What should the RPN do next when a client asks to speak to another RPN due to comfort?

• A. Ignore the request
• B. Speak to Candy directly
• C. Talk to the nurse and tell her that her behaviour might be perceived as inappropriate.
• D. Report to the supervisor

Answer: (C)

When a client expresses discomfort about a staff member, the essential step is to address boundaries and protect the client's sense of safety. The appropriate action is to talk with the nurse involved and tell her that her behaviour might be perceived as inappropriate. This does two important things: it communicates the client’s concern directly to the person responsible, giving her a chance to adjust her interactions right away, and it reinforces professional boundaries by naming the potential issue rather than letting it continue unchecked. If the behavior continues or cannot be resolved, escalating to a supervisor is the next step after attempting this direct conversation. Ignoring the request misses an important safety cue, and simply speaking to the nurse without clearly addressing the boundary issue doesn’t adequately communicate the concern.