🗣️ German Nursing Vocabulary – Part III: Emotional Care & Reassurance

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
In a hospital setting, nursing goes beyond physical care. Emotional support is just as important—especially for patients who are in pain, anxious, or away from their families. As a nurse working in Germany, your ability to comfort and communicate with empathy can make a huge difference. This section introduces vocabulary and phrases that help you connect with patients on a human level.
If you’re preparing for B1 or B2 German, consider joining one of our German courses for beginners designed specifically with healthcare learners in mind.
đź’ˇ Common Vocabulary for Emotional Support
Angst – Fear or anxiety
Der Patient hat Angst vor der Operation.
The patient is afraid of the operation.
Sorgen machen – To worry
Sie machen sich Sorgen um Ihre Familie, oder?
You’re worried about your family, aren’t you?
Ruhig bleiben – To stay calm
Bitte versuchen Sie, ruhig zu bleiben.
Please try to stay calm.
Trösten – To comfort
Die Schwester versucht, den Patienten zu trösten.
The nurse is trying to comfort the patient.
Allein fühlen – To feel alone
Viele Patienten fĂĽhlen sich nachts allein.
Many patients feel alone at night.
Geduld – Patience
Haben Sie noch ein bisschen Geduld, bitte.
Please be patient a little longer.

đź’¬ Helpful German Phrases for Reassuring Patients
- Ich verstehe, dass Sie Angst haben. – I understand that you’re afraid.
- Sie sind nicht allein. Ich bin da. – You’re not alone. I’m here with you.
- Wir kümmern uns gut um Sie. – We’re taking good care of you.
- Es ist normal, sich so zu fühlen. – It’s normal to feel this way.
- Wenn Sie reden möchten, ich höre zu. – If you want to talk, I’m listening.
- Sie machen das sehr gut. – You’re doing very well.
This vocabulary is especially useful in geriatric care, pediatric wards, and during overnight shifts—when patients often feel most vulnerable. Building trust through calm, supportive language helps you provide not only medical but truly compassionate care.