We are blessed to live in an age where patients have all sorts of rights. In addition to the others I’ve discussed, the right to be treated with fairness and equality are among them.
Let’s face it, your loved ones can’t always be with you in the hospital. As you grow older it probably isn’t as necessary as it once was to have your parents always at your bedside. Occasionally, you may encounter a medical professional that behaves one way when your parents are present and another way when they aren’t. If you find you are not being dealt with respectfully, don’t hesitate to tell your parents, guardians or somebody in charge.
This happened to me on occasion when I was young. There where times when a certain nurse or phlebotomist routinely behaved unprofessionally when working with me. Some of these people were unskilled at their job and had an unpleasant attitude to go along with it. At first I was hesitant to say anything because I liked to avoid conflict and didn’t want to get anybody in trouble—I grew out of that.
Eventually I learned how important it was to inform my parents. I discovered if I didn’t speak up, the problem wouldn’t go away. Instead it only grew worse. If something like this happens to you, do yourself a favor and tell your parents. Maybe the person taking your blood was being disrespectful toward you; perhaps a neglectful nurse needs a good talking to by their boss; or maybe you were acting out and had it coming. Whatever the cause is of mistreatment, your family needs and wants to know. You don’t have to put up with ill-treatment or neglect.
Just understand, regardless of your age, despite the illness you have, or what color your skin is, you have the right to be treated with the same respect as any other patient. Remember, if you aren’t able to stand up against the injustices that may occur against you, help those who love and care for you so they can.
