Boundaries question-- moved post

Specialties Geriatric

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Boundaries violation?

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I have a question. This comes up because I work on a skilled unit in a LTC center. Some patients stay longer than others. If I was still working in the hospital, where pt turnover is higher, I would not have these questions. Your relationship with patients is different when they are in the facility longer, though.

Is it OK to go see a patient in the hospital, especially if you know the family will have some questions and don't know how to get the information.

How about seeing a former patient that lives near you-- is it ok to visit her?

Actually, I have already done these things, but I guess I am not sure if it is OK.

Thanks so much for your help.

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It is a fine line to walk. If they are in the hospital (where you do not work) are you able to answer questions for the family? Do you think the people you visit, see you as a friend or as a caregiver? I have pondered these questions myself, so I am glad to see them posted here. Bottom line, Who doesn't want companionship? You are probably making people feel better so I say go for it!

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Specializes in acute care and geriatric.

I go and visit- esp. if I know that the patient has no one-

I have many Holocaust survivors as patients- some have no or few family members/friends.

As you put it - in LTC the relationship is different. I know that they have no visitors and that makes me sad- so I stop off on my way home from work - even for only 15 minutes or half an hour. Makes their day and mine as well.

Some families are insulted if we dont come- some of my nurses , SW, CNA's do the same.

In the hospital you are not the care provider- but a visitor with limitations.

Do Not Touch the Chart or even the I and O clipboard,

Do NOt Wear White unless you have to- it will only confuse the patient and the staff, you are not there as a private nurse. You should not ask the nurse any question beyond what a normal guest/visitor would.

Do Not criticize the care or facility. If the patient complains and you can do something about it- fine but remember your boundaries. Stay professional,

Do Not Sit on the patients bed ( you have no idea what they could have...)

If the patient is out- went to X-Ray or something- I don't wait- I leave a cheerful note. If I brought a gift- like a bar of chocolate, a book or magazine- I leave it with the nurse to give.

I think its a wonderful that you are doing, good for you!!!

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