for today I'm grateful to be able to give a helping hand to other that is in need and to be able to show some compassion as I continue in my career showing and helping other staying health.

[@pqf30]

This is so beautiful. Everyone has a story. If we could simply try to walk in their shoes, everything changes. Its all a matter of perspective.

[@6a2kKTBkc]

As a volunteer in a VA Hospice Unit I really appreciated watching this video. It is a stark reminder about those we are trying to give comfort and support to. It was introduced to us by the VA Chaplain and I highly recommend it to anyone who volunteers in any level of medical care. Actually I recommend it to everyone.

[@tajuanadavidson2703]

You Need to run this again on every television station. I just saw this and it made such a huge impact on me and empathy towards others!!!!!!!! The Universe needs to see this again!!!

[@karinbecker7301]

Beautiful and Soulful! Thank you for sharing your talent and God Bless you with good health!

[@linktheheroofhyrule2498]

I was able to hold back my tears until the words "visiting dad for the last time" popped up. That hit me really hard.

[@slickschick8114]

me too

[@elahnnabennett7526]

Me too :'(((((

[@maryrobinson2911]

Me too - my husband is on hospice with late stage dementia- and one our sons died from a car accident when he was 20- he was in life support

[@SicilianaButterfly]

Me too! Recently lost my father so I know that feeling all too well. Whether you’re 40 (like me) or 14, it’s never easy losing a parent.

[@letharodriguez247]

Thank you Cleveland Clinic for putting this message out into the world with such beauty and grace! I'm finishing up my first semester of Nursing School and my cohort watched this on one of our first lecture days. The professor gave us a ten-minute break afterward so we could compose ourselves. The need for empathy and individualized kindness in our interactions is so excellently portrayed in this video. I'm commenting now because another professor sent this out for us to view as we wrap up our semester and it still hits just as hard!

[@itperson7085]

❤

[@ty0089]

I am coaching international doctors entering residency and we will watch this as part of understanding the term "to be in someone else's shoes". Thanks Cleveland Clinic!

[@goodlifeofasma5494]

I volunteer at a hospital. The video runs in my mind on every shift..!!

[@rachkate76]

Racists who burrow in medical and allied health like doctors and nurses should be forced to watch this before every shift every day.

[@christianking8256]

@melody hallelujah can they do a day in the life vlog for a nurse

[@th3lak3eff3ct]

I try to be aware of others and the fact that I don't know what they are going through, but his video really helped drive the fact home as a person training to be a Nurse.

[@steffswildlife3609]

I respect the hell out of people who work in healthcare, I can't do it. I would not be able to maintain a professional demeanor while breaking bad news or watching a patient break down in front of me. I am so thankful for everyone, no matter the position, that is there to help people live full lives and guide the family through it as well.

[@joshfreeman3840]

This is about so much more than healthcare. All of us who interact with or need to understand others, who seek to put ourselves in their shoes for many, many reasons, need empathy. Imagine the state of our politics, of our world, if we were able to do this more often. What a gift this video is to anyone who serves others in any capacity - from healthcare to design to restaurants to technology to art, and on and on and on,

[@shanna8042]

You just changed lives with this video

[@rachkate76]

Unfortunately the selectively practicing bigots who only have selective empathy in health care, customer service and all other customer, client and patient contact jobs who need to see this the most, will either never watch it or never connect the dots.

[@jamesneustadt8350]

This is one of the most meaningful, inspiring videos I have seen. Great for everyone to see, not only in the hospital setting but, at work, home, everywhere. Thank YOU Cleveland Clinic!!

[@melissafoster3857]

I show this video in my Service learning class at Aurora High School as we discuss EMPATHY. I have been showing it twice a year for many years, and I still cry every time!

[@healthyhair5396]

Brilliant video that was magnificently executed. My brother is a type 1 diabetic & also on Dialysis. He’s only 27 & I try to be very empathetic towards him. Because he is struggling mentally & physically. I pray for him to have peace.

[@LordVader89]

I'm a medical student and they actually showed us this video at our orientation this past week. I have to say even though I'm a grown man it made me teary eyed. What a powerful video.

[@Robert_The_Great]

FANTASTIC! Extremely emotional. No noise, no words spoken. One of the best PR content pieces I've ever seen. Well done!

[@marie.s9995]

This video is PROFOUND. We are afterall HUMAN. I still shed tears each time I watch this video no matter how many times I've seen it.

[@Saint.Monica]

Incredible. Speechless.

[@linkygirl8381]

I almost cried twice to this. This reminds me how we really are.

[@KarenBivins]

One of the most touching and thought provoking videos I have seen in a long time.. If everyone could put this into action in our daily lives, or even just half of us, what a better world we could live in. Thank you to Cleveland Clinic for making this video for us to share and to my wonderful boss, Tracy, for sharing it with our team! You are an inspiration Tracy!

[@aurorealis3249]

Powerful message with beautiful music that is healing to this son who's elderly mother is currently in the hospital. So impactful in a very narcissistic world that everyone could benefit from. Thank You Mr. George Sipl and The Cleveland Clinic - the capacity to genuinely care for another human!

[@msoberman]

Powerful...moving......a reminder of why I went into health care.

[@jeremycoburn1526]

I watched this in class and had to man up to stop from crying. Its a touching video, well done. You never know what someone else is going through.

[@krisevans8389]

A TRULY powerful video. I train police cadets and security guards and I play this video for them on DAY 1. There is typically very few dry eyes afterwards. If only we all took a minute to consider what someone might be going through before we respond to a situation, this would truly be a different world. Great job @clevlandclinic and thank you

[@Girlhead]

honestly I really wish police officers have more empathy. I don't see it. :(

[@cathyweaver8272]

Absolutely beautiful. You never know the pain one is feeling. Empathy shouldn't be that hard!

[@beautifullytee9444]

This is so well done and I'm glad they show it in hospital orientations, I cry every time.

[@auntylinda7640]

I live my life surrounded by other people's emotions. My family say I was always a little dreamy, but when they looked into someones eyes, i could see their soul. It is tiring, but its the way I am. 😃

[@karenraff1]

I'm a nurse. This was amazing. Thank you.

[@barbarainbakersfield]

As a volunteer and also as a patient, this made my heart smile to see a representation of what we all go through daily, helping and being helped. Some let us down, but most do their best in a hectic world. I thank God everyday for being able to help others but also for being on the receiving end A full circle and so wonderful to be able to be a part of it. Excellent film; should be a required viewing by everyone.

[@bizybee65]

As a patient of the Cleveland Clinic for bowel resection surgery in 1999 I stand and applaud all of your staff. I have always felt completely cared for there and they embody the definition of empathy and provide outstanding care to their patients and families. May God Bless them all as they work long grueling hours caring for others while battling their own daily struggles in their lives.

[@lauracroft8]

I love this video. It was shown at orientation 8 months ago for the company I work for. When I come across a hostile patient, I remember this video and I instantly change my attitude in regards to them. I work in Emergency doing medication reconciliation, so I directly have to talk with very ill/hurt patients who NEED someone who cares. I do care and this video was so powerful for me that when I start to feel differently I remember this!

[@davidpecora7750]

Excellent video! Should be required viewing for ALL who enter health care

[@barbadenis]

great poin! but not only who enter in health care but all people who not respect others and human kind.

[@changyang1230]

All human being I argue.

[@bintekhanmeher3779]

Great effort indeed. So heart touching...just showed to the medical students in Emphaty lecture. If we could realise and convey the true essence of what empathy really means by showing this video and act upon...this world would definitely be a better place to live

[@lisahoward7516]

Listening ,learning ,caring and open-mindedness is all the world needs

[@mediecospatialconcepts5408]

Its amazing how Cleveland Clinics pointed to the various type of patient visiting the clinic, as well as their employees in the video. Its really touching seeing their lives and the unspoken challenges and joy they experience. Indeed, I am moved to want to visit their clinic when need arises. Everyone would love to be treated so well and in close knit with their peculiar situation.

[@Name-ps9fx]

I drive a paratransit bus...I’ve watched this video many times over the years, it’s a great reminder for me to have empathy for people and their life situations...not just during my shift, but also in day-to-day interactions. Another one (if you’re interested) is the short vignette about a cab driver who takes an elderly lady to hospice care. It’s easy to find on a search engine.

[@user-eg8sq1ci1s]

What a beautifully made video about a most important quality….empathy.

[@trishhart1997]

I have watched this numerous times over the last 8 year and it still brings me to tears. I use to watch it the day before I planned to show it in my class so I wouldn't cry--that never worked. Awesome!

[@danab8532]

I don't understand how 170 people dislike this video. I think it is impactful!

[@glamourgirl1938]

Maybe their eyes were filled with tears and when they thought they were clicking the Like button they accidentally clicked the Dislike button. That's the only logical reason.

[@MrJukamada]

empathy. That will heal the world.

[@nezurrak]

Exactly 👍🏼

[@guerisondivine8368]

Exactly

[@pamelaking8413]

I teach empathetic listening throughout the St. Louis community. This video reflects the core principles of our class and it's not about our words. It's about our HEART and desire to connect with those around us in a meaningful and purposeful way. People want to know they matter and this video is a beautiful reminder of the power of human connection felt through empathy.

[@Deetrim]

Cleveland clinic Florida taught me everything there was about to be a caretaker, although I have taken that title to another facility I am beyond thankful for them and their teachings, the amazing doctors, technologist and nurses I met along the way. Fabulous place

[@TCM373]

This is an exceptional video that brings home the concept of empathy.

[@AFewGreatconversations]

Wow! Just watching this for the first time in 2019. This is such a powerful message with an even more powerful delivery!!!

[@problemchildentcw]

This video speaks volumes on the human condition, compassion, hope, love, forgiveness and humility. Just watching it empowered me to look outside and inside of the box when dealing with GOD's beautiful gift of life.

[@samahamdy4484]

This video touches my heart empathy is very heeded in everything in our daily life it is very important to respond with empathy to everyone you treat with

[@thongxaychanvisouth432]

I will use this video to teach my medical student

[@yogirlz2]

I love this video! As a junior in high school I am studying to be a nurse. I was shown this video to remind me to be respectful and empathetic ALWAYS because you have no idea whats happening in the minds of others.

[@OctoberGirl1971]

Cleveland Clinic saved my Dads life. We were give the best care ever. Dads nurse Luke even made sure I was comfortable and felt safe. He was amazing! I can't thank Cleveland Clinic enough!

[@maziqbal894]

Fantastic - illustrates a deep insight into human beings and bring compassion and empathy to the fore. Thank you for putting this together and sharing it.

[@devangv112]

You never know what battles others are fighting within! This video teaches us to treat others with RESPECT

[@sethweary9806]

I'll never not tear up at this. Doesn't matter how long I've been an EMT. This is why I treat people with the utmost love and respect I can. Because I don't know their whole story or what they are going through

[@TheSchoellerFamily]

UVA showed us this video during our first day of nursing orientation in 2014 and I cried through the whole thing. Everyone should watch this! It totally transformed how I feel when people are rude or angry. You never know what they are dealing with 💜

[@sherryfang4320]

Came here while reading Bittersweet by Susan Cain. Teared up immediately. Thank you for making this video.

[@eileenehansenapruzzese2685]

working in healthcare is soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo rewarding

[@nucleusmedicalmedia]

GREAT writing and editing!

[@tab8294]

Wow nucleus medical media❤

[@tonyferdaise5292]

I use this video in a Leadership class that I teach in nursing school, I tear up every time watching it. It is SOOO powerful the students at times are speechless.

[@thesravimail]

The medical profession asks more out of its professionals. It must ... because no other profession deals with the gift of life. Such a touching video. I will show this in our hospital.

[@lizhancock464]

I was OK until the lift. What a wonderful video to help remind us all to be more patient, understanding and compassionate. Thank you

[@sharnakeady484]

This is a brilliant ad. I have been in and out of hospital this year many times with a chronic condition. I felt every bit of this video.

[@brianradliffe3086]

Beautifully done! Applause to the Cleveland Clinic for reminding us that in our modern, high tech world we need to have more empathy, as well as more compassion, for one another across our lives.

[@kristinepetrulis1912]

I teach nursing and every year we start the school year reflecting on this video. We can learn skills and they are important, but to be exceptional means you have to master understanding what your patients go through. This video brings tears to my eyes every year when I see my students silently watching, and then passing around tissues.

[@primavera2701]

This video is just wonderful to share with people don’t understand others people pain, or health situations. im crying :((