It’s funny. In my everyday life, I’m not a big fan of rules. As far as I’m concerned, rules exist for the sole purpose of being broken. I like being unconventional. I like living my life in the land of “what if”. But as a nurse, I thrive on rules. I see them as a necessary means of protecting our patients, their families, and even us nurses. A hospital cannot function without rules. Our patients’ treatments and outcomes could easily be compromised without them. The rules may not always be popular or fun, but they are a must in the hospital setting. Even the most inane rule has a purpose.
As staff nurses, we are required to follow these rules and enforce them. And it never fails to astound me when patients and their families somehow think they are exempt. We post signs. We provide explanations. And yet, these people look right through us, as if we don’t exist, as if the words coming out of our mouths are unintelligible. Even worse, they become hostile, calling us names, questioning our competency, and making threats. And this doesn’t just happen here; it’s the same in the states.
I know it isn’t easy having a loved one in the hospital. I’ve been there and know they’re scared. But I can’t do my job when I’m constantly running into roadblocks. I can’t concentrate on my patients when I’m wasting time fighting the families. It’s frustrating and nerve-wracking. It makes me want to give up. I just wish these people could see I’m on their side. Just because I’m not telling them what they want to hear, doesn’t mean I don’t have their best interest at heart. My intent is to provide the best possible care for all of my patients. I wish they could see the big picture and comprehend the clinical rationale behind my words and actions. I know it’s a lot to ask, but I wish they would just try to understand.
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