Abuse from Family/Outside Personell

[Spritenurse1210, BSN, RN]

Ok, so I've had a rough week last week. I was almost assaulted by a residen'ts private sitter, and screamed at by another resident's 2 family members. My question is, How do I stop the abuse without being unprofessional? Any ideas?

[Virgo_RN, BSN, RN]

You tell them point blank, in a calm and professional manner, that if they continue to behave in an assaultive or abusive way, you will have no choice but to call security/the police.

[BinkieRN, BSN, RN]

You tell them point blank, in a calm and professional manner, that if they continue to behave in an assaultive or abusive way, you will have no choice but to call security/the police.

If you speak to them in the heat of the moment, even if you're professional, they will likely escalate their behavior. I said to a family member "I'm leaving the room and will talk to you later when you calm down". Turn around and leave the room closing the door behind you. If you feel the situation is already out of control call security. Otherwise go back in later and try to discuss the situation calmly. I have called the nursing supervisor to go back in with me and/or let her handle it from there. I have ever only once not been able to come to a resolution with a family member and had another nurse take over the care.

Whatever...never let a patient or family member raise their voice at you or belittle you in any way.

[mpccrn, BSN, RN]

i usually get very quiet, almost a whisper while i tell them i'd be happy to discuss their concerns when they calm down enough to talk with me. i won't stand there and let them yell at me. my eye to eye contact NEVER wavers. this is MY house. i am in control.

[bossynurse101]

When I did nsg mgmt, I wd freqently get angry family members in my office. I used to keep an adorable pic of my little ones on my desk (definately no sharp objects within the desk!) and look at the picture while telling myself "i want to keep my job, i want to keep my job, i want to keep my job . . . " Sometimes its hard to stay professional even tho you know its not personal. Anger, fear, guilt, grief, etc. whatever. I agree with Binkie - walk away (if u can) and let the supvr handle it. Theyre usually more exp'd, not directly involved and chances are they have a pic on a desk somewhere! :loveya: