How do you address your patients?

[anonymurse]

Just looking for the method you use most after introductions.

[shodobe]

Since I work in the OR I first address them by their full name, check the name band to confirm and then usually I just call them by their first name. I have always felt this was a good way to calm down nervous patients by connecting with them on a first name basis.

[egarwo]

in the hospital where i work i usually ask them how they will like to be call and go by what they tells me. i alway go by what the pt say

[SaraO'Hara]

For men, usually Mr Surname; with women, it depends on what kind of rapport I have. It's either Ms/Mrs Surname or Miss Firstname (eg Miss Alice).

[RedhairedNurse, BSN, RN]

Mr. & Mrs if they're my elder.....usually by first name if they're younger, just depends.

[NurseExec]

I grew up in, and live in the south. We use Mr. or Miss followed by the first name. Miss Mary, Mr. John. I also Ma'm and Sir everyone older than me. I remember learning this at a very young age--not addressing anyone older than you in this manner was a major no-no and would net you a chewing out (or worse) from Mom, Dad, or schoolteachers.

I like it though, because it accords respect. I'm still surprised though, when my staff call me Miss ......

Somehow it didn't ever occur to me that I would be older than anyone else LOL!

[registeredin06]

I tend to use first names for people that are half sedated or confused, they seem to respond better with a real loud

"BOB, SQUEEZE MY HAND, BOB!" :)

[warlingham]

Mr & Mrs until rapport made