Have you ever experienced doctors wanting to administer meds instead of the nurse?

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Have you ever experienced doctors wanting to administer meds instead of the nurse?

I am a new nurse in the ICU and I have done a total of 2 synchronized cardioversions. The first time it went fine. I drew up the etomidate, gave it when ordered to, flushed it in, and we proceeded from there. This most recent time, the doctor didn't want me to give the etomidate. And he didn't say anything until right before either so I was prepared to give it. He ended up saying "I'll take that" and pushed it himself. 
 

I don't understand why he didn't want me to give it. I know he's let other nurses do it before. He doesn't know anything about me but it felt kind of personal. Has anyone else experienced something like this? 

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existentialoasis said:

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... He doesn't know anything about me but it felt kind of personal. Has anyone else experienced something like this [emphasis added]? 

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And it might be as simple as that, he doesn't know you.  Don't let this bother you, it isn't worth the worry.

Best wishes.

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Specializes in Critical Care.

 It is not that deep, let it go.

It is an ego thing.

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Some docs just like to do that with new nurses until they get used to you. So relax no biggie!

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Specializes in ICU/ER/Med-Surg/Case Management/Manageme.

Agree with others.  Not worth your time to worry about it.  But I will say this - always document the pure facts noting the drug was drawn by you, the amount, etc. but was administered by Dr. XXX.  You drew it up, he gave it.  Would I give a drug YOU drew up unless I watched every move you made?  Nope.  Anything goes wrong, the joke is on him.

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Specializes in ICU/ER/Med-Surg/Case Management/Manageme.

I thought of another thing.  Why not simply ask that doctor why he wanted to give the drug instead of allowing you to do so?  Not in an accusatory tone, certainly, but in a "fact-finding" tone.  And with a friendly face.  A tone, expression, and words indicating you know you are new to the profession and simply trying to learn.  You may be pleasantly surprised at the response.  

PS:  Would I have done that as a new nurse?  Maybe not.  As an old and experienced nurse?  Ohhhh, yeah.  But really, as an old nurse, I probably wouldn't even care. ?

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