As a pediatric nurse, you play an important role in the life of your child patients, as well as their families. It’s important to build a strong connection during in-home care to improve communication and overall treatment. Below, you’ll find tips to help you establish a strong relationship with their families.

How to Connect With Your Patient’s Family

1. Talk on a Personal Level

If you explain details about their child’s condition with medical jargon and academic language, the family is going to feel a disconnect. You want to work with them on a human level, so relay information in a way they can understand. This can make them feel more comfortable talking with you and will also show that you care deeply about ensuring everyone understands the details of the patient’s condition and needs.

2. Get Them Involved

The family will need to provide some care while you’re away, and they want to feel capable. As a pediatric nurse, you’re also a teacher, so get them involved. Show them basic care, such as repositioning the child, washing them, dressing a wound, or administering medication—tasks that don’t necessarily require your services at all times. Teaching is a great way to bond and another step in ensuring you care about them understanding what’s going on.

3. Listen

As the family feels more comfortable with you, they’ll begin to talk more, sharing opinions and revealing personal details. Make sure to stop and listen. They want to remove the disconnect between nurse and patient, and by showing an interest in them, they’ll feel that you’re truly part of their home care team. This can cultivate optimism and create an overall better experience for everyone involved.

If you’re a pediatric nurse looking to connect with families in Westchester and Orange counties, Monroe, and White Plains, NY, our team at J&D Ultracare can assist. We provide ongoing educational opportunities for our employees, as well as ample benefits, and will ensure you have all the resources needed to care for your patients. Call (845) 357-4500 to learn about opportunities with our nursing staff agency and visit our website to learn more about our company. You can connect on Facebook for news and updates.