New CNA, have a question please!!!!

Nursing Students CNA/MA

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I'm a new CNA, just started in October. I have a patient that I have assigned to me a couple days a week. He's in his early 40's, alert and has MS. I have to help him dress and help him put on his condom catheter. Other CNAs there have warned me that he gets erections sometimes and has asked them to do inappropriate things to him. What should I say or do if he ever gets an erection while I'm helping him with his catheter? I'm a virgin, so this would be SO awkward and embarrassing for me. I'd probably be shocked. Haha. I would appreciate any answers! Thanks!!!

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Specializes in Rehab.

Well, just to forewarn you, youre going to see a lot of erections before youre done So far as this particular resident, keep him talking while youre putting on the foley. He'll be less inclined to say something inappropriate that way. And it may help if he has an erection to put it on(I never have, we werent allowed to at the facility I used to work at). I would find out if he has a daughter. If he makes a rude comment, ask him if he would like someone saying something like that to his daughter, niece whatever. And if he persists, be very firm in telling him it is inapropriate, get the job done, get out of the room, and tell the nurse. Worse case, you can always see if someone else can be in the room with you. Good luck!

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Specializes in Med Surg, Geri.

If an erection happens, try to ignor it. If "suggestions" are made, do not reply, get the Charge Nurse and let her take care of it.

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Specializes in ALF, Medical, ER.

Erections happen. Something you just have to learn to deal with. Yea I know its kinda weird the first time, but just try to keep in mind that you are providing patient care and that this too shall pass. Explain to him what you are going to do and be done with it. If he makes any inappropriate comments/suggestions, tell the charge nurse. He/she will handle the situation in the appropriate manner. Trust me, you'll get used to seeing private areas and before long it won't even faze you. Good luck

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Specializes in Med/Surg.

Well, erections are a physical reaction. I personally would go in, get the job done and get the heck out of there. If he says anything inappropriate, report it to your nurse.

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Specializes in Ortho, Neuro, Detox, Tele.

Yep...wouldn't be the first time...but when I hear that from a fellow female co-worker....I wind up trading with them if that patient becomes a problem....it's suprising when a male comes in when they've been seeing females for 2-3 hrs of the shift...then they calm down, usually...One asked me once..."Sorry, sir, I've got one too...so it's nothing new to me."(He was a little confused, though).....trade if you have to, but stick it out...you'll see other things before you're done....Also, tell him that you are a professional, and you don't have to put up with his behavior....

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Specializes in Community Health, Med-Surg, Home Health.

Yes, you will see erections; plenty of them in your lifetime. And, as gross as it sounds, for this case, to place a condom catheter, it may be better to have one, because it is harder to place and secure it on a flaccid member. But, now, for the inappropriate comments, you tell them that you are not there to indulge in their sexual fantasies and desires. Say it firmly and report it. He probably says these things to all of the nurses.

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If he makes a comment or suggestion that makes you feel uncomfortable and if he is alert then you need to let him know in no uncertain terms that this type of behavior is inappropiate and that it will be reported if it continues. Still let your Charge nurse know but letting him worry about a family member or spouse finding out about the behavior usually keeps the most aggressive resident at bay. If he does it again back up your statement to him and go immediately to your supervisor and report him. And if possible have the nurse go in and talk to him with you present to reinforce your statement to him about reporting the action. Unfortunately because he is disabled and in a facility you have to follow the facility policy on this type of behavior. Working in the field of nursing comes with its good days and the bad days. Thats why we nurses are special people.

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