AmazingGracie
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It is a better world when we support each other. And it can be done. Sounds like management needs to de-witch some nurses. I'm sure they know who they are.
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The thing that has taught me more is the fact that I'm willing to ask questions about what I do not know. There is no shame in not knowing. Anyone that thinks they know everything is dangerous. Just remember to ask what you are not sure about. Read up on meds, dz. processes, lab values, etc. that are pertinent to a particular situation. Nursing is often a collaborative process among an interdisciplinary team. Utilize your peer/colleages. This promotes a win/win scenario for all participants. Nursing, like medicine is a "practice". I continue to learn something everyday after 37 years of practice. I've also seen many changes during these years. Medicine is not static. Subscribe to the philosophy, question everything.
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Traditionally nurses are female. And females are by nautre submissive. Traditionally doctors are male. And males by nature are dominating. We are genetically predisopsed to these personality traits. The nurse/doctor relationship is not only influenced by nature, but by enculturation. I've practiced many years and have noticed nurses in many cases don't even realize they are being disrespected. Just understand, if you do go into nursing that you will have the experience of being demeaned by a doctor at one point or another. It will then be your responsibility to assert your right to be respected. Remember what Eleanor Roosevelt said, "No one can do anything to you that you don't allow. Indeed, these are valuable words. In the scenario you describe, I would have continued to draw the lab work ignoring Dr. #2. After completing the draw, I would have spoken to him away from you(the patient). I would then clearly state to the good doctor that I had an order to do the draw from Dr. #1. If he has an issue, discuss it with that Dr. I would then tell him, he is never to speak to me like that in the future. And experience has shown me after candid discussions with MD's, I am treated with greater dignity. If nurses are treated this way, we can only blame ourselves. I can tell you, I do not get this type of treatment from any doctor, or for that matter antoher nurse. Hope this will help you. Good luck in your future!
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I am strongly against family visits in the PACU caring for adult patients. If we are in a holding situation(which happens with alarming frequency), we will accomodate brief visits based on unit dynamics. If you have even one patient with issues(eg., airway, pain, emergence delirium), all bets are off. Staff focus needs to be on patient care, not family during this delicate time. Communication is carried out via a unit clerk and volunteer staff. It works well and facilitates the best patient care for a PACU. I also consider family visits in a PACU a HIPPA violation. As a patient myself at one point, I did not appreciate having my wound checks done with family in the unit. Even though curtains were pulled, a family member thought it would be ok to pull the curtain to speak with the nurse. The general public has a poor filtering system these days. What's next, visits in the OR?
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This practice is incensing! The practice of protocols is also imposed on physicians. We are all in the same boat. Never let a protocol interfere with logic, critical thinking or a "good gut instinct".
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I wish I could offer a simple solution for pain control for all people, however it is not a simple issue. Each patient must be evaluated individually. Obtaining a good history is key. Some people are "seeking", while others are in need of pain control. And, I will remind all practioners that pain is the 5th vital sign. Uncontrolled pain can delay healing and increase pontential for infection. And even "seekers" have legitimate pain control issues. You are a short term solution for most. I would suggest referral to primary care resources, pain clinics, etc. for long term solutions. As your experience increases, your radar will improve on how to deal with patient's pain related issues. My opinion is, we do tend on under medicate.