Giving Medical Advice To Family and Friends - should you do it?

Ask Nurse Alice

How many times has a friend or family member asked you as a nurse to provide your opinion on a skin rash or ask advice about a medical condition or medication? While the caregiver in you is usually happy to be of assistance because you've done tons of patient education at work, what about when you're NOT at work? Did you know that could possibly ruin a good family or friendly relationship by causing unnecessary worry or giving erroneous advice that could lead to missed care or a lawsuit, especially if it's deemed that you're operating out of your scope of practice?

In this episode Nurse Alice offers advice on how to juggle being a helpful and well intended off duty nurse and friend/family to someone who is asking for medical advice so you avoid any personal and professional trouble.