6,784 Posts
Okay...I'm sorry for this...and it is most definitely not meant harshly:
I personally am not and never have been okay with the idea that my duty could be met and my due diligence considered done by reporting to whomever happens to be in charge that day. I understand that plenty of places consider this an appropriate chain of command for serious patient concerns; I do not (although keeping CNs in the loop is important, and they are also often valuable resources). My duty as a nurse is to make certain that any concerning findings I may note are reported to the provider responsible for the patient. I am the one with the first duty to that patient.
None of this is to say you or your CN didn't make appropriate decisions. It's also not to say that you can't consult with your CN. It's just meant to be food for thought, and to empower you. :) You can do it. Take it as a learning experience.
Mrs.D., BSN
132 Posts
I'm sorry you had a tough time with that one. Have you talked this out with any of the more senior nurses on your floor? Perhaps by talking about what you did, what you would change, what they would have done, etc., you will feel better?
Being a new grad, I believe it would be expected that you might want to talk bings out that are new experiences to you. I bet it would be helpful even for senior nurses.
Good luck to you.