At work, I’ve recently been given the opportunity to bring a laptop home to complete work without distractions from others and theoretically cut back on hours.
In theory, this seems like a good idea, but I’m not sure how well this would actually work. If anything, this might resolve in me working even more since I would have access to check up and follow up on things over the weekend and other days I have off. I can see myself checking in frequently too, since I almost always have at least one or two patients I’m worried about.
Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.
14 hours ago, SilverBells said:
This evening, I was thinking about a patient and how she was doing. She had some test results that weren't available by the time I left work today. I was tempted this evening to look them up, and then decided against it. I figure I left work for the day for a reason, and I can always find out tomorrow.
That's a start! Please learn to leave work at work.
Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.
On 4/18/2021 at 12:30 AM, TriciaJ said:
I know that I am late to this party, but your upper management must really love you! They can drop anything on you and you gamely shoulder the responsibility. Do you think at some point the bigwigs will invite you to swim in their pool? No. When you collapse in a heap they'll have you hauled off to the glue factory and your replacement will already be installed.
You cannot save the world. You need to develop a persona separate from your job. Being a nurse cannot be your whole self. The people you work for have lives and have no qualms about you not having one. Save yourself.
This is so well said. I have spent time in management. EVERY. word. of. this. is. true.
But do you have a need to know while at home? No. You are not caring for the patient from your home. Please stop making excuses for yourself.
In some cases, there might actually be a need to know if a VA report needs to be made (not applicable in this case) or if staff need to be updated if the patient would be prescribed a new medication based on findings, etc. A lot of times, I'm able to find that information out quicker than the floor staff are, so it is helpful at times.
My colleague and I have been granted permission to complete work at home as needed, including following up on orders, testing, etc. It is within our job description. However, as stated, I am making an effort to limit this activity as much as possible. I definitely understand your concerns, though.
SmilingBluEyes
20,964 Posts
That's a start! Please learn to leave work at work.