Warm Welcome Everyone
We all might have probably come across this kind of scene where an emergency came up or a woman is in labor or a family member feels anxious and paces around. And then, the Nurses and Doctors too paces up and down putting on a serious faces, and avoids eye contact with the patient’s family.
Naturally, the family members would request for an update, instead of a response, the nurse or doctor will just nod their heads, with a vague assurance and walks away. No updates, no words, just a dead silence.
Over to the movies, it is quite dramatic there and we might choose to ignore and laugh over it. But in real life, It is very dangerous and sometimes looks disrespecting to the patient's family. This is because, communication is part of patient care.
Keeping the families informed does not entail that the nurses gives away every single medical detail, it just simply shows you’re being human, applying empathy and helping them feel less curious in that moments of uncertainty.
As Nurses, we carefully understand the pressure of emergency situations. And most times, we genuinely do not have answers to them yet. But one thing we shouldn't ignore, even in the heat of the moment, is to communicate calmly and clearly with the patient’s family members. Than leaving them in the dark, anxiety and fear.
And if unfortunately, bad news drops, they might not be able to bear it, by causing them to break down, and they could possibly loose it at anyone of them.
Here are simply communicate skill to apply... Say to them;
“Her overall observations are stable and we are monitoring her closely, I will get to inform you of anything new.”
“The procedure on her has been commenced, buti will update you soon with the progress so far.“
“We understand your worries toward the patient and we’re effortlessly doing all we can in our power.“
“Your wife is almost fully dilated, and we are closely monitoring and assisting her, with great hopes she delivers soon, I will still keep you updated.“
With that little effort, statements and reassurance, it could help prevent a big drama afterwards. ***Our role as Registered Nurses and Midwives, even the trainees is not pretending to be superheroes but show up for them. It is just about being human, even if the situation is tough.
So, in case you find yourself in one of these moments, please bear in mind that your silence feels like you have abandoned your patient’s family members which a few words can helplighten up their fears and give them hope.
Be professional, Be kind, Speak up
 👩⚕️Ndubuisi Favour, Student Nurse @favouright |
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