Do you tell family members that their loved ones are nasty and combative

[DesiDani]

Or do you never go into detail and just say "everything is fine". Do loved ones have the right to know that their loved ones are acting out?

[ambobam]

Combative, absolutely.

Nasty... Heck no. Don't tell them that their family member is nasty.

[elijahvegas, ASN, RN, EMT-P]

Only if their nasty combativeness is paired with noncompliance in terms of walking, spiro, meds, eating, etc. Then I'll let the family know that they're constantly agitated and pretty much going AMA which won't have the best outcome if the behavior continues, in the hopes that they could talk some sense into my patient.

If that's not the case then really whats the point? I'd feel kinda childish telling family " hey your so-and-so was really mean to me today!"

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

If they ask, I would describe the behavior... without judgemental words like "nasty".

As a CNA, you would not describe the behavior, you would direct that question to the nurse.

[nurseredd]

Yes, you can address this with family without being insulting. Rather than staying opinion "nasty" state facts "today mr jones attempted to hit staff 3 times and is throwing things in his room. Any suggestions on how to help him".