Is It Racism or Something Else?

I had to call a Health Centre Nurse in one of the NWT communities that I service this month. My (Indigenous) client has been out of their antidepressant for a month. The nurse I spoke to said that my client was an adult (20’s)and needed to take responsibility for ordering their medication. I explained that my client was confused, anxious and under pressure from outside influences. My client had last taken medication a month ago. I did not feel that the nurse was interested nor had the time or patience to hear my professional explanation. I have 30 years experience and a strong understanding of the impact of trauma and depression. My client is a victim of partner abuse on top of all this. My client, like many of my indigenous clients, cannot advocate for themselves because of previous and in some cases ongoing trauma. My client who demonstrates incredible courage by attending counselling is extremely uncomfortable with the thought of potential conflict. I was not given the opportunity to inform the nurse. I felt caught inbetween because if I go to the Nurse In Charge or CEO I will have to disclose without client consent which I cannot do. If I identify my client by name I risk the level of safety I have worked hard to create for my client. I don’t know if that nurse was burning out or racist. Maybe even having a tough day. The point I hope to make is that some people who are clinically depressed have difficulties with cognitive functions like memory. I am hoping this interaction I had with the nurse was an anomaly. I know lots of health care professionals who truly understand and care. This one nurse in my respectful opinion would benefit from culturally and clinically sensitive information. As a professional I want to apologize for this nurse’s actions and for anyone else who may have had a similar experience. Please don’t paint all professional staff with the same brush. Most of my colleagues get it. I share this to validate those who have no voice or hope or belief that although this happens infrequently it does happen. Please do not give up. Keep reaching out until you find the right care giver.