Breaking all the RULES

[Selene006, BSN, LPN]

I had a difficult time finding a nursing job (about 15 facility applications filed!) so when I got hired to work in LTC, I had no choice but to accept the position because my bills were piling up. Yesterday was my third day with my preceptor and I watched her: sign for treatments 24 hours in advance of completing them, sign off on bowel sounds that were not auscultated, write MD orders for staples to be removed (when she didn't call the doctor!) and the list goes on!!! I even watched a nurse sign off on med count ALONE by signing his coworker's signature because he was "strapped for time!" I had been feeling quite nervous about the job, but yesterday, I left feeling physically drained, disappointed, and a little sad. These nurses knew that they were not doing the right things and continually justified their behavior by saying, "if I don't do it this way, I'll be here all night." I also heard alot of, "don't do it this way when The State comes in--just do it like this so we can get ahead."

I can't wait for my preceptorship to be done so that I can do things the RIGHT way!

[pattylpn54, LPN]

you do what you know is right and do it the right way. always remember --- it's your license you want to protect and cya...document, document, document!!! good luck and god bless you.

[Jules A, MSN]

I would look for another job. Its not unusual for things to be done a bit differently in 'the real world' vs how we were taught in nursing school but the things you have mentioned sound like out and out fraud to me. I'm so sorry this is happening where you work and would suggest giving notice.

[Selene006, BSN, LPN]

Thank you patty and Jules for responding. I am currently searching for a new job, but it's been unbearably difficult to get a job with my new-grad status.

Today at work I was left on my own to do 8 wound dressings and assess 28 patients. I liked it. I worked at my own pace and was happy to document my treatments as I went down the assignment list.

Thank you for your encouragement!