Inappropriate things patients say

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I never understood how patients feel it is ok to say such inappropriate things. I am your nurse, not your friend.

Last night, after handing a patient a vomit bag which looked like this (just green)...

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the patient stated..."It's too small."

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I'm confused.

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Implying the above bag would not provide sufficient coverage if it were worn as a condom.

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Next step: haul over the trash can.

I never did understand those tiny emesis basins. Don't have vomit bags in my department, but we can make do with washbasins (disposed without guilt).

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

I once heard that same comment from a young GSW pt when transferring him to the floor, about his new room: "It's too small."

Um...you're welcome for saving your butt?

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Specializes in Clinical Research, Outpt Women's Health.

It is too small! Hard to have that kind of precision when barfing!

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"Patients" probably say inappropriate things with the same regularity that "people" do. The human race is filled with all kinds of people. Just turn on the news every night, and you might come to the conclusion that we humans are quite a mess.

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Specializes in PCCN.

Yup, I would just say ok, heres the pail. dont miss.

eta. I never understood the little emesis basins/kidney dish. i myself would want the full size pan if i was to vomit.

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Specializes in Family Medicine, Tele/Cardiac, Camp.

Are you sure he meant it in an inappropriate fashion? I've said the same thing when handed those emesis bags before. I always end up missing the opening and I've seen many a patient either overflow or overshoot them as well.

Completely inefficient for puking. We always use wash basins.

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Always love the drunk guy who decides to share how spectacular his member is :yawn:

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
Are you sure he meant it in an inappropriate fashion?

He did. The guy was disgusting.

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
"Patients" probably say inappropriate things with the same regularity that "people" do. The human race is filled with all kinds of people. Just turn on the news every night, and you might come to the conclusion that we humans are quite a mess.

I guess that's true but do the "regular people" say it to strangers that way patients seem to think they can?

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