Dealing With Difficult Patients at Work
As nurses, there will always be patients that we're not so enthusiastic to take care of. There are patients with characteristics that we don't like, but whether we like them or not, we still need to give them the same treatment as we give others.
It is our duty to give all patients the best care that we can. Because the truth is, it was our choice to be a nurse and being a nurse requires professionalism, compassion and understanding.
The patients on the other hand, did not choose to be in the hospital or facility. That makes some patients become difficult to take care of. Not only that, but medications and conditions further make them more difficult to deal with.
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If you are having such problems these days, here are some things that might make your situation a little better.
1. Listen to the patient.
It is true that when we don't like a person, we don't even want to listen to him. It is therefore important that nurses need to listen to patient's complaints and while doing it, should establish eye contact. Doing this can help nurses take a step closer to having a good relationship with the patient.
2. Be mindful of your body movement.
Perhaps the reason why you don't like a certain patient is because that patient also knows how you feel about him. Remember that body movements and facial expressions matter. When you cross your arms, frown or keep looking at watch, patients feel as if they are not important or you have something else more important to do.
3. It pays to be nice.
Keep in mind that patients do not want to be where they are right now. In your case, you chose that profession. So you need to be more patient and extra nice to patients.
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4. Pay attention.
Sometimes, you may hear of patients threatening to sue you or the facility. While these may seem to be harmless, you will never know for certain. If you hear threats, tell your supervisor about it. Doing this can help the higher-ups avoid possible litigation in the future. You must also take it seriously when the patient tells you that he has already filed a case against a health care provider or hospital before.
5. Seek assistance.
If you truly feel uncomfortable caring for a certain patient, you might want to tell your supervisor about it. Tell the supervisor why you feel so. Your supervisor can help find ways on how to address the problem.
