How do you address your patients?

Just looking for the method you use most after introductions. Last edit by anonymurse on Jul 18, '08
I usually say Mr/Mrs, but sometimes I ask them what they would like go by. Must of them tend to like me calling them y first name.

I have always said mr. or mrs.

Since the vast majority of my residents are elderly, I have always said 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.'

My pts are all kids, so I voted "by first name," although I will call them things like "buddy"

Usually they get called peanut, sweetie, bugaboo, etc...Those are just the ones that are under a year old!!Otherwise, first name basis, as my pts are all kids..

Initially, I address my pts. as "Mr. or Mrs" but after that, especially if they are elderly, I will address them as "Miss Betty", or "Mr. Sam". This is a Southern way of expressing respect to them as being older and is an acceptable form of greeting in the South.Eliza

Quote from MeghanRNUsually they get called peanut, sweetie, bugaboo, etc...Those are just the ones that are under a year old!!Otherwise, first name basis, as my pts are all kids..

I do kids, so I usually give them a nickname

Quote from suannaI've heard many of the same nick names used when addressing our adult patients- And we wonder why our patient sat. scores are so low!

I use the first name when calling the patient from the waiting room, then sometimes is sweetie, buddy, or another nickname. Working in peds the options are endless

My patients are babies, so they all get called by their first name when they are good, and all three (or more) names when they are naughty.Parents are called by first name....

[quote=elizadream;2977921]initially, i address my pts. as "mr. or mrs" but after that, especially if they are elderly, i will address them as "miss betty", or "mr. sam". this is a southern way of expressing respect to them as being older and is an acceptable form of greeting in the south.[font=book antiqua]we always call our patients "miss betty" or "mr. sam." also, instead of saying "what?" or "excuse me?" we say "ma'am?" or "sir?" these words really help make the patients feel respected.