Family and Patient Care

In what sense? Do you mean visiting hours? Or do you mean when you have to do procedures/give care?

I say, "Okay, it's time for me to (insert procedure). Why don't you guys go get some coffee for (insert length of time)." It usually works. Sometimes the pt will say it's okay for them to stay, but many times the pt says nothing. If the visitor asks to stay I say it's up to the pt.

I don't do peds, but it's a case by case. Sometimes having a family member is comforting for the patient and family member. It gives them a chance to see their loved one is getting excellent care. The nurse of course has to be confident in themselves and whatever procedure they are doing.

It's controversal having family member's present. However, I support the idea, if they are coping well, if they are helpful and comforting, etc.

But otherwise I ask at the start. Nothing wrong with "will you please step outside while I..........."

It's also an excellent opportunity to teach basics of care to the family members who will need to do so after the patient is discharged.

I follow what you do TazziRN. Like you say, it depends on whether the pt wishes to have the person / family member stay. If the person is unable to give consent then I guess you have to go by the legal next of kin's wishes (we call them "guardians"), but unless the person is being cared for by that person then I would not be keen to have them come in on the procedure either. But it also depends on whether the patient is familiar with the procedure to be done.

So I guess the rule is, informed consent.