Feel so bad!

[JDZ344]

Had a lady I forgot to check for incontinence etc. I had her confused in my mind that she could use the toilet and she was sleeping all night and didn't call. . I feel AWFUL! She was not turned, checked or anything the WHOLE night! In the morning, she was soaked in urine. I did apologise to her as I cleaned her up, but I feel so bad!

[CoffeemateCNA]

We are all human and so we all make mistakes from time to time. Especially since we are working in health care, it is inevitable that stuff WILL happen [though I am SURE management would beg to differ]. We are responsible for TOO MANY people, and management turns a blind eye towards it. I have made the same mistake you have, and I'm sure there are many others here on allnurses that have, also. What's done is done, so don't beat yourself up about it. You can't go back in time and change what happened. Just learn from this experience and use the knowledge you have gained to provide better care to your patients in the future.

I do commend your for your excellent attitude towards the situation. I can't tell you how many CNAs/PCTs there are that would just ignore the situation or pretend that it never happened. The fact that you are upset about it, owning up to it, and apologizing says a LOT about your character. :)

We all have these moments. Learn and move on. You WILL get through this!

[nursel56]

Don't be so hard on yourself- it's over, it's done, and if you're like the rest of us, you will be extra vigilant about that issue for the rest of your life :) I'm sure the lady may appreciate your apology, but I'm sure she can sense your caring nature. Best to you.