Sitting down in patient rooms.

[Caffeine_IV]

Do you do this? What do you think of it?

They are starting something where I'm employed encouraging (next time mandating) that we spend time sitting at the bedside. According to EBP, patients perceive us better and feel we have spent more time with then when we sit versus stand. Something that will increase our scores.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

if you have the time, it is a nice gesture.

[cayenne06, MSN, CNM]

Yes, I always sit with my patient during their intake and/or shift assessment, when time allows. I like my patients to know they have my undivided attention, even if only for a few minutes. I do think it makes a big difference in patient perception of our care.

[RNperdiem, RN]

With the lifting of visiting restrictions, there is often nowhere to sit in the room for the nurse.

When possible, I try to do a lot of charting at the bedside. I get to observe my patient a little more, find out their concerns, and avoid the distractions of charting at the nursing station.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I have been asked by the patient sometimes to sit on the bed when visitors have the chairs. I always refuse for infection control purposes, but it does show they want that intimacy

[ParisAntonel]

I do this when I have the time . If you are standing and looking down to talk to pts, it makes them feel inferior,anxious, uncomfortable. I've noticed they feel comfortable and they open up more when you're sitting down ! :)

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

I do it a lot for the reasons mentioned above but also a chance to rest my weary legs and grab a breather

[Momtomykiddos]

I like to when I can. I won't sit on their bed, and there isn't always n extra chair, but I try to, especially when it's someone who takes. Little longer to take their meds. I feel like it shows I'm not rushing them. And I got into nursing for the people--so I like spending time with my residents when I can, not just rushing from one room to another to complete my med pass. And I always sit down when assisting a resident with a meal. Again, so they don't feel like I'm rushing them. I try to make up what I can of my cheat sheets and assignment sheets sitting in the hallway with a resident instead of behind the nurse's station. It might be the only time in get to sit with a particular resident, and I like chatting with them.

[RunBabyRN]

I'll sit in a chair if there's time. Like you said, the evidence supports that patients feel like you've spent more time with them if you sit. Also, sometimes, it's appropriate, and if so, I'll do it. It can be nice when helping a mom learn to breastfeed, or reassuring her with answers to her questions.

[microkate]

I try to sit with my patients as much as I can, though not on the bed. Most of them are older and either stuck in bed or in a wheelchair. I think it's nice to have someone at eye level with them, especially when they want to chat a little or are getting anxious and need some calming. I also usually sit while doing intake paperwork. If I'm standing, I feel like I'm looming over them, and they generally answer questions better when they can see my face.

[amoLucia]

Want to guess that next thing admin will find to complain about is that staff have TOO MUCH TIME if they can be sitting around in pt rooms?!? I can just see it now with SOME staff using this as an excuse to goof off.

Like poster cayenne06, I will sit when doing an admission. I find it forces me to stay focused on the admission. My time is valuable so it allows me to make the most of what little time I have to be thorough.

[Amanda026]

Great idea, it gives them the feeling youre taking the time to spend with them out of your busy schedule. They think that youre more special than the rest. Also helps you to be a better nurse by getting to know your patients better.