RNeurotic

That is absolutely a HIPPA violation. Staff should in no way be telling a patient about other patients. Not appropriate. This should be addressed with the person who is in violation. Does this person understand HIPPA?

This has been a challenge for me as well in my first year practicing as an RN. First to set the tone, I told myself in nursing school-after having a few poor encounters with nurses in clinical- I would try to never forget what it was like to be a student. So far this promise has been very challenging to keep. I've had students who come off careless, rude and even lazy. I can understand discomfort with approaching patient care or shyness in the clinical setting, but what I've seen lately are students who dangerously confident and brazen. Normally I would say, jump in. Just do it. and anything else encouraging, but this is beyond the line of appropriate. I think the best thing a new RN (or anybody) can do with students is make sure communication is clear. Our big problem on our department is that we have a few different schools that work with us with various levels of ability. This gives us a challenge in knowing what to expect from each student. What's worked best for me is to be upfront with the student, ask what his/her level of skill and responsiblities are and let them know my expectations during my shift with them. This seems to help me avoid many bumps in the road related to lack of communication. Another thing I think I can give students advice on to have smooth working relationships with nurses is to return this communication effort. Let us know what your level of skill/ability is and what you'd like to accomplish during the clinical. Also, don't be afriad to ASK QUESTIONS! This is something I feel all nurses shouldn't be afraid to do. We are in an constantly changing field and will never know everything.