My client overheard my colleagues talking about my upcoming birthday. On the day of my birthday, he offered me a gift card for a local restaurant. Can I accept the gift?

Generally, nurses should avoid accepting gifts from clients, as doing so can blur professional boundaries and potentially compromise the therapeutic nurse-client relationship. Maintaining clear boundaries is essential to providing safe, ethical, and client-centred care.

In limited circumstances, accepting a gift may be appropriate—particularly if refusing the gift could harm the therapeutic relationship or be seen as disrespectful. These situations require careful consideration and professional judgment.

What should I consider before accepting a gift?

Before accepting a gift, nurses must ensure:

• it does not change the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship
• the client does not expect anything in return, such as special treatment
• it does not negatively affect other clients or members of the health care team
• the monetary value is modest and appropriate
• they consult with their employer or follow organizational policies.

See Professional Boundaries and Nurse-Client Relationships practice standard  for more information.