Bad clinical day..

*Scrubs* · Apr 23, 2008

I am in my third week of clinicals (4th month of LVN school) and over all I have really loved it. Today was an exception. I witness an elderly pt who spoke no English being taken care of roughly (having her IV's pulled for dismissal and a PT done) and her not being talked to at all. There was no explianing the procedure no conversation at all.There were spanish speaking aides and a nurse with her. I felt so helpless as she stared at me. She basically had no idea what was going on ,only that it hurt. I left the room when it was over and went to the restroom and cried. I wasn't expecting to cry but it broke my heart.I need to hear that that is not the way it is supposed to be.And as a student how should I phrase my concerns when this is happening. i did tell my instructor. Thank you so much for being a sounding board.

I was not there- I do not know how rough they were with her- which there is NO excuse for- so telling your instructor is all you can do. LPN students cannot report abuse.

As far as not speaking to her while giving care goes, SADLY...it happens. Especially if she is confused, has a history of being combative and is known for not accepting care. I am not saying it is right, but when you care for someone for a long period of time and no matter what you do for them- they fight you or don't know what you are saying- you become fall out of the habit of talking to your patient. I personally had an experience like that when training to be an aide therefore...I always talk to my patients....

I am sorry you had a bad day. It is wonderful that you are so caring that you cried for your patient. The experience will help you remember...and you will be a better nurse for it. :twocents:

Leigh40 · Apr 23, 2008

Thanks for the reply. I know I will probably see more of this but man it is hard to not thump some ears while it is happening. I will just remember that this is not what I how I want to nurse nor do I want a student or family member seeing me nurse.I also need to learn spanish.Your post did help me feel better.Thanks

Fiona59 · Apr 23, 2008

Reporting abuse depends on local laws.

In my province, anyone can report suspected abuse of a resident in long term care. It's a 1-800 number and no names are involved.

Having said that you don't know the patient's history or staff's experiences of him/her. Talk to your instructor, get their take on it.

I remember my clinical days and being surprized that the things I saw. Things that were not the way the book said they should be done. Life and work experience will soon tell you what is realistic.

I've also seen clinical groups refuse to work in certain facilities after enough students complained about units and what they saw staff doing. Facilities have often refused to have clinical groups return due to the attitudes and behaviours of students.

So talk to your instructor. Chances are they have been there before and are familiar with the staff, residents, and abuse laws in your state/province.