You'll have to bare with me as this make take some time, but I feel I have to get it off my chest as I am so angry.
This morning I went to work. We have a staff shortage, but this morning, we were fully staffed plus 2 students (I know they don't really count, but they are physical "bodies" if you understand my drift). Those of you who know me may recognise my ongoing problem, but this morning took the biscuit.
I work in the neurology section of a recently merged neurosciences ward (with neurosurgery). Often the nurse in neurology is left on his/her own with NO help from Health Care Assistants (HCA). The neurology section being off from the main ward and usually less heavy. (I don't like it but it's a long story).
Well this morning I knew it would be hard work as I worked a night shift on Saturday night. They were 9 patients, 4 of whom needed virtually full assistance to wash, needing either hoisting or needing assistance of 2 to transfer. 1 of these patients has Guinne Barre Syndrome. I also had a patient who had been fitting (only "mildly" but fitting nonetheless). PLUS 2 neurosurgical lodgers who were going to theatre. During handover this morning the F grade Sister in charge delegated people to areas. I was allocated to neurology. I asked for a HCA to work in my section.
I was told "No, there isn't enough staff."
I said, "There are 4 patients to wash/hoist etc PLUS theatre runs. Can I at least have a student?"
"No, if you want help come and ask for help as and when you need it"
At this point I was angry, but didn't let it show. I just persisted.
I said, "NO, I am not working on my own, it's not safe. I am not busting a gut. Plus I have a patient who was admitted fitting."
Queen ***** then said, "Well me and so and so finished for 8.30am the other day"
Well I persisted and she eventually gave me a HCA, saying she "would need him back later". I wouldn't let him go.
Now THIS is bad enough.
But I started to think. How could you honestly do ALL washes PLUS medicine round BEFORE 8.30? We finish handover by 7.30. That means 1 hour to do ALL that.
I was speaking to the HCA who came to help me, who said that the Sister, when she was working in neurology "the other day" told the patients - get this -
"We are too busy to wash you this morning." And just washed patients hands and faces and was "too busy" for mouth care. He also said that the sister told patients that she "couldn't take them to the toilet straight away" and patients ended up being incontinent.
No wonder they finished for 8.30am!! I am so angry and upset, not only because she wouldn't let me have any help, but mostly because of LACK OF PATIENT CARE!
I am SO angry.
The senior sister is on annual leave this week, I am not sure when she is back but I intend to report this. But I am wondering if it is worth me waiting until the senior sister get's back or is it worth going higher? What I am saying IS only hearsay, but why would he lie?
Your thoughts and ideas appreciated.