Home Sweet Home: Setting Boundaries with Your Pediatric Nurse

Creating a comfortable and organized environment for your child and their care team starts with setting clear boundaries and expectations. Address these key areas to ensure that you and your pediatric nurse can focus on providing the best care for your child.

1. Entry Protocol

• Knock First: Would you prefer that nurses knock before entering your home, or are they welcome to enter immediately at the start of their shift?

2. Parking Arrangements

• Parking Location: Where should the nurses park when they arrive at your home?

3. Attire Preferences

• Nurse’s Attire: Do you prefer that nurses wear scrubs or appropriate street clothes? Consider how different attire might affect your child or family members.

4. Shoe Policy

• Footwear: Do you want nurses to change into different shoes or use shoe covers after entering your home? Note that OSHA requires nurses to wear shoes while on duty, but your preferences may be accommodated.

5. Restricted Areas

• Out of Bounds: Are there specific areas of your home that you would like to remain off-limits to the nursing staff?

6. Bathroom Usage

• Preferred Bathroom: Is there a particular bathroom you prefer nurses to use?

7. Supply Storage

• Supply Room: Where can nurses find paper towels, toilet paper, light bulbs, batteries, and other supplies?

8. Kitchen Facilities

• Refrigerator Use: Can nurses keep food and drink in your refrigerator during their shift, or should they bring a personal cooler?
• Microwave Access: Are nurses allowed to use your microwave to heat their meals?
• Dining Area: Is there a designated area for nurses to eat, or can they eat in the child’s area?

9. Laundry and Trash

• Laundry and Trash: Where should nurses place the child’s laundry and trash? If you want these items emptied at the end of each shift, where should they be placed?

10. Pet Protocol

• Pets: Are there special instructions for nurses when greeting pets upon entering your home?

11. Nighttime Communication

• Emergency Wake-Up: How should nurses wake you in the middle of the night if necessary—by knocking on the bedroom door or calling your cellphone?
• Non-Emergency Updates: Would you like to be informed about non-emergency clinical changes during the night, such as fever, pain, restlessness, or the need for respiratory treatments?

12. Comfort Items

• Security Blanket: Does your child have a specific toy or blanket that provides comfort? Ensure the nurse is aware of this to help your child feel secure.

By setting these boundaries, you can create a harmonious and efficient environment that supports both your child’s needs and the smooth operation of in-home care. Clear communication and preparation help ensure that everyone involved is on the same page, contributing to a positive care experience.