What is being a nurse?

What being a nurse means to me, is CARING FOR MY PATIENTS...I recently have had three very depressed patients, and for very good reasons. One of these patients has been hospitalized for over one month. She is withdrawn, refuses treatment, and complains about the hospital. I spent some time doing what I believe a nurse should do. I listened to the frustration, let her know she was heard. Explained that her feelings are valid. And then...I suggested something that might refresh her mood. My preceptor told me that I spent too much time with that patient and that if someone is depressed and miserable I should just let them be that way, give my meds and move on. I'm so shocked. That is not what I believe nursing is. Yes, I did get a little rushed at the end of my day but all said and done, I carried out all of my orders and charting was done on time. And, when I saw that patient the next day - everything was different, her attitude, her appearance, even her room looked brighter. Her husband even thanked me for taking the extra time to "care". Any input from this nursing community?