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/murse_joe]

I’ve done that. Honestly, it’s like the advice we give to new parents. Healthy baby that’s crying, you can put them in a crib and let them cry for a minute while you compose yourself. It’s better than trying to care for them angry and flustered. If the babies in real distress or anything, it’s different. But same thing with our patients. If they’re in distress, jump in. If they’re just being an asshole, it’s fine to tell them that you’re going to step out for a few minutes and come back and help them.

[u/NursingManChristDude → u/murse_joe]

Bingo! 👍