Narcotic keys sitting out, mold, mice and missing nurses-should I quit?

Dear Nurse Beth Advice Column - The following letter submitted anonymously in search for answers. Join the conversation!

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I have worked in the same nursing home for eight years. I used to be full time, and was even the unit manager for a little while. 

When I had my son, I went per diem because my husband and I decided I would only work on his days off. That way, we wouldn't have to put him in daycare so young. 

The nursing home is falling apart. There are several shifts a week where I come in to the narcotic keys sitting on the desk somewhere because there was no nurse at all the shift before me. I can't even count on my hand how many times there hasn't been a nurse for entire shifts these last few months. 

There have always been roaches, mice, and rats in this building. As well as mold and it is extremely dirty. State does know about these things. I have reported it myself. 

I have tried to leave the last couple of years but I can't seem to find any place that accommodates this schedule, however, the staffing issue is really bothering me. I have a bad feeling and I want to listen to my gut. 

My son starts preschool in three months and I can leave then. Should I wait that long or should I keep trying to find another job now? I have a feeling that something bad is going to happen when I'm in the building and another unit doesn't have a nurse. I cannot take responsibility for 120 patients. There have been times where I was bullied into "holding" the keys for another unit. When I would refuse, management would tell me I'm just holding the keys and it doesn't mean those patients are my responsibility. I still don't know the truth in this, but I don't want to take my chances.

Thank you.

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

I strongly recommend you start looking for a new job immediately. Your instinct is trying to protect you because it's only a matter of time before something serious happens. There are too many ways this could go wrong. 

The administrators will not protect you if (when) there is a sentinel event. I would hate to see you take the fall for an unethical administration that is manipulating you and putting your license on the line.

The situation you describe, where there are no nurses for entire shifts, is very troubling. A lack of nurses compromises the safety of the residents and your professional liability. Being asked to "hold the keys" for another unit is a major red flag. If the patients are not your responsibility, why not store the keys elsewhere?

Roaches, mice, rats, and mold present immediate patient safety and hygiene risks and contribute to infection control problems. The failure to address these reported issues is highly concerning and indicates that management is not prioritizing the safety or health of residents or staff.

Again, start your job search now. Given your experience as a nurse and unit manager, you will find a role in an organization that values your expertise and family life balance. 

You've been very dedicated to this facility for a long time, but you deserve a workplace where you feel valued, safe, and supported.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Specializes in LTC/Rehab, General Hospital Medical.

Have you thought of agencies? There's a bunch of them right at your fingertips in the app store! Depending on the agency, you can pick where you go and the pay is better. You can work as much or as little as you want.

I've worked in some nasty nursing homes, so I understand what you're going through. But if there are NARCOTIC keys on the counter, I would RUN. Not worth that nursing license to pick up and take responsibility for those narcotics and probably untreated/unmedicated patients.

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