I work as a tech on an orthopedic unit of a hospital. I am also working on pre-reqs for nursing school. Last night I had 15 demanding patients to take care of (the other tech scheduled had called in sick). I had nasty nurses barking orders at me, three incontinent patients, call lights ringing, people wanting to be taken to the bathroom....you know the scenario. No report was given when I came onto the floor. I accidently gave apple juice to an NPO (who was also on contact precautions). I had given him a quarter cup before I saw the sign on the door. I told the nurse and received a verbal lashing...she also made sure that as a pre-nursing student I realized what a huge mistake this was. She then proceeded to tell me that the poor guy was on a feeding tube, has diabetes and aspriation pneumonia and is a DNR. I am so upset. There is no excuse for giving an NPO a drink. I take full responsibility for that. But, I got no report from her when I came onto the floor. I work very hard and I love my patients. I enjoy them and their families. I take extra time and give extra attention to my dementia patients who are ignored on my unit. I am a good person and would never knowingly hurt someone.
I plan to speak to the unit manager today about what happened. I am so upset. Any advise?