I gave a straight catheter for the first time ever today, on a 21 y/o paraplegic, mentally impaired, 55 pound (Yes you read that right) girl today. And although, I was able to keep up with my instructor's teaching (from giving her perineal care, and doing sterile technique) I accidently put the catheter into the wrong hole. It was a whole mess. We had to get another catheter, and do everything over again.
I have been practicing this procedure for about a year already, but what a sim man definitely does not teach you, is the pure difficulty of putting it in the correct urinary hole. In the sim man, there is a huge hole, there is a huge difference. I didn't expect it to be so hard.
I ended up apologizing to my instructor about five times. I was embarrassed for myself. And although, it genuinely seems that my instructor isn't mad...I don't know...I feel embarrassed...and disappointed in myself.
I always have a tendency to be incredibly....hard on myself.
Any advice at how I can get off...this low-mood train? Thanks.
After working in EMS and having a brother who is an experienced paramedic and firefighter I have realized that patients are all completely different. Even with things like IV.s! You may have done 100 right, but then you get someone who's veins are shot! There is no shame in making honest mistakes, especially as a student. There is also no shame in asking for help! You'll get there!
Farawyn
12,646 Posts
If you put the cath in the wrong hole, leave it there so you won't hit it the next time. Then go up.