I need some VENTilation...

[SteffersRN87, BSN, RN]

OK... I had a really bad few days at work during the past week... And, I need some peer support and words of wisdom...

I work on a short stay unit and we get invasive diagnostic and surgical procedure patients and patients diagnosed with cancer receiving chemotherapy, blood and blood products, and stem cell transplants. We do take PTCA's. And we serve as inpatient overflow for our oncology unit which means that at times we must do a stem cell transplant. I must say that I love the diversity of the unit and have awesome co-workers.

But... Our hospital and health system are going through financial hardship... I know, hard to believe, right? They are thinking about moving our interventional cardiology to another hospital and the stem cell transplant program to the large hospital in the system. So, our manager is really trying to "keep us going."

Today, I worked 11a to 7p. I came in at 11a and had three patients - a cardiac cath, a RBC transfusion, and an oncology overflow for chemo. However, once the magic 3pm hit, I added a post-op tubal ligation that was staying overnight because of pain and another RBC transfusion. So, I had five patients. At 3pm, our manager downstaffed our secretary and PCA/monitor tech because we didn't have the "numbers" to support them. We all ran our tushies off for four hours with five patients each without any ancillary assistance. And, of course when it rains it pours. My one RBC transfusion developed hives and rigors. I finally walked out with a co-worked at 8:45pm because I had to stay so that I could chart and put orders in. And, the patients were so angry with us because of course we did not give them the care that they deserved.

I am very frustrated with this situation! Anything to save a buck! I feel as if I risking my nursing license. I have been a nurse for two years and feel like I am always on top of it, expect the last few days! So, I'm sure we will get an earful when Press Ganey scores report back for the month.

Anyone know of any great places to work in the Pittsburgh area??? LOL

[Virgo_RN, BSN, RN]

Sounds like a rotten day. I hope your next shift is better.

[CABG patch kid, BSN, RN]

Sorry you had a rough day The thing that doesnt make sense is how did they send your ancillary staff home? Did they count the census before the admits, send ppl home, then make you admit? If so, thats BS! Ugh, I know how you feel, some shifts just make you want to quit, then other days you go to work and think "wow, I'm getting paid good money for this!" Here's hoping your next shift is like the latter of the two :)