our prejudices

[ktwlpn]

Recently we have had several great discussions that show how our personal prejudices may impact the patient care we deliver(shame that some threads were closed)" Pain control vs.drug seekers" seems to be a hot area and for me "demented behaviors vs they know just what they are doing" is a biggie (I am pretty sure that any 70 yr old women that is pinching and spitting out meds and screaming must have SOME kind of problem....) Gender,religion and race.....How do you maintain your professionalism and carry out your duties?

[1RNLadybug]

It reminds me of an episode of ER...Nurse is fussing about patient

with chronic copd, on ventimask at 50%, and trying to go out to smoke...

Nurse says "do you know how hard it is to care for Mrs. Smith?!!!"

Dr carter responds "do you know how hard it is to BE Mrs. Smith?"

Patients have free will and we can't change their behavior, but all we can do is help them and listen to them. But it is hard

when you see them going out to smoke, then ask for a breathing treatment...

linda:)