Published Apr 24, 2014
algebra_demystified
215 Posts
This is in the context of an outpatient appointment with a guy who was a missionary for decades. I do not happen to be a believer, but I have quite the religious background. It's been enough years that I am very friendly with my religious culture and use what I know. It is the underpinning for my thoughts on culture, morality, etc.
I said I do. I think I do. At the same time, it's a complete lie in HIS context. He wanted to know if I was "saved" in his terms. I knew at the time what he was asking about and deliberately misled him. He prayed for me towards the end of the appointment, and I participated with him when his obvious cues became apparent.
I'm not sure I really have a question to ask here. Part of me thinks that it's really none of his business what my spiritual/religious life is like. Part of me wants to be honest with him. Part of me is irritated that he feels welcome to make me feel uncomfortable for his own benefit. It's a bit presumptuous, isn't it?
I don't feel offended. I'm more thinking about how my dishonesty will affect our therapeutic relationship. He's probably run into people like me before and I'm guessing he figured out I was BS'ing him about this.
I'm just not sure where to go with this, so give me your thoughts.
Pangea Reunited, ASN, RN
1,547 Posts
I would have said, "I know a lot of people!" then merrily changed the subject to something relevant.
Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN
20,908 Posts
What do you mean by you don't know where to go with this?
I would just smile and say "I don't discuss religion or politics with my patients...for me it is a very private issue"
Then let it go.
RNsRWe, ASN, RN
3 Articles; 10,428 Posts
You're concerned about dishonesty affecting your therapeutic relationship, really?
It'd be a long cold day in Hades when I'm THAT honest with patients about my personal (VERY personal) life.
I'm with Esme on this one....unless I was in a "quippy" mood in which case I might respond "I'm not sure, what floor is he assigned to?" :)
BrandonLPN, LPN
3,358 Posts
Possible replies:
"No, do you?"
"Yes, He's standing right there"
"No, but I do know Bast, the Egyptian cat-goddess."
"Who?"
AmyRN303, BSN, RN
732 Posts
I agree with Esme here. No need to further discuss. If he has been a missionary for many years, it's possible he will ask again, but stick to the "I don't discuss my beliefs with my patients" and it's possible he will respect your wish.
kakamegamama
1,030 Posts
If you are comfortable with your answer, why do you think you need to revisit it with him? If he brings it up again, be honest with him. If he's been a missionary, he's used to hearing "no" or "not interested" or other negative responses.
ArtClassRN, ADN, RN
630 Posts
Yeah, he put a roof on my house.*
*The author is Mexican American.
AgentBeast, MSN, RN
1,974 Posts
Ah Jesus I like him very much, but he no help me hit curveball.
MrChicagoRN, RN
2,605 Posts
"I'm sorry, I'm not here to discuss my religion or my beliefs. Let stick to what it is that you need today."
I <3 OR, RN
134 Posts
I think letting him know that it's not something you are comfortable talking about with him is your best bet. That way neither of you will end up in an awkward moment again.
nurseprnRN, BSN, RN
1 Article; 5,116 Posts
Jesus Alou? Great outfielder, part of a terrific baseball family. http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alouje01.shtml
As an alternative, as the signs on the phone poles around here say, "Jesus saves, and Espo scores on the rebound."
(Go Bruins)