2. How a Nurse Should Behave (Attitude and Character)
✅ DOs – What Nurses Should Do:
Be kind, calm, and patient at all times.
Listen carefully to the patient’s complaints or concerns.
Maintain professional boundaries – be caring, not too familiar.
Speak in simple, clear, and respectful language.
Keep confidentiality – don’t discuss patient issues with outsiders.
Be clean and well-dressed in uniform.
Be honest and responsible in all duties.
❌ DON’Ts – Things a Nurse Must Not Do During Work Hours:
❌ Do not gossip about patients or staff.
❌ Do not shout, insult, or be rude to patients or relatives.
❌ Do not ignore a patient’s request or pain.
❌ Do not use your phone for personal calls or social media.
❌ Do not sleep, chew gum, or eat in front of patients (except during breaks).
❌ Do not give medication without proper instruction or prescription.
❌ Do not accept gifts, money, or favors from patients or family.
3. Good Communication Tips for Nurses
Speak slowly and clearly.
Always listen more than you talk.
Repeat important information for understanding.
Be non-judgmental – don’t criticize or assume.
Use positive body language (nod, smile, sit at eye level).
If the patient is confused, calm them down and explain again.
If the patient speaks another language, find a way to communicate simply.
4. Key Personal Qualities of a Good Nurse
Compassionate
Respectful
Dependable
Observant
Team player
Willing to learn and improve
5. When to Report to a Supervisor
If a patient is unresponsive or gets worse suddenly
If there's a mistake in medication
If a patient or family is angry or aggressive
If you are unsure how to do something
6. Basic Body Language and Appearance Guidelines
Stand upright – shows confidence and professionalism.
Keep arms open, not crossed – shows approachability.
Avoid frowning or showing stress around patients.
Maintain personal hygiene – no body odor or strong perfume.
Trimmed nails, no long nails or flashy colors.
7. Dealing with Difficult Patients or Family
Stay calm and respectful.
Let them express their concerns – don’t interrupt.
Never argue. Say, “I understand. Let me see how I can help.”
Involve your supervisor if the situation escalates.
8. Time Management and Prioritization
List your duties at the start of your shift.
Attend to emergencies first (e.g., difficulty breathing, bleeding).
Be organized – do similar tasks together if possible.
Don’t keep patients waiting too long.
9. Confidentiality and Ethics
Never talk about a patient outside the hospital.
Don’t take pictures of patients.
Keep patient files secure.
Respect patient’s religious, cultural, and personal beliefs.
10. Documentation and Record-Keeping
Always write clearly and accurately.
Record time and date of care or observations.
If you don’t know how to record something – ask.
Never change or erase old records without permission.
11. Professional Boundaries
Be friendly, but not too personal.
Avoid discussing your private life.
Do not form romantic relationships with patients.
Never borrow or lend money to patients or families.
12. Emotional Intelligence and Stress Management
Learn to control your emotions in difficult moments.
Take short breaks when overwhelmed.
Talk to a senior or counselor when you're mentally exhausted.
Practice deep breathing or quick relaxation techniques.
13. Language to Use and Avoid
✅ Use:
“Let me help you.”
“I will check that for you.”
“I’m here to take care of you.”
❌ Avoid:
“That’s not my job.”
“You again?”
“You’re fine, stop complaining.