Trust

moved to nursing student assistance.....We are happy to help but we need to know what you think first. Start the dialog and we will jump right in!

This isn't for a homework assignment. I am just looking for how you know a patient trust you. Patients in the hospital are already scared/nervous because they are very vulnerable. Then you have a student nurse taking care of you, I'm sure for some patients it can be even more stressful. So I am simply looking for stories/examples of how students knew that their patients trusted them.

OK, not homework but..... How do you think a patient might show/indicate that they trust a student nurse?

If you were in the bed and first thing in the morning a student came in and said, "Good morning, I'm Studentmandie from the College School of Nursing, and I'll be taking care of you today," and you were nervous about this, what would you want her to say/do to make you feel safe?

Empathy is often a really good place to start, because all your working life you'll be dealing with people who are scared or unhappy one way or another, no matter what kind of work you do. This is a good exercise to get you thinking about how to do that.

I knew my patients trusted me through their nonverbal education. I made sure I always cam prepared once I entered the room. I think coming in with confidence is very visible to a patient. I feel like they can sense your nervousness very easily. Making sure you're on top of your game really is beneficial for both of you. I knew that this worked for me when many of my patients told me how caring they thought I was and told me that I would be a great nurse. I actually cared for one of my patients all day and when I helped pad his roommates side rails, his roommates family member told me how great and caring she thought I was. This meant the world to me. As a student it's normal to feel insecure but come with your a-game and your patient will trust you.

ALWAYS knock before entering pt's room, introduce yourself in a courteous and professional way. If if you feel nervous, appear as confident as you can. Sometimes pts just want to talk... lend them your ear, provide active listening, etc. NEVER do an assessment before asking them if it is ok... they will respect you for this. Sometimes you just have to "feel someone out" and respond accordingly. Always remember, it is about them and not YOU. They are sick, scared, vulnerable. They could probably care less if you spilled coffee on your white scrubs that morning :) All the best-Diane

I'm a southern girl and a smile and asking them how they are doing or feeling can go a long way in any situation. Don't be afraid to touch the patient. Hold their hand (if it's possible).