I can't stop thinking about this patient that the doctor failed.

[JeneraterRN]

Heartache...absolute heartache. I won't go into the details due to patient privacy, but yesterday I had the most horrible experience. My patient was being grossly misdiagnosed and being discharged despite my frequent but respectful objections. The doctor involved was having a terrible situation at home, and my charge nurse and I believed her to be emotionally incapacitated. Our DON was contacted, and the dispute eventually was presented to our CEO. The doctor was replaced and we flew the patient to a specialist. I don't know how she is currently doing, but it was a 12 hour long process to get her there. I fear irreparable damage for her due to the misdiagnosis and delay of treatment. I'm personally a mess from the experience. I can't sleep tonight, and was assured by everyone involved that idid the right thing from the start of the shift by being an aggressive patient advocate. I fear for her. The thought that so much hinges on our actions is paralyzing me. I don't want to be a nurse anymore. I don't want to watch people succum to illness, lose their children, or have their lives shattered any more. Kudos to all who can deal with this better than I. May you all find the peace that eludes me.

[mama_d, BSN, RN]

Ditto to all of the above, and :hugs:

Have you considered talking with your facility's chaplain, or going through your employee crisis line? Especially in situations like yours, the chaplains aren't just for the patients.

[exnavygirl-RN]

I hope if I'm ever in that resident's situation that someone like you is my nurse. You are a true avocate. I've had to fight for my patients and have strongly considered leaving the nursing profession. The only thing that keeps me going is the love of my residents and my love for them.