Per policy, I am not allowed to give an opinion on whether to COVID vaccinate

This is a new job. I’m a nurse manager for children’s group homes and we are told we can’t give an opinion on whether or not parents should consent to vaccinate their children. We can educate but not give an opinion. 

When I educate you, you’re probably going to infer my opinion.

Am I making a big deal out of nothing?

I think nurses should encourage vaccination.  I’m annoyed.

Please share your experience. 

[nursej22, MSN, RN]

I think that part of the education should include the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP) and the American Association of Pediatricians (AAP). 

But I work for local public health so I might be a little biased. 

[FolksBtrippin, BSN, RN]

6 minutes ago, nursej22 said:

I think that part of the education should include the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP) and the American Association of Pediatricians (AAP). 

But I work for local public health so I might be a little biased. 

Yes. My sentiments exactly. And that will be part of the education. 

[Guest 1152923]

     That's a slippery slope. While I agree with your stance on vaccinations, I would be more inclined to say that it is the recommendation of XYZ agency, committee, panel, practice...  In this day of heightened litigation, I would be very hesitant to give any personal recommendation, lest a patient/client experiences a negative outcome and begin searching for a scapegoat, $$$

[toomuchbaloney]

51 minutes ago, FolksBtrippin said:

This is a new job. I’m a nurse manager for children’s group homes and we are told we can’t give an opinion on whether or not parents should consent to vaccinate their children. We can educate but not give an opinion. 

When I educate you, you’re probably going to infer my opinion.

Am I making a big deal out of nothing?

I think nurses should encourage vaccination.  I’m annoyed.

Please share your experience. 

You are likely covered to offer the opinion of the CDC and other accountable public health experts. Your personal opinion should be what they are referencing.  That saves them from the crackpot who is afraid that they are genetically changed or magnetized or some equally nonsensical "beliefs" apparently held by some nurses. 

[Hannahbanana, BSN, MSN]

Agree c the above but would feel perfectly safe in saying, “I have made sure that everyone in my family is vaccinated, because … (evidence-based practice as above). Let me know what you decide.”

[nursej22, MSN, RN]

1 hour ago, Hannahbanana said:

Agree c the above but would feel perfectly safe in saying, “I have made sure that everyone in my family is vaccinated, because … (evidence-based practice as above). Let me know what you decide.”

Ooh, I like this!

 

[EKUGRAD, BSN, MSN, RN, CNS]

I am reminded of the old Fox News motto, "We report.  You decide.". I try to present as much as I can, within the recipient's ability to understand, and allow them the autonomy of their own lives.  I believe (my opinion!) that the U.S. has all but abandoned the concept of informed consent.

[toomuchbaloney]

2 hours ago, EKUGRAD said:

I am reminded of the old Fox News motto, "We report.  You decide.". I try to present as much as I can, within the recipient's ability to understand, and allow them the autonomy of their own lives.  I believe (my opinion!) that the U.S. has all but abandoned the concept of informed consent.

Your belief isn't based in reality.  No one is forced to accept covid vaccination or take a treatment without providing consent.  

[sleepwalker, MSN, NP]

You provide professional information, documentation, etc. which allows the parents to make an informed decision. You don't give a personal opinion. 

[Horseshoe, BSN, RN]

It's not necessarily a bad policy. Considering there are too many antivax nurses, it's likely a good thing personal opinions are discouraged.

[jive turkey]

On 8/8/2021 at 3:52 PM, FolksBtrippin said:

This is a new job. I’m a nurse manager for children’s group homes and we are told we can’t give an opinion on whether or not parents should consent to vaccinate their children. We can educate but not give an opinion. 

When I educate you, you’re probably going to infer my opinion.

Am I making a big deal out of nothing?

I think nurses should encourage vaccination.  I’m annoyed.

Please share your experience. 

I have an easy way for you to deal with situations like these.  I encounter them often even for things not related to COVID.

It's the doctors job to give advice. 

It's my job to educate and perform according to orders when legal, ethical, safe with consent within my scope of practice.

 I'll educate them about vaccines but tell them to speak to a provider to learn if it is appropriate for them.