The observer experiences despair and worry. Doors open to skepticism, distrust and fear. The reputation of the nurse is jeopardized as well as is the facility's reputation. Yes, nurses are aware of this. However, it is not their first priority, nor should it be.
Nurses make attempts to provide understanding to others.
They relay information they have gathered. They are prohibited, however, from relaying information on other residents due to the confidentiality laws. For example, Mr. Jones, a resident with renal disease who is on dialysis, asks the nurse for a glass of water. Visitors of another resident overhear Mr. Jones plea for water. They watch the nurse enter the nurse's station, retrieve a chart, and then return to him.