JOURNAL ARTICLE

Reflecting on 'difficult' patients: how can nurses strive for a fair approach to care?

  • Published In: British Journal of Nursing, 2026, v. 35, n. 7. P. 386 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Elliott, Chris 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the challenges nurses face in providing equitable care to patients labeled as "unpopular," often characterized by repeat attendance, socioeconomic deprivation, and perceived self-inflicted illness. It highlights how these factors contribute to nurses’ frustration and moral unease, potentially undermining professional values of compassion and fairness. Despite longstanding awareness of this issue, negative perceptions persist, reinforcing health inequalities such as the "inverse care law," where those most in need receive the least care. The article emphasizes the importance of reflective practice and organizational support to help nurses recognize and mitigate biases, aiming to align care delivery with professional standards of dignity and equity. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:British Journal of Nursing. 2026/04, Vol. 35, Issue 7, p386
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Nursing and Allied Health
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0966-0461
  • DOI:10.12968/bjon.2025.0400
  • Accession Number:192796516
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of British Journal of Nursing is the property of Mark Allen Holdings Limited and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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