Do’s And Don’ts In Dealing With Patients
Dealing with patients has been the main purpose of a nurse’s existence. The relationship between a nurse and patient is important, as it is believed to affect the overall well-being of each. It is even given emphasis on various theories related to nursing practice.
I know that we sometimes tend to forget how we should communicate with our patients as a nurse. We aren’t to be blamed anyway because we do experience a high level of stress every shift. Include a few annoying patients who would love to call you every now and then to complain even the most unnecessary thing. Well, don’t worry! Let me share with you some strategies that you can do to avoid getting irritated and stressed with these kinds of patients. Works well for me! This is the scoop of my few years in nursing, working as LPN and RN (for a while now). To get more from me please stop by at lpn training programs. You will find all round information about nursing education and career, particularly about LPN.
DO: Smile.
It makes patients feel that they are being cared for. And have you heard that smile is contagious? The patient will carry over the happiness you’ve started and it is very helpful in improving one’s health. The body becomes relaxed and relief from stress is felt. Even you would get surprised that your patient’s frowning face has turned into a brighter one.
DON’T: Look fierce.
Do you want to be like a scarecrow with no patient wanting to come near you? If not, then avoid glaring at them. If you always frown, you will just augment to whatever burden the patient bears.
DO: Talk.
Upon admission of the patient and before you start any procedure to him/her, introduce yourself. It is the foundation of a good nurse-patient interaction. Have some good talks while keeping in mind the various therapeutic communication techniques.
DON’T: Ignore.
Avoid zipping your mouth while in front of the patient as if you don’t have the ability to speak. There are times that you need to be silent but do not do it the whole time.
DO: Explain the purpose of everything that you will do to the patient.
Always explain the purpose of the nursing procedure before you start doing it. With this, the patient becomes aware of what is to be done to him/her. It also helps in alleviating anxiety.
DON’T: Be harsh.
You enter the room, walk straight to the patient, apply an alcohol swab to his skin, pull off the cap of the syringe and inject it to him. What do you think would be the patient’s reaction? You do not go on a duty to scare off patients. You’re there to give them relief. If you need to get a procedure done, perform it in a way that the patient won’t get anxious. Remember to be gentle all the time.
DO: Listen to the patient.
While s/he is talking, actively listen to him/her by maintain eye contact and observing both verbal and nonverbal cues. It shows respect and it becomes easier to gain the patient’s cooperation on nursing procedures that are to be done.
DON’T: Change subjects.
Immediate change of topic is a no-no. It is simply not polite and the patient would definitely feel that you do not consider what s/he says as important.
Trying the strategies above would permit you to maintain a good relationship with your patient. Nursing life becomes easier for you then. Moreover, you can help your patient get out of the hospital in no time!
