I have worked as an LPN for 3 years, and recently started a new job as an RN at the hospital. I had a wonderful and supportive preceptor, and most of the nurses I work with are supportive and great to work with. Unfortunately there are nurses who are trying to act superior just because they have more experience.
For example, there is one resource nurse who comes to our unit once in a while to help out.
One time I was getting a new patient, and when the patient arrived I went to the room to see and assess the patient. The resource nurse was already in the room, and the moment I came through the door she immediately said to me: "Can you get a pair of socks for me?". The nurse's server was right in the room, just a few steps away from her, yet she had to ask me to get them. I haven't even had a chance to introduce myself to the patient, and for me it is important time to begin establishing rapport with the patient. These types of situations happened with the same nurse on several occasions. Another time I was hanging IV fluids and she came into the room "to help". She took patient's vitals and said to me:"I will let you write them down". She saw that my hands were full of IV bags and supplies, and I had to put everything down to document the vitals. This was more disruptive than helpful. If she had time to take vitals, she could have written them down herself, or let me take vitals when I had time to do it.
Another time I couldn't figure out how to disconnect some equipment, apparently I was not pushing the button hard enough. She came to me to explain how to do it, and I got it, but she kept repeating the same thing over and over slowly and loudly as if I was stupid or hard of hearing. (yes, I was not born in US, and I speak with an accent, but I am not stupid!).
When she is on the unit, I feel that she watches me closely and waiting for the chance to patronize me. I feel intimidated by her, and feel like I am walking on eggshells. It appeared to me that the resource nurse likes to be in control of the situation, to take over and to tell others what to do and when to do it. I like learning from others and never hesitate to ask questions if I don't know something, but I don't like to be talked down to or be bossed around. Being a new nurse does not mean being "less". I am very intelligent, empathetic, a quick learner, pay attention to detail, and have great work ethics. Being a new nurse I have caught serious errors made by "experienced" nurses from previous shift, such a diabetic patient not receiving prescribed insulin for BG 330, MD not notified (according to our policy, MD must be notified for BG >300). I believe no matter if you are a "new" nurse or "old" nurse, people should show respect for each other, and especially in front of our patients.
Has anyone ever felt the same way?
I am asking that only positive people with good attitude reply to my post.
Some people are just not considerate to anyone, regardless of age.
By the same token, when you get to be an "older" nurse, you may start to understand what might make them kind of crabby and impatient with the younger ones. I know I sure do. It isn't necessarily something that can be explained in writing, it is just a kind of intangible, abstract thing you have to experience for yourself. This doesn't mean they are right to be huffy or grumpy, but down the road you will probably have a defining moment where you begin to understand.
Honestly, if she is taking the vital signs........she should be the one to document them. I realize we all "help each other out"; but, if you want to get real picky with her let her know it is her responsibility to chart her findings.
I know its easier said than done, but you have to stick up for yourself. It gets easier with time, and you'll feel so much better. You don't have to be loud and confrontational, but you need to be professional and firm when letting a coworker know that you don't appreciate how they're treating you. Talk to her first, but if that doesn't work, go to your manager if need be. When I first graduated three years ago, my nurse manager told me that when people put their stuff on you, you have to put it right back on them, right then and there if possible. If not, the anxiety and tension you feel when dealing with a difficult coworker will only increase over time. It sounds like that nurse is taking potential teaching moments and turning them into demeaning ones instead, especially when she does it in front of your patients. She has to know that "teaching" you in front of them doesn't help build their confidence in you. Good luck.
In addition, you mentioned you have been an LPN previously. So it is not like you are brand new to the medical field. Basically, you have upgraded yourself to take the responsibilities of those working under you.
Be yourself, find your own system and above all be and advocate for your patients. You are the only one for those 8-12 hours who can make a true difference. If you don't know something, don't be afraid to ask. If you make a mistake (as we all do) admit to it, correct it, take the heat and hold your head up and go on. Above all enjoy this profession for as long as you can. Many times it is a very rewarding job, especially when you go the extra mile. Patients and families generally show their profound appreciation. Good Luck!
Specializes in Corrections, Psych, Crisis Stabilization.
i would report this to the d.o.n
a lot of hospitals are promoting retention-retention-retention! let them know that this "resource" chick is being condescending,over bearing and rude. let them know that she treats you as if you are stupid, bringing your confidence down so low, that it prohibits you from asking questions.
most hospitals will not stand for this. they will see this as a sheild that will scare most nurses away, and with the nursing shortage, sweetie, they will do what it takes to reduce high turn-overs. i believe you should report it, maybe even in writing, anonymously. make sure its well thought out and well written. include the situation, the potential problems and always offer a solution. a good solution would be to suggest that she attend the upcoming teambuilding workshop, or allow another strong, positive "resource" nurse to offer her a mentorship for a few weeks.
at least the higher-ups will take your letter very seriously if they see that you are interested in making their facility your home.
Specializes in med/surg; nurse manager, critical care.
I am an older nurse. I have never treated another nurse or CNA in the way that you described. Unfortunately I have seen nurses - young and old- that have treated their co-workers in that manner. I think it is more about personality than age. The older nurse you are talking about was probably just as obnoxious when she was a young nurse.
As an older nurse, I feel a real need to pass down my knowledge to the newer nurses and CNAs. There is a good way and a bad way to do so. Many times, while working along side of a co-worker I will share a way of doing the task or some other knowledge. The co-worker can choose to listen or not. I never push the situation.
What frustrates the older nurse is the new nurses acting as if they "know it all". Trust me when I say that it took me a couple of years just to feel comfortable with my nursing skills. Older nurses can be mentors, if you find the right one. The right nurse for a mentor is one who isn't condensending and loves to share knowledge.
If you are having trouble with an older nurse, treat her like you would any other co-worker. Tell her your observations and how she makes you feel. If she will not listen then go to your manager and have a private discussion about this older nurse.
Trust me this nurse does not represent all us older nurses!!:wink2:
Jo Dirt
3,270 Posts
Some people are just not considerate to anyone, regardless of age.
By the same token, when you get to be an "older" nurse, you may start to understand what might make them kind of crabby and impatient with the younger ones. I know I sure do. It isn't necessarily something that can be explained in writing, it is just a kind of intangible, abstract thing you have to experience for yourself. This doesn't mean they are right to be huffy or grumpy, but down the road you will probably have a defining moment where you begin to understand.