Communication With Family and Friends
Professionally introduce yourself to the patient's family and friends.
Briefly explain the procedure to them.
Explain why they must leave the immediate area during the exposure.
When you take a patient back for exam, it is important to give the family an approximate amount time the exam will take. If the exam is taking longer, it is appropriate to go back to the family and give them an update. If the procedure is going to be a long one, you can let the family know where they can locate things such as vending machines, the cafeteria and restrooms. If at all possible, it is best for a patient's family to wait in the waiting room. In some cases, a family member must accompany the patient into the exam room. You should be sensitive and empathetic with the family member. If the family member gets upset or angry or questions your abilities, remember he/she is under stress and worried about his/her family member. If you cannot calm down the family member and keep him/her calm, you may need to ask for assistance.