Working in a racially insensitive home.

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I wanted to hear if anyone else has worked private duty for a family that is racially insensitive. I have heard some comments from the other family members that have made me cringe of course not directed at me. I've wanted to walk out the door a couple of times! The nerve is that they say things to me like I'm supposed to agree. This includes comments about the LGBTQ community also. How do you respond?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

I ask to be reassigned. It's a hostile work environment. You can't change them so you move on

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Specializes in LTC & Private Duty Pediatrics.
I wanted to hear if anyone else has worked private duty for a family that is racially insensitive. I have heard some comments from the other family members that have made me cringe of course not directed at me. I've wanted to walk out the door a couple of times! The nerve is that they say things to me like I'm supposed to agree. This includes comments about the LGBTQ community also. How do you respond?

You have two choices:

- Choice #1: Keep your mouth shut, and keep your job. Stay out of the family's business, if that is possible. Sometimes, family's drag the nurse into their business. Do not try to correct the family. It will come back to haunt you. More than likely, they will make you a DNR (Do Not Return) if you say something.

- Choice #2: Let your agency know, and refuse further assignments with this client. Make sure you have a backup agency, in case the first agency has no work.

Hope this helps.

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SirJohnny says it well. And I can add that it won't take too many instances where you ask to be reassigned for this reason or any other reason before the agency looks to the next nurse in line for assigning cases. The agency wants "no maintenance" nurses.

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