My DON is a Gem!

Specialties Geriatric

Published

I started a new gig, RN, nights, LTC and rehab. I alternate between two wings.

The 0600 med pass is impossible. Close to 30 residents get meds, at least 10 get BG readings and SS insulin, I have been frantic. I haven't been able to turn over the cart on time, nor do those who have been doing these passes for awhile.

My count was also off this morning, by one pill. The nurse coming on said she didn't want to involve the DON and I said we had to. And the DON was behind the door! Nurse was explaining that it could have happened on the afternoon or evening, I just stated that I had signed off on the count as correct and it was on me. I asked the DON, half kiddingly, if she wanted me to pee in a cup and she just laughed and said it happens once in awhile.

I also told her that I was never, ever going to finish the pass on time. She asked why and I explained that while there were a lot of meds there were also a LOT of diabetics and other monitoring. I suggested that we change half of the pass to 5 am which would give me plenty of time, and that I was not comfortable with giving dig without an apitcal, etc., even if they weren't required because I felt it was unsafe practice.

SHE IS CHANGING THE TIMES.

This group is so unlike any I've worked with. We ALL work together, RNs, LPNs, aides. When I told the aides on my wing tonight that I would be in the break room they thanked me! They like communication. When I toilet someone they thank me. When they help me - and Lord knows, they do - I thank them.

I can't believe I am working with such a great crew.

:)

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Specializes in Community, OB, Nursery.

So wonderful when people have each other's backs. :)

Glad you are working in such a place, Sue.

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Haven't I said that before. The work is the same everywhere, the problems are the same everywhere, people are the same everywhere. However, it is how people interact and work together that will make or break you. I also say that it is up to management to provide the leadership that creates a workplace that flows well.

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The thing that was so astonishing to me was that she realized that it WAS NOT ME, that it was a system issue. And she listened!

I am so incredibly relieved. I was DREADING going in because I knew the pass was going to be a bear, and - we slayed the bear!

I also know that some of this is that my co-workers really like me, and boy, is THAT a switch!

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Specializes in Peds Critical Care, Dialysis, General.

I'm so thrilled to hear your new situation is working so well for you! You are awesome and YOU ROCK!

Teamwork is so highly underestimated. Love it when I'm with coworkers who understand this a team effort and just get in and do what needs to be done. And to have management listen - priceless!!!

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Specializes in AA&I, research,peds, radiation oncology.

The great thing is that although you're an RN, you're extending a helping hand and you're also getting help back. It will get better!!! Once you get your groove, it'll be even better!! Kudos to the DON for not only listening and excepting your advice, but putting it into motion!! Yeah TEAMWORK!!:clpty:

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Where do I need to apply??? It must be called nursing heaven ltc and rehab...Lol. I am glad you have such a supportive and teamwork oriented place to work...CONGRATS !!!:yeah:

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Specializes in LTC, assisted living, med-surg, psych.

Sounds like you're working in a LTC that's much like mine.:D

Sue, I'm so happy for you.........you've finally found the right combination!! YAAAAAAY!!!!

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Peds, Ortho, LTC and MORE.

At the facillity I work at, once the current medication orders for the month, have been reviewed and signed by the attending physician, it would take a physician's order to change the medication administration time(s). as said physician is a part of the "team". Please be sure that each attending gives approval and that there is an order to change the time, so that the pharmacy has that time change order as well. This policy where I work has "saved" us a time or two from the State Search and Destroyers err I mean the State Surveyors.

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Thanks, reigen. I'll let the DON worry about that.

QD meds that are not ordered for a specific time can be changed, BTW. What we will do is schedule the Prilosecs, Tylenol, Synthroid, and vitamins and minerals earlier while leaving the time-critical meds such as insulin alone.

:)

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Specializes in Gerontology, Med surg, Home Health.

While I'm happy for you that the DNS listened to your concerns, I am concerned about starting a med pass at 5 am. For most people that's too early to be awakened. And, at least in Massachusetts, taking an apical pulse is not standard practice for anyone on Dig. As one doctor said to me, if they have no symptoms of dig toxicity, their hearts probably needs the extra 'squeeze' . Just a thought.

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We already start the 6 am pass at 5. We'll be starting at 4.

If you have a way to bang out that many meds with that much insulin coverage safely with one nurse at what works out to about 3 minutes per patient please do share.

I would prefer not to awaken them, period.

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