HNN120 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Professional Boundaries
HNN 120 Week 6 Seminar Note
What: have I learned about professional boundaries in nursing?
Yes. To be honest, it is my first time to hear this word. Comparing to my previous
study in China, we haven’t been taught in this part of knowledge. On the contrary,
Asian country is more based on relationships and groups. For example, there was
time when we were doing observation study in an advanced hospital, the head nurse
who led us answered several phone calls during the teaching process and explained
to us that she was helping one of her relatives accommodate the bed in a new unit.
At that time, I felt a little bit uncomfortable with her behaviours but I don’t know
whether I could have done different or not if I were her at that position. Until I
learned today’s class.
Professional boundaries of nurses refer to the lines between nurses and patient,
which used to protect patient interests and nurse’s personal space. In other words,
the relationship between patient and nurse is limited, in which things like
therapeutic communication is allowed while making friends in life is not allowed. If a
nurse or patient break the professional boundaries, they are contradicted to the
purpose of health care delivery.
In terms of example like friend request on the Facebook, it is wise to decline firstly,
and explain the reasons like guidelines according to the way that pt. can accept.
Lastly, giving the pt. professional help like supporting groups in her area.
So what: impact will this have on my nursing practice?
1. In my following professional life, I will monitor myself as well as my colleagues
not to cross the professional boundaries, creating a healthy and safe
environment for all the people.
2. Why it is important?
a. Keeping the professional boundaries helps protect nursing development of
career.
b. The boundaries are set to maintain equality in patients’ interest.
c. It is helpful to build a supportive environment for both nurses and patient
d. It is good to build trust and respect between patients and medical workers.
e. Minimise the risks of his/her profession and patient safety.
3. Mental health first aid. Definition/aim/five basic steps
What are the facilitators for effective communication?
a) Showing understanding,
b) warm welcome,
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