Lisa O
Nurses hear everything: the good, the bad, and the super ugly. From demanding patients to overbearing doctors, they manage it all with poise. Still, some things can really test even the most patient nurse’s limits. These moments might make them want to strangle someone with a stethoscope! Here are 15 things you should never say to a nurse.
“Hey/Hello, Nurse!”
Nurses are not here to be stared at—they’re busy saving lives! They don’t have time for that kind of attention. Fortunately, younger generations might not even know this outdated phrase, so it could soon fade away. We’ve all seen those cartoons with the nurse who’s the object of some silly character’s affection. It wasn’t funny or new the first dozen times, and it definitely hasn’t had a positive effect over the years.
“Do You Only Go Out With Doctors?”
Anyone who’s actually been around a doctor knows that dating one is nearly impossible. They work crazy hours, deal with constant stress, and have big egos. Who wants to handle all that? Plus, there is a rule to avoid relationships with coworkers. Spending over 12 hours a day with someone might create a strong bond, but it doesn’t mean they’ll make the best partner. If someone asks a nurse this, they’re probably watching too much Grey’s Anatomy.
“Nurses Just Follow Doctor’s Orders!”
Nurses work with other nurses, report to them, and are part of unions and groups just for them. Edie Falco from Nurse Jackie nailed it when she said, “Doctors diagnose. Nurses save lives.” Nurses are the ones in the trenches. They spend the most time with patients, so they’re the ones who spot problems or see progress. Even though doctors and nurses work side-by-side, it’s the nurses who handle the nursing care.
“Why Didn’t You Become a Doctor Instead?”
This incredibly annoying and disrespectful question comes in many forms: “Why didn’t you become a doctor?” “Was med school too tough?” No matter how it’s asked, the underlying insult is clear: doctors are better than nurses. That’s not true! Let’s see a doctor handle everything a nurse manages so effortlessly. Remember, behind every great doctor is an even better nurse.
“Anyone Can Be a Nurse.”
Can you handle keeping track of many medications, managing 20 patients, performing CPR in emergencies, dealing with blood and injuries, and keeping records accurate? If you can, you’re cut out for this. Nursing isn’t for everyone, so not everyone becomes a nurse. It takes a special set of skills, patience, and perseverance. If anyone doubts it—we’d love to see them give it a shot.
“I Could Never Do Your Job!”
This statement is meant to show appreciation for nurses, but it implies that all nurses do is deal with bodily fluids. Sure, you might not handle a nurse’s job, but not for the reasons you think. Being a nurse is very difficult and needs smart, educated, and practical people. Nurses are leaders, caregivers, and clinicians with loads of technical and medical know-how and top-notch decision-making skills.
“You’re Such an Angel/Saint/Hero.”
Nurses don’t need to be called heroes or saints. They just want to get their job done safely. They need proper protective gear and mental health support to handle the tough stuff they see every day. Fair pay and better working conditions are also a must. More than just praise, they deserve real respect and appreciation for all their hard work and dedication.
“Nursing Is Just Like What You See on TV, Right?”
Medical shows can be entertaining, and many nurses watch them, too—but they don’t always show what hospital life is really like. Nursing groups have even criticized shows like Nurse Jackie for their portrayal of nurses. Before these shows, nurses rarely got the spotlight on TV. But we know the truth: nurses are the backbone of any good healthcare system. They’re too busy fixing up the (metaphorical) messes doctors leave behind to be the center of attention.
“What Exactly Does a Nurse Do?”
When a 5th grader is doing a report on what they want to be when they grow up, a question like this is really sweet. But when it comes from a snarky patient, it can be pretty frustrating. What don’t nurses do? Well, they care for patients, keep records, remember and give out medication, take and give orders, manage emergencies, handle stress, and tackle the “dirty jobs” doctors often avoid.
“Why Is It Taking So Long?!”
Patients count on nurses to keep their healthcare experience smooth and positive. But we all know things can get crazy in the medical world. Emergencies and unexpected situations happen all the time, so patients might not always be seen as they expect. When a patient complains, “What’s taking so long?!” it can be frustrating, especially when you’re doing everything you can to help everyone.
“Do You Know What You’re Doing?”
Of course, they know what they’re doing. Nurses only perform tasks they’re trained for and comfortable with. Remember, they’ve completed a 3-year university course and countless hours of hands-on training. While nursing is a career of lifelong learning with new challenges and skills, they would never do something they don’t feel confident handling.
“I’ve Got (Insert Ailment); What Should I Do?”
Your GP is the best person to see if you need medical advice. For more serious issues, consider going to a nearby hospital. Nurses already work long, demanding hours so it’s best to keep minor questions for them to a minimum. Everyone deserves a day off, so let them enjoy their time off without being bogged down by small issues.
“You’re Just a Nurse.”
“Just a nurse?” Absolutely not! You’ve probably heard fellow nurses brush off their roles like this, and it can be really frustrating. Nurses are the backbone of every successful healthcare facility, so don’t let anyone downplay your importance. Stand up and be proud of the critical role you play. And if someone says, “You’re just an LPN,” remember that LPNs are nurses, too, and they make a huge difference in patient care.
“Can You Get Me Some Meds?”
Shows like Nurse Jackie make it look like any nurse can just walk into a pharmacy and grab whatever they want. We know that’s far from the truth, but people outside the medical field might believe it. Many nurses get requests from friends or family to get medication without a prescription, not realizing that this could cost the nurse their license! While some nurses can laugh this off, it’s a serious issue for others.
Anything About Sexy Nurses
Unfortunately, the old “sexy nurse” stereotype is still hanging around. Even though we’re more aware of gender equality now—some people still see nurses as nothing more than eye candy. This shows up in comments from patients, unwanted advances from drunk guys, and even in those sexy nurse costumes that sexualize the role. How can the nursing profession be taken seriously when it’s still stuck in these outdated and disrespectful stereotypes?