annoyed

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I have a question on how best to handle something. I just don't have the experience and still don't have the thickest skin yet. There is a secretary(she is older) that constantly rags on me about my age...because I am 18. She makes remarks like "so do you buy your scrubs in the toddlers section" or "make sure you get in bed by your bed time"...i have ignored it for a month but its starting to get under my skin now..she says it half joking but it honestly is old at this point. I get sick of being reminded of my age. The nurses all treat me well(except for a few that are mostly indifferent)...i just am not sure how to handle this. Should I just continue to ignore it.... I want to be respectful and not come off like a cry baby but in my opinion its no different if someone were ragging on about being a senior citizen..advice?

Jean

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

What's wrong with telling this woman that you feel uncomfortable with her comments? The longer you ignore it, the longer it will continue. Whenever she makes a snarky comment about your age, call her out on it. Respond by saying, "Please don't say that again."

Unfortunately, some people automatically conclude that your silence is indicative that you have no issues with the annoying comments.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Med-Surg..

Yes, I would tell her that comments about your age are offensive. You can't help your age can you? Who knows, maybe she wishes she was your age. Don't let her run you down, to be an LPN by age eighteen is something to be very proud of.:nuke:

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Specializes in RN- Med/surg.

I'd be snarky back.

Say something like "I don't make cracks about your age, I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't about mine"

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

Perhaps she buys her scrubs in the geriatric section!! Ask her if she would like to swap coupons for the uniform store!! :)

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Call her out on it and dont allow anyone to cause you to be ashamed of your age, to be where you are at 18 is a great accomplishment, and just know that a lot of the flack your going to hear is going to be jealousy, I mean who wouldn't want to be or wished they had been that together and successful at 18!!!! Be proud of yourself and your successes and just know that there is this great community of nurses :an!: that will be there when you need them.

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hahahaha egglady....that was good. i thought about saying with a smile..."do you get the senior citizen discount where you shop?"....yes i guess i need to let her know instead of steaming inside. At first it did not bother me at all because i am use to it but after a month of it well it got old. thanks for all of your advice to all of you. and i am proud of the fact that i am an lpn at 18....thanks again :)

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Did you say "secretary"? O.K. now here is the problem I have with that. As a nurse you have be licenced by the state to make choices and follow thru with them. She just needs to type them up. :)

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Specializes in LTC, Management, Hospice, Private Pay.

don't forget in every work arena there is a harassment policy that includes: age, race, etc. all you have to do is ask her for the form since she is the secretary and probably has it at her desk. if it continues with the disrespect, use your nursing...that always stands high above secretaries!!!! good luck:smokin:

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Specializes in OB/GYN.

That would annoy me too. You should be respected as well as respectful. I would have a word with the secretary because I really believe that people will continue to treat us in such a way if we allow it. You don't have to be nasty. In a very kind tone, you should tell her that you have worked very hard to become a nurse and would appreciate it she would give you credit for your knowledge. Furthermore, let her know that you do not care for the condescending comments that are made in regards to your age, as this has nothing to do with your abilities as a nurse.

It is not easy to stand up for yourself. This is not condescending - don't take it that way. But, you are young and new into the workforce in general (not just nursing). It takes time to develop that thick skin. The sooner you start letting people know what is and what is not appropriate, the sooner they will stop making these comments.

Be strong and always say it with a smile on your face :)

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Specializes in ER,MED_SURG,REHAB,HOME HEALTH, OR,.

go to google and granny jokes lol

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:p"Hey,just always remember and dont you ever forget{with your age and all}"I could be taking care of you one of these days"!Are we a little constipated"?

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