Dealing with Difficult Patients: A Nurse’s Responsibility

As a nurse, encountering challenging patients is an inevitable part of the profession. It can be demoralizing to treat a patient who is uncooperative or even hostile. However, it is essential to maintain professional integrity and continue providing quality care despite these challenges. This article explores the best practices for handling difficult patients and the importance of a nurse's commitment to their duties.

The Emotional Toll and Professional Approach

It's not uncommon for nurses to feel frustrated or even emotional when dealing with patients who are difficult or unappreciative. As one nurse mentioned, putting on a “big girl panties” and smiling can be a necessary strategy to keep up appearances in a challenging situation. However, it is crucial to differentiate between genuine care and putting on a facade. A nurse should always aim to provide quality care, regardless of the patient's attitude.

Making the Best of a Difficult Situation

While it’s important to be patient and empathetic, some patients are consistently difficult and seem to test the limits of a nurse’s professionalism. Take the example of two patients currently in the ER who have been there for a prolonged period. These patients are particularly challenging, and it’s natural to feel dreading their upcoming assignment. Despite the difficulties, the nurse decides to remain professional and ensure that the patients receive the care they need, even if it means ducking fast to avoid being hit or assaulted.

Praying for Relief

As much as the nurse tries to manage the situation, there is a genuine hope for a change. They pray that the patients will be accepted into a facility that can better address their issues, thus reducing the burden on the ER staff. This reflects the underlying desire for a positive resolution and the recognition that the challenging situation is temporary.

A Call to Action

One perspective suggests that a nurse should resign if they consistently have trouble dealing with difficult patients. This is a drastic measure and should be avoided. The job of a nurse is to care for patients, and it’s impossible to pick favorites. While it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, nurses must prioritize their professional responsibilities.

Reflecting on Personal Patterns

Another viewpoint recommends self-reflection. If a nurse finds that they consistently have trouble with particular types of patients, it may be an indication of a deeper issue. Perhaps there are personal patterns or underlying feelings that need to be addressed. These challenging patients might be chosen intentionally to help the nurse recognize and address their own reactions to such individuals. Self-awareness and personal growth can lead to better patient interactions and overall job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Nursing is a noble profession that requires dedication and a commitment to patient care. Difficult patients can test the limits of a nurse's emotional and professional fortitude, but it is essential to maintain a professional demeanor and focus on providing the best possible care. By reflecting on personal patterns and striving to improve, nurses can better handle challenging situations and continue to provide the compassionate care that is so vital to their profession.

Keywords: difficult patients, nursing responsibility, patient care