How to appropriately convey optimism without lieing

ArborVitae · Mar 20, 2009

I would say something along the lines of:

Mr or Mrs (insert name here) I want you to know that we're working hard to make sure you get the best care and you're as comfortable as possible.

To the question "Am I going to be okay?"

You may say something along the lines of:

We're working on getting you stabilized, is there anything you need/ want?

That way the person can request a chaplain, or family member to speak with.

While it's important to be optimistic while working with a pt who's in a "bad way" you should also be honest with them so that they can mentally prepare or speak with loved ones or a chaplain in case they weren't to make it.

Elvish, BSN, DNP, RN, NP · Mar 20, 2009

I totally don't believe in telling people they're going to be ok when it's obvious, or likely, that they won't. I don't think you are saying we should do that, just making a point here.

I hold this belief because people know when they are doing badly. They also know when you're lying to them. Sick people know when you're feeding them a line.

What I usually say is something like what's already been suggested:

We're doing XYZ to try and beat ABC illness. Is there something else you need?

Is there a particular concern that you have?

I can't tell the future, but I am working as hard as I can to help you get better.

Depends on the patient, though. Some patients are looking for reassurance that they're going to be ok, and others are looking for permission to identify the elephant in the room, which is that they are dying.

oramar · Mar 20, 2009

Thanks for asking this question, should have asked it myself long time ago. I HAVE said the wrong thing because I wasn't ready when the question came up. I do feel guilty when I think about it. I was in a position to support people in a very special way that nurses get to do and failed them. On the other hand there has been times when I said and did just the right thing.