Fight with pct

[Beverly1982]

So the last time I worked, one of the LPNs (they do CNA work at my hospital) got absolutely livid with me when I didn't have time to do a bed change with her the other night. I genuinely did not have time since I was in the middle of giving meds, and she started yelling at me, etc. This was the first time I have not been able to help her when asked. As long as I've worked with her, there is no "delegating" anything to her. I do my job, and then help her with hers. She seems very bitter about the fact that she's doing CNA work, so I think she already resents the RNs anyway. Anyone have any advice on how to smooth this over? I tried to talk to her about it already but she was way too angry to discuss anything.

[jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B]

Just because one does "CNA work" doesn't make them any less of a nurse. Her scope may be whittled down to that of what a CNA would do, however, she is still a licensed nurse.

With that being said, no one goes to work to be yelled at. Inappropriate, rude, and disturbing to the patients. I would not hesitate to excuse myself from that situation, go directly to your charge nurse, explain that said LPN was being rude and yelling, and let your charge deal with it from there.

I would not say a thing to her directly. Doesn't matter what the role of the LPN is, she should know better. And if she doesn't, then there are other people who are higher on the payscale than you to deal with such behavior. Going forward, the MOMENT one begins to raise their voice and yell regardless of the content of the conversation, I would say, in a very low tone"excuse me, but you are inappropriate. You may discuss this with charge, and not with me". And go about your day.

Do NOT engage. I repeat, do NOT engage.

[Been there,done that, ASN, RN]

Why would you want to "smooth things over" ?

Interrupting your medication administration, raising her voice, and continuing the altercation in front of a patient are all inexcusable and unprofessional. Her current role and her problems with it is not an excuse to act that way.

She needs to be written up , not coddled.

[mama.RN]

This behavior is not acceptable in any work environment...I was in similar situation once with someone who consistently seemed resentful of her position and of being delegated tasks, took it out on nurses and once even a patient. It got to where I avoided asking her for any help, since it was so unpleasant to deal with the wrath. Brought it up with higher ups and she was let go. I felt bad, but there are plenty of people who do a great job, are willing to work together, minus the attitude and rudeness. I think an occasional slip for anyone is ok, there may be something going on at home or whatever, but if it is a pattern, they need find a job elsewhere.