[candygirl]

A question for the experienced nurse. What are your opinions on nurses "crossing the line" with patients by becoming either too involved or too close with them?

This is a question that can be interpreted in many different ways; please approach it however it first comes to mind.


Nursing Student

[nursinghumor]

Here's an extreme but true example.

Psychiatric Nurse, Sued By hospital After Developing Relationship With Client?
Wright v. Mercy Hosp. Of Janesville - 557 N.W. 2d 846 - WI (1996)
Summary: Doctors and Nurses by nature of their positions deal with patients when they are vulnerable, off-balance and emotionally needy. When the population includes the psychiatric patient, the potential exists for a client to develop "feelings" for the caregiver. In this case, a sexually abused mother of three was admitted for multiple mental disturbances. During the course of the treatment, a relationship developed and led to sexual encounters following discharge. When it came to light, the patient successfully sued. The hospital would attempt to recover damages against the nurse following her testimony in defense of the facility. This is commonly called a Subrogation action.
http://www.nursefriendly.com/nursing...ses/082299.htm
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Andrew Lopez, RN
http://www.nursinga2z.com