title: When the unexpected happens.
abstract: Last week I was working an evening shift when one of my clients had a serious unexpected incident. The client's family was present at the time and asked many questions and took notes. I felt I was being watched and judged. I was unsure about what information I should or could provide the family, but remembered someone once saying that it is better to say nothing in this type of situation. However, I felt it was important that I keep the family informed and offer empathy and care. Because I was unsure of what to do in this situation, I contacted an RNABC nursing practice consultant and reviewed our hospital policies and procedures. I know I did the right thing by keeping the family informed.
authors.forename: Lynne
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Gray
authors.forename: Grant
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Warrington
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D004282:Documentation; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D005195:Family Relations; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D014342:Truth Disclosure