Just....walk out of the room

[u/NursingManChristDude]

Here's a PSA for my fellow nurses, in case anyone hasn't realized they can do this:

If a patient is being rude to you, just walk out of the room. If necessary, don't even say anything beforehand. When you return, at the time of your choosing, simply ask them "Are you ready to be more respectful?"

I haven't had to do this often, because I am aware of he misogynistic attitude patients have in treating me, a male, with more respect than my fellow female employees.

But, it's like having a secret weapon in your back pocket at all times, and you should never feel disrespected/mistreated/abused by your patients. They need you, not the other way around. This certainly falls under the category of "nursing hack".

[u/pashapook]

I've done this a few times, but I've usually said something like "you will not speak to me like that" or "I will NOT be yelled at." It's usually led to some version of an apology and better behavior when I come back. I usually then tell them that I understand they're in a very stressful situation, but I and my colleagues are here to help them.

[u/iopele → u/pashapook]

This. Usually I can check a rude patient like this and that's the end of it. For the times it's not, I have no problem walking out and telling them I'll be back when they can behave appropriately.

[u/NursingManChristDude → u/iopele]

Good ☺️ 👍

[u/NursingManChristDude → u/pashapook]

Nice 👌