I mean no disrespect, but there are times when I get so frustrated by family members. Sometimes I really wonder if some of these people really understand what they are doing when they take up the time of the nurse asking us to do things that are really not a priority. Here is an excellent example:
Nurse: I will be hanging this TPN, changing the tubing and assessing the patient.
Family: Can you get my husband a box of tissues .... oh he needs these right now because his nose is running.
Nurse: certainly, I will be right back.
Nurse: Here are the tissues and assist the patient with the nose running.
Family: I am sorry, but he also needs some ice as he has a very dry mouth because the doctor will not let him eat anything.
Nurse: I can only give him a few pieces of ice dear as the physician has made it known that he does not want him taking anything by mouth. I will be right back.
Nurse: Here are a few ice chips. Now I really need to hang this TPN.
Family: Ok, I know, I have been such a pain today, I am sorry. But, he needs to use the bedpan, he says it is urgent.
The TPN is still not hanging.
Sometimes I think that families as well as patient's do not understand the thinking and the time that goes into providing care. When I am caring a patient, I am not just worrying about getting their bed made or about their ice water .... I am focused on what their labs are, why are they in a tachy rhythm .... and thinking (critical thinking) my way through their care all the time. When I enter the room to perform a procedure or complete a task, it drives me crazy that families take so much of my time. Perhaps it would not be so bad if I am not rushed at every minute of the day trying to get all that needs to get done, done!
I need some counsel here .... is it me or do the rest of you feel the same way?
Oh, here is another thing .... just as you are getting ready to do something important, the phone rings and the patient has to take the call. Guess who it is? Yup, usually his wife, who just left 5 minutes ago. :angryfire
