PHStudent

I completely agree. I used to see the same sort of disproportionate call for resources in the classroom with "educationally handicapped" kids when that definition was extended to include those who had no interest in school other than staying out of juvenile hall. I wonder though if many of these "marginalized" individuals are offered the same array of "choices" as most of us are. For example: a chronic alcoholic comes in for the umpteenth time. We assume because he is still drinking that he is non-compliant or doesn't want care. We assume without living his life experience or biochemistry that he chooses to be an alcoholic that he chooses to live on the streets or decides not to work. How do we shift? How can we with an ER full of urgent needs, provide compassionate and meaningful care for this individual?

Hello: I am a student nurse in a western US state and have recently done rotations at both the psychiatric clinic and the Emergency Room. It is frustrating to me how little can be done for some of our "marginal" clients - and by that I mean those with few resources: (economic, intellectual, interpersonal and health reserve). I heard speak of "frequent flyers" and "repeat customers". While I understand that the role of the nurses in those circumstances was to handle the priority of the moment, I wonder what if anything we as nurses can do over the longer term in the way of activism, education or policy change that could help better serve those who have trouble serving themselves. Any input? Thanks so much.