CNA's not following policies and procedures

CoffeeRTC, BSN, RN · Apr 10, 2012

So, when you see them not following p and P and a resident gets hurt with a transfer, then what?

Not a good situation.

s.d.RN · Apr 10, 2012

Um yeah. Why would you want to be involved in a place that clearly does not believe that safety for its residents is top priority? I would find a new place. If a new job isn't an option, continue documenting things in a narrative manner (Remove the "I believe that.. they are so rude..." etc statements) and make it as factual as possible. That way if stuff does head sour, your rear is still covered. But I would honestly recommend finding a new employer that shows compassion for its patients and staff.

OnlybyHisgraceRN, ASN, RN · Apr 10, 2012

I worked for a facility like this and needless to say, I resigned. I was so sick and tired of CNAs not doing their job. I refused to put my license on the line. Management didn't back me up. I left. I was not worth it.

caliotter3 · Apr 10, 2012

I worked for a facility like this and needless to say, I resigned. I was so sick and tired of CNAs not doing their job. I refused to put my license on the line. Management didn't back me up. I left. I was not worth it.

I agree with this and the previous posts. Most of the situations can be shoved aside, but what about the one time when things really blow up and the finger is pointed at you? I would start the job search. When an RN is reprimanded for doing their job, there is something terribly wrong. By the way, the same thing happened to me. Reprimanded for doing my job and also reprimanded for the very acts I wrote up the CNAs for. How can the employer have it both ways?

evolvingrn, BSN, RN · Apr 11, 2012

Can you work under an LPN as an RN? that is bizarre. a place that does not hold their employees that they as an org. have set is not a quality place.

Anna Flaxis, BSN, RN · Apr 11, 2012

I once knew an RN who called a CNA on her cr@p. Management did not back the RN, and before she knew it, she was facing allegations of patient abuse. Unfortunately, in environments where CNAs are not held accountable, you risk this sort of retaliation. Also, as the RN, you are held accountable for supervising UAP. If the CNAs are not following P&P and management will not back you, I think this sounds like a bad situation for you.

gallllatea · Apr 11, 2012

This is why I will never work in a nursing home. Did you try to talk to the CNAs before tattling on them? Good communication is a must. Since it sounds like you're not going to get a good recommendation if you leave, I would start reading some books on how to influence people and make friends...etc...Yes, it sucks, but learn how to get on their good sides, so maybe they (the CNA) can meet you in the middle. Don't just make demands and then do a write up. You're not going to get anywhere doing that and it's so easy for a CNA to report that you harmed someone with a false claim. I've seen DOCTORS get fired for the things that spiteful CNA's said about them. Like fake claims of inappropriate touching etc.. These are things that are subjective and need no proof other than saying someone did it.

Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN · Apr 11, 2012

An LPN can be "in charge" over the RN but only as far as enforcing present policies and general employee policies but not over her medical practice and what she is responsible for as an RN. In that respect, whether or not the RN is in charge she is still considered the "higher" license and is held up to that standard.

OP, are these CNA"s acting outside their scope of practice? Or are they just not doing things the "right" way and being lazy. If administration doesn't make them follow universal precautions, that is their choice. As long as the CNA's are not abusive, if administration has chosen to ignore it there is really nothing you can do. Even If the CNA's actions are reportable, and you report them, the facility can find things to "discipline" you over and fire you.

The aides not wearing gloves or transferring patients properly does not endanger your license, per se, but it does reflect on the facilities lack of concern for quality. You could report them to The Joint Commission for not following the standards of practice and quality of care......but that won't protect you from retaliation and loosing your job on some trumped up charges and believe me they will make you suffer for messing with the status quo. employers are in the drivers seat right now with the economy which leaves you in a bad position.

Obviously with the lacking morals your license is in danger at this facility but I don't think there is anything you can do about it but start looking for another job and leave before something does happen placing your license in danger.

mindlor · Apr 11, 2012

Good morning everyone. I need advice. I have been working as an RN in LTC for 3 years. I love the residents and most of the staff. My problem is I have 3 cna's who do not follow policies and procedures, especially when it comes to transferring residents and not following standard precautions, ( they don't like wearing gloves). Occ. they are not very kind to coworkers and residents. I have been trying to deal with the issues on the floor but have had no success. I have now began documenting and reporting theses things to management. To make a long story short, I was disciplined for this. Supervision said I was "picking on them". CNA's were not disciplined and I am no longer permitted to be Charge Nurse. I am now working under an LPN whom I have total respect for but does not wish to get involved in the politics of it all. My concern is my nursing licence. Any advice as to what to do? Please help.

Well, first, try to re-educate the staff. Follow the stepwise disciplinary policy of your institution. If these employees do not change their behavior after being given these chances, then FIRE THEM.

I see way too many places that are slow to pull the trigger. There are tons of folk looking for work that will do things as they should be done.....

Now, if you are disciplined for trying to set things right then you need to find a new place to work. Quite obviously your facility has a disease with a very poor prognosis, incompetent managementitis.

chevyv, BSN, RN · Apr 11, 2012

What an awful place to work and I have to add that although they have you working under the LPN, if something goes south, it's your license. Apart from that, you have a few that don't like wearing gloves...... I have explained to some staff members about pts that have some mighty bug that they could easily bring home to their families. Not saying the pt has any mighty bug, but they could. MRSA is rampant in LTC. Sometimes that helps.

Have you helped out with transfers? Time and not enough bodies is often a major challenge in facilities. I worked in a ltc place a few years and would always assist with transfers when needed. Noticing and helping are huge. It's difficult to transfer residents safely at times because everyone is so busy. If you can help out, it will go a long way. Jobs are hard to find right now, but you may want to start to look. You may find one that better supports their nurses. Wishing you good luck!

chevyv, BSN, RN · Apr 11, 2012

Quite obviously your facility has a disease with a very poor prognosis, incompetent managementitis.

:rotfl::rotfl: :yeah: That was just way too funny!!