seasoned l&d nurses-please advise

Specialties Ob/Gyn

Published

I am a new grad who just started as an L&D nurse.I'm frustrated almost daily by a particular situation,and need help,but also want to know if this situation is a common occurrance in your units.

Doctors are rude and "scold" nurses for things beyond their control.With every other delivery,a dr. wants something that is missing from a cart.The techs are responsible for stocking,but it's not being done,and consequently it's me who has to deal with a dr.'s rudeness.

I've spoken to other nurses about this,but have been told that I "have to understand where the docs are coming from".That advice seems one-sided,without respect to nurses,and where nurses are coming from.

It seems as though most nurses here have accepted this situation,although one nurse begged me to speak to the mgr. about the cart stocking problem.I'm not comfotable doing that...I'm new!

Any help?Thx!

All you can do is stand up for yourself. A good response to a doc doing that is just to say, please don't shoot the messenger. Also, remember, that rudeness is unacceptable no matter what your position in any job. If other nurses have chosen to sit back and take it, then that's their problem. Doesn't mean youhave to. You can accomplish all of that without being rude yourself. Just remind them that you are new and doing the best you can. If you have to take them aside after or during a delivery, do it. Stand your ground. It will help you in the long run. Also, I would take a look at your delivery cart well before the anticipated birth just to make sure you have everything you are likely to need. make sure your O2 and suction are on the wall. Check your Stabilet,ambu bag, laryngoscope tray, etc. That is all your responsibility well before someone comes on to help you with the actual birth. hang in there. The ability to anticipate will become easier as you are there longer.Don't worry about the other nurses. Just take care of you and your needs. If you need to go to your manager, go with your needs: NOT those of other nurses. Maybe you can make some positive changes.

Betsy...Thank you...I've been so unhappy since day one.Your comment give me hope.Any suggestions on how to approach mgt without sounding like a know-it-all?

Upi're not a know-it-all if you have concerns about your safety as a newish nurse. Genuine concern that you have patient safety as your number 1 goal (not to mention your own safety) should be enough. Just be genuine. If your unit is too stressful and/or your manager is a jerk, get some experience and move on! Good luck. Always think of your own professional growth.

I'll keep that in mind.thanks for your time!

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