[weavrvirgorising]

Hi all, I am just learning the dynamics of hospice nursing in a relatively small community (80,000 pop.). I am only 6 weeks into the job and already sensing that nurse case managers are the 'go to person, 24/7' here at this company. This was not clearly verbalized to me when I started, or should I have known this? Along with the fact that I am making $1.00/hr less that originally stated by the off-sight owner. So, after putting in over 40 hr last week and then 45 hrs this week, I am wondering if I should stay. Last week-end, even though I was not the on-call nurse, I was called to assist the on-call nurse when she had an emergency at home with one of her kids. The next night, same on-call nurse called re: a pt of mine; asking if I wanted to follow up with the call. (again, I was not on-call) My sense is that this job, practiced this way, will create alot of burnt out nurses in the same company. As the 4th of July weekend approached, I had to tell everyone, specifically the director; that I would be out of town and not available for calls or whatever. Am I overreacting? I do really love the rest of the job, something that I have dreamed about throughout nursing school; but I am not about to be on-call 24/7 for any job!! Thanks for listening...any enlightening thoughts? I do like the little faces..it helps you laugh about the absurd.

[lesrn2005]

Stand your ground! You go, girl!

[Sue Damonas]

The on call nurse should not be calling you like that. The on call nurse should handle those calls.

[doodlemom]

Originally Posted by Sue Damonas

The on call nurse should not be calling you like that. The on call nurse should handle those calls.

Or she should be calling the administrator if she can't

[Allow Mystery]

They're testing you, draw your line
in the sand and don't let them across.
Best wishes!

[ray2512]

If you don't know how to maintain your boundaries in hospice, you will burn out very quickly. Don't go against your natural inclination just because your a hospice nurse. Maintain your boundaries in every area of your life! Be strong and don't let people take advantage of you. Overcome this tendency to try and please everyone and it will be growth for you. Hospice is a good place to grow! Good Luck

[AtlantaRN]

If you don't stand your ground, they will walk all over you...

If the on call nurse had an at home emergency, the next person she should have called is the clinical services manager or the administrator.....not you

YOU must care for yourself, if you don't, you won't be there to care for your patients.

linda