I always thought having family with patient was a great idea. They're a second set of eyes, sometimes do a lot for the pt, know the pt and can let you know when something isn't right. But since we haven't had family/friends allowed for several weeks now, I have come to see how great not having them around is.
I never realized what a time suck some can be. They follow you around, ask the same questions over and over again, keep the patients up playing cards and laughing all night when they should be resting and demand ridiculous stuff (not all people, but a lot).
I feel like I have so much more time with my patients to do things. I've even given a few foot massages etc, because I have so much more time. My charting is better and I'm getting out on time more often.
I work nights and I hope new rules will limit the time visitors are allowed in the unit, but we all know that isn't going to happen because we are the Hilton, not the hospital. I understand now why so many nurses say they don't like families around.
On a side note, I do realize that for some of the patients being able to contact physically with family/friends is crucial. I just want to be able to tell visitors it's time for the pt to rest now, without being told to "get lost" .........true story.
As has already been pointed out on other threads, the great majority of patients' family members/significant others - the patient's support system - are reasonable in their behavior and expectations of nurses/doctors/other health care workers.
Point out your opinion as much as you want. My opinion is that people run the gamut and there's nothing special about being a patient's loved one or support person that changes that.
4 hours ago, Susie2310 said:
Health care professionals must also accept some responsibility for their communication with patients,
Yep.
4 hours ago, Susie2310 said:
which often leaves a lot to be desired
Pretty much true of human interactions in general.
4 hours ago, Susie2310 said:
and acknowledge that they are often actually provoking some of the patient and family member behaviors they find undesirable.
JKL33
7,044 Posts
Point out your opinion as much as you want. My opinion is that people run the gamut and there's nothing special about being a patient's loved one or support person that changes that.
Yep.
Pretty much true of human interactions in general.
Depends.