How to deal with fellow RNs who won't help CNAs and PCTs

DookieMeisterRN · Mar 5, 2012

When you find the answer I'd like to know too. It's frustrating when some nurses think the CNA is their personal help then there is no one to help you when you really need it.

tokmom, BSN, RN · Mar 6, 2012

Can the techs complain to management? Can you say something to management on how overworked the techs are? Ours are so verbal that nobody could ever be walked over, lol. They have no problem telling RN's they are busy and to answer a call light themselves.

locolorenzo22, BSN, RN · Mar 6, 2012

I'll usually get up and answer lights during vital rounds, med passes, etc. if I am not in a room or on my way to do something really important(round with dr., family having questions, new admission that I want to let know plans for tests/medication/etc.) If the tech is good enough to let me know they are going to be in a room doing a bath or they're behind, or the floor is really heavy, etc. I'll gladly go get my own VS during first rounds because "hey, I gotta go see the pt anyways".

That being said when I'm working with people who don't like to go answer lights, etc. I'll say, "hey, I've gotta go to 30, your light in 27's on, just so you know and the tech's in 28 washing them up." Or if I get up to get a light and there is 2-3 going off I'll say "guys, there's two lights." and I'll go get one.

short of living by example, I dunno. Just suck it up and do what you can. sometimes other little things have to go.

Merlyn · Mar 6, 2012

Question. Besides being an example....how does the RN deal with the other RNs who refuse to help their techs with patient care? The impact is that the CNAs and PCTs can not serve 4 nurses at once with all their duties as well as the STAT stuff. I will take my stat vitals, ekgs, and help change the bedding and clean up after poop and projectile vomit storms, as well as calming the patient. But some other RNs don't, and that makes it hard to find the tech when I REALLY NEED HER (him). In fact, I know of some RNs who don't even remember how to finger stick or do the ECG. So they just grab the tech who I need right now for something too. It is as if these RNs hog the techs and yes, I end up having to do more work than I should at times. I am not complaining. I would just like to know a way to let some of my fellow RNs know how their actions affect the team. But you can only imagine how offended many would be if I just came out and said, "hey, why don't you just stop gabbing for a minute and answer lights while I am in this code and NEED THE TECH...please just do your bed change so this tech can help me now with the STATS?"
I just don't know how to be diplomatic with this one. Thanks.

I have found that these type of nurses have a Prima donna complex. They are above everyone else but they are the first ones that will demand help. Other than the rest of the staff refusing to help them, there is not a lot that can be done. If you go to the supervisor, the Kings and Queenswill become resentful.