Need Creative Thinker!

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Nov 8, 2007

you did not mention if you were currently using any tools so I will offer one that has helped me. I create a grid with the room numbers of my assignment down the side and the hours across the top. Then I write in each block the number of meds due that hour for that patient. I cross them off after they are given, at the same time as I write them in the MARS. I also jot in MD for when the MD comes/calls. Delta sign for change of dressing. TX for any type treatment. Just make up shorthand to serve as reminders. I do this at the beginning of the shift to help me plan my work but it also helps as I work to make sure I don't forget something and at the end to create a report. I shred it before I leave the unit.

wayunderpaid · Nov 11, 2007

Hello, I have been an RN for 12 years and I am very passionate about what I do and want to continue in Nursing until I retire.
I work in a hospital on the Orthopedic floor and love the gradual process of patients' transition from post surgical pain to helping them through their upwardly mobile journey to recovery & discharge home or to Rehab.
The one thing that I foresee ruining my career is that I have a h/o
giving meds either late or forgetting them alltogether. The three things that contribute to this the most is: poor time management, easily distracted, and just plain forgetfulness. I have ADD and have struggled with prioritizing my whole life.
I'm in the process of attempting to create a whole new job (still on Ortho) that would utilize my 12 yr. nursing experience, my knack for great customer service, and possibly some administrative duties that would allow for me to : remain in my current setting, full-time hours, and refrain from giving meds. (for pt.'s safety sake) Any advice????

Does your unit have an educator?? This sounds like the perfect gig for you. If the unit cannot afford to have an educator full time, you can do that part time and do things like discharge planning/care coordinator/performance improvement (though organizational skills are still needed, med adm./immediate patient safety is not at risk).

Most of all, I think that it is commendable that you are able to introspectively look at yourself and realize this as a shortcoming. Most people do forget to give meds at one time or other, you have to look at how often it happens and if you really are concern about risking someones health because of it.

I hope you find the perfect job!, it is out there!

Wayunderpaid

meatloaf RN · Nov 12, 2007

Thank you for your good advice. I do have a template/coversheet for my clipboard that I carry that is intended to organize my day/assessments/meds - the problem is that after the first, AM assessment, I become distracted with "tasks" of looking up labs, finding out what needs to be done for pts' discharges, taking off new MD orders, etc... and rarely refer back to my med "due times"! Having ADD is not easy, I tell ya.

After 12 years, I have finally come to the conclusion that overcoming my "deficiencies" instead of utilizing my "natural talents" is useless and self defeating, so I purchased a book called "Strengths Finder 2.0" by Tom Rath that gave me an access code to taking a 30 min. assessment online to help me determine my top 5 strong areas. Very insightful, but what I'll actually end up doing with this info is still up in the air....

Thanks again for your insight.