Anyone been through major state problems?

[WickedRedRN, BSN, RN]

A little background, I came from a facility that has had perfect surveys the last 3 years. I left because I was recruited for a UM position, really liked what the DON said. Needless to say, what was described to me is not the way it really is. Since I have been here (5 months), the state has been in 5 different times on complaints, all the other UM's have resigned, and a total change in admin.

I am beyond frustrated to say the least. Please someone tell me it will get better? My question is, have any of you worked in facilities that operated like this, and were they able to turn it around? I am fighting like hell to get things shaped up, but I swear somedays I feel like I am not even making a dent.

I told hubby this weekend I think I am to the end of the rope and time to leave this ship myself. Sad thing is, I feel horrible for the residents, and the thought of leaving them behind.

[CapeCodMermaid, RN]

If you have the backing of management you should be able to make a difference. I've been the DNS at my facility for less than 2 months and the state is due any day. I've already told corporate that I am fixing things as fast as I can but I also told them not to expect a perfect survey. I will get this building running the way it should and you will fix things at your building if management is behind you. Good Luck.

[mercy1975]

A little background, I came from a facility that has had perfect surveys the last 3 years. I left because I was recruited for a UM position, really liked what the DON said. Needless to say, what was described to me is not the way it really is. Since I have been here (5 months), the state has been in 5 different times on complaints, all the other UM's have resigned, and a total change in admin.

I am beyond frustrated to say the least. Please someone tell me it will get better? My question is, have any of you worked in facilities that operated like this, and were they able to turn it around? I am fighting like hell to get things shaped up, but I swear somedays I feel like I am not even making a dent.

I told hubby this weekend I think I am to the end of the rope and time to leave this ship myself. Sad thing is, I feel horrible for the residents, and the thought of leaving them behind.

Picture this, my first job as a DON, first experience ever, 2 weeks later state walks in. The facility was in big trouble!! Anyway 1 year later we are still struggling (no money or backup from management or corporate) and someone called in a complaint. I was so glad to see state walk in that i actually had tears. My residents had not had their needs met, lack of equipment, adequate nursing hours, etc. Finally corporate would have to comply and finally listen to me.

Within one day we had it!!! From then on management did listen to me

but it was a struggle. You must have management support. You can't go it alone or you'll burn out. After four years and constant trouble from corporate I had to leave for my sanity and being close to burn out. Plus I now had a small baby, 7 year old, my husband travelled and I was the only RN. I was tired of the middle of the night runs and bringing my children in. What us nurses do for your residents!!! But we love them!!!!