Just a rant over something irritating

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I just started working in an ER at a different hospital. At my previous hospital, nurses had different ways of collecting and keeping up with info. Some used a hospital issued form, some made their own, some used paper towels, whatever.

At this new hospital, we have paper triage forms. We use them to collect into, then it is transferred to the computer charting, then discarded in the shred bin. We don't have computers available for triage charting and that's why we use paper forms.

Well, the paper form doesn't include everything that is included in the computer form. Why, I have no idea. So, I typed up my own, just like at my other hospital, included all the same info and added what was missing. Another nurse saw it and ran over, questioning me about why I was using it, where did I get it, etc. Then, of course, she ran straight to the manager. When the manager didn't respond in what might be a reasonable amount of time, she went to her again, "reminding" her to look at it.

The manager looked at it and said "Well, this is basically the same thing. But, I would prefer if you use ours."

I just think a big freaking deal was made about something totally inconsequential. Like I said, it goes straight into the shred bin once we get it put into the computer.

I mean, really? I'm already rethinking my position in this department.

There have been a few other incidences of ridiculousness as well.

End of rant.

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Specializes in ER.

It does sound ridiculous. Prepare yourself for a back stabbing, tattletale time ahead of you. I think you've walked into a witches' coven.

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Here's my take. Stick up butt nurse was on the committee that came up with the paper form, maybe the highlight of her career. Over time the computer charting was upadted, but it costs money to change the paper forms, so they become outdated. Manager doesn't care what paper form you use but also doesn't want to deal with crazy anymore than she has to.

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"Crazierthanyou" LOVE your name!!

Anyways PP are right.

And just to sort of think about it, I would speak to the IT person if you can print out a blank computer triage form--and use that....but first ask the manager if you can, noting that there's some disconnect in the information that is needed for the computer, and what you get in triage. And where you are "orienting" and all.....Sigh. Some people just hold on tight to things.

I am oh so curious, however, what the heck others do...make the stuff up?!?!?!?!

I know it is a pain, but maybe on your triage forms you will have to make notes on the bottom. I KNOW a little whacked, but if everyone is on the "I was on the committee that CREATED this" bandwagon, not much more you can do.

Good luck!

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Specializes in ER, progressive care.

If they're going to waste their time on something petty like that...be prepared to have more of that coming. I could see if the paper form was part of the medical record but it's not. Maybe write extra notes on the triage form or on another piece of paper of something. And ask management why the heck they don't have at least one computer available for triaging.

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Specializes in Med/Surg crit care, coronary care, PACU,.

Sounds like the unit tattletale had to run to "mommy" to stir up trouble. If it is not part of the pt's chart, use what you feel is best for you. Charting after the fact is sketchy at best. Confronting your co-worker would be useless on her behavior, but recruiting her & others to get a computer where needed is oh, so much better use of that lapdog energy she has.

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It does sound ridiculous. Prepare yourself for a back stabbing, tattletale time ahead of you. I think you've walked into a witches' coven.

My thoughts exactly. Just jumped out at me as I read your OP.

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Specializes in Infusion Nursing, Home Health Infusion.

It's your license to protect, it's your ability to earn a living that is also yours to protect. If your paper work allows you to provide care in an efficient manner and factually and completely document that care.......well then tattle-tale girl can take a long walk off a short pier! You were innovative and a problem solver and I like nurses like that!

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Specializes in Hospice.

I'm missing some context, here. There's nothing in the OP that contradicts the possibility that the co-worker liked the new version and wanted the manager to approve it for general use.

Beware the self-fulfilling prophecy.

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