TOPIC:

Hi,
I have a follow-up appointment soon. I was considering buying a gift for the hemo and his nurse who helped a lot setting up my meds. I don't know how it works in the US. Would it be ok to buy flowers for the doc and some chocolate for the nurse? Doc is 80 y.o man and his nurse is a 25 y.o lady. I don't know what the rules are here in the US. Checked the internet and some people had spoken against flowers because of allergies, and of course, I don't want to spend money on sth that I cannot give to them.


Thanks.

I've given donuts to the nursing staff at the hospital.

Also when a dermatologist Physicians Assistant finally figured out what my problem was, on the 1st visit no less, and got rid of a derm problem I'd had for many years [and seen all sorts of doctors about] - I sent her a card with a heartfelt note inside, I heard she appreciated that note more than anything!!   

My hemo is part of a cancer clinic and just my opinion from 12 years there- my doctor doesn't accept gifts and it appears that no one does. He likely feels its unethical for him to accept a gift- hey he doesn't even like being thanked! He deflects it. But just what I've noticed at this particular cancer clinic, is when people bring in flowers, the flowers are set out on the front desk for the patients and everyone to enjoy. Or if its candy, baskets of fruit, it goes onto the back desk infusion room for the patients to eat the candy, fruit and enjoy the flowers. Also I think because of Covid they might not allow open boxes of candy, not sure but I noticed all the candy they have out is individually wrapped.

I think doctors might appreciate patients who write positive reviews on Yelp and online review sites.? That might be a way to express your appreciation or like Mel mentioned, a thank you card. Just my thoughts, sounds like you have excellent medical care.

Flowers and chocolates and donuts are a token of thanks, in my opinion not a gift.  Eating chocolate or donuts a patient brings isn't unethical to me, it isn't a bribe or a way to get extra attention it is a thank you!  And knowing many nurses I know for sure they really appreciate donuts and being thought of.

When I have taken donuts to the hospital staff on the floor I was on or a friend was on they were then taken to the nurses break room for all the staff to enjoy.  Nothing wrong with donuts and a thank you note!

Personally due to allergies I think I'd skip flowers.

Show me a nurse who doesn't appreciate donuts or chocolates, or biscuits or cakes. Sometimes we were so busy that was what kept us going. 

Thank you mrsb!!    Our daughter in law is an RN and every now and then I get a couple boxes of candy & a card of "thanks for all you do" and give them to her to take to work for her & her colleagues just to let them know someone appreciates their hard work and dedication.

(and I do not expect, nor want, donuts or chocolates to be shared with patients - when I give them I expect those who worked hard to enjoy them)

Lman - curious what you decided to do!