Be Nice

I received this text one afternoon from a friend who was visiting at the hospital:

“His diapers full of shit and no one attend to him! Am I allowed to kick up a big fuss?”

I lay back and thought about getting back to my nap. But my mind buzzed and so I texted back, “Be nice.”

From what I’ve read, it is the same the world over. Quality of care depends on two factors – are there enough staff members around, and do they care enough. If the hospital is understaffed, no point being nasty. Bring it to their attention, and help them out. It will be appreciated.

If it is a case of inconsiderate neglect, no threats will ensure your relative gets better care the next time around, especially if you’re not there all the time to monitor. You want to encourage cooperation, not incite passive aggression.

I first heard the phrase from my boss… as in “There’s been a complaint about you. Be nice.” End of conversation. There was no room for my explanation, and no further discussion. It rankled initially, until I understood.

What mattered was not “being right”, it was “being nice”.

A very nice Ozzie fruit, don’t you think?