forging initials on mar

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Specializes in Geriatrics/Alzheimer's.

I recently noticed on the MAR at the LTC facility i work in, that a nurse had put mine and other nurses initials on there. The weird thing is that she put our initials stating that a resident had been up in a chair on 11-7 shift with a self-release belt which did not occur. She also put my initials on a shift when I wasn't even on duty. I am very upset but not sure the proper way to handle this situation. I've been a nurse for 10 years and nothing like this has ever happened to me. Any advice?

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Specializes in Coronary Rehab Unit.
I recently noticed on the MAR at the LTC facility i work in, that a nurse had put mine and other nurses initials on there. The weird thing is that she put our initials stating that a resident had been up in a chair on 11-7 shift with a self-release belt which did not occur. She also put my initials on a shift when I wasn't even on duty. I am very upset but not sure the proper way to handle this situation. I've been a nurse for 10 years and nothing like this has ever happened to me. Any advice?
Sounds like someone needs to be "written up," as it's called at my place of employment. If someone did that to me, I'd go straight to the bosses, get them written up..... but only so if you're certain it was that particular individual. In any case, if anyone documented something under my name/initials, I'd still go to the powers that be and tell them what went down, even if you don't know for sure who did it. That's no minor thing....... protect yourself!!!
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Specializes in Geriatrics/Alzheimer's.

I think I'll do that. I guess I'm still in shock over how dumb someone could be. She must not cherish her license like she should. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe her license could be pulled for that.

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Make sure you do this in writing and keep a copy.

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Specializes in Geriatrics/Alzheimer's.

Apparently this type of thing has happened involving the same nurse before. If I report this, and it happens again, should I or should I not inform the state board of nursing? Do you all think that would be too much?

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Specializes in Med Surg.

AN is full of posts from nurses who reported incidents of this sort only to find themselves thrown under the bus by an employer trying to cover their own butts with the state. Get your ducks in a row, report to your DON, and see how the facility reacts. Whatever you do protect your self first.

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Specializes in Geriatrics/Alzheimer's.

Thanks for the advice everyone. I'll let you all know what happens.

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