Is this the norm?!?

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I recently began a job in LTC as a new graduate, and am more than a bit concerned...I know LTC is demanding, but is it the norm to skip (what I consider to be essential) assessments, like vital signs? (I actually had a supervisor tell me to "Just make them up.":eek:) Additionally, I have witnessed meds, such as numerous anti-HTN's, given all in one med pass so the nurse did not have to do a second med pass, accuchecks skipped all together and MAR's falsified to reflect that the accuchecks were performed. Also, eye and ear drops documented as given, even though the bottles were still sealed...for a week! No one listens to bowel sounds when a patient c/o nausea, or takes a BP when a patient with known HTN has a headache -- the patient simply gets two tylenol, and is told, "This will help.."

When I questioned these practices, another nurse told me to "This is how we do it here. If you want to work here, you'll keep your mouth shut." Is this how it is, or am I simply in a rotten facility?

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Get out! This is not a safe facility! Have you looked up their most recent violation reports? I bet they probably get written up by state alot. But yeah, this is not the norm at all. Safe LTC facilities are not like this.

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Specializes in LTC.

You are in a rotten facility. I'd run and let whatever agency in your state that deals with these things a detailed account of your stay.

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Specializes in wound management,EKGS and patient care.

I cannot believe what am hearing omg if that is true it is sad.what kind of nursing practice is this those who do such things needs to be charge i see this as crimes against humanity.how can you not check vitals and administer HTN drugs that is so sick.

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Get out while you still have your license!

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Get out while you still have your license!

AMEN! RUN!

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OMG!!! You must report these illegal practices to your state BON, and remember as nurses we have the unique challenge to protect the quality of life of those who come into our care! I hope you do the right thing and don't conform because of a pay check. Good Luck!

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Specializes in Cardiac.

That's terrible!

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Specializes in Med surg, LTC, Administration.

I am saying this with all respect, just do your job and don't worry what others are doing. Do what you know you should do. Checking bottles and worrying about other nurses, is not your concern. No one should ever tell you to commit fraud. Once you say no, report your concern to the DON. Then let her, investigate. Do not play police, regarding others work. This will get you in trouble. Not everything is as it appears, especially when you are a new grad. Besides, you should be so busy, that you don't have the time to worry about sealed bottles or others " forgotten meds". We are mandated to report fraud and abuse, but, make sure you are certain, very certain, if you do. Peace!

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I agree with everything Chin Up said. It sounds like that facility needs someone that actually cares that they do their job correctly and that is what you are doing.

But to answer your original question, no, that is most certainly not the norm in LTC.

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

Keep your license....RUN

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Specializes in ER/ MEDICAL ICU / CCU/OB-GYN /CORRECTION.

Resign - without a 2 week notice - every shift you work is one closer to you being in a dangerous situation. Your skills and ethics have been compromised enough already.

I would then send a letter to the ombudsman and the state inspectors.

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