How Do I Protect Myself From a Noncompliant Patient?

[NRSKarenRN, BSN, RN]

ask the experts about legal/professional issues for advanced practice nurses

from medscape nurses

[color=#004c88]how do i protect myself from a noncompliant patient?

.....who decides to sue because of a poor outcome related to his/her noncompliance?

carolyn buppert offers guidance. ...

expert viewpoint, medscape nurses, december 2005

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I work with a very noncompliant patient base: chronic hemodialysis patients. I practice strong defensive communication...stating and providing copies of written and verbal instructions, what happens if they decide to not follow my instructions. If I notify a physician, I also chart that.

In order to get better compliance, it is imperative that you establish a relationship with any patients: they must trust your judgement and they must also "buy-into" the care you want to provide.