missfreda

Yes, I would advise having your OWN professional insurance. I have 2 different policies to my protection. It covers a lot (board complaints, on the job injuries from combative patients, etc) It is well worth it. Employers need only show that you violated some policy or procedure, founded or unfounded allegations. They WILL NOT PROTECT YOU. False allegations by co-workers is rampart and can up-end your career. I learned that some nurses will lie, set you, and sometimes the managers or administration will be a part of it. Know your rights and scope of practice. Fortunately, I had the financial means to get a lawyer, the corporation sold and we are in court now because I sued em for wrongful termination along with a slew of other issues that were putting patients and staff at risk. The real culprit was diverting meds while under board stipulations, continued to work until she got caught. She should not have been working with the multiple verbal and written complaints against her. Now, the corporation has to deal with State investigations involving deaths, missing meds, etc. Get your own insurance.... now!

Some very good pointers there. In reference to being a LNHA, the one I had fired me when she was not my IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR and was behind the efforts to damage my career. She was used to carry out the wrongful action of termination. Several lawyers pointed that out. Only your IMMEDIATE supervisor, accompanied by H.R. should handle another nurse, CNA or employees under the Director of Nursing. Because they did not follow the "chain-of-command", the LNHA is on the hook as a defendant. Know your rights as an employee, and know the companies policies/procedure. Because most often, those who are positions that should know, DONT KNOW the law or their scope of job description. I am hurt emotionally, but it wont change who I am or how I care for my residents or patients (I'm actually a hospital nurse). But, I realize how LTC residents really need good nurses. Be careful about bringing in certain supplies. They may have allergies or adverse reactions to things that can harm them. I encourage my residents to call the STATE if administration wont listen. I am a strong advocate for the elderly and children too. Speak your mind. Dont "go along to get along". RESPECT goes both ways. I LOVE NURSING! However, only the strong survive. That's life!

Too easy to walk away! I had false allegations against me, they reported me to the BON, then tried to get State investigators to "substantiate" their lies, The state did not find any wrongdoing and did not change their report. Make sure the facility follow their policies & procedures. I kept and still keep anything they give me to sign, including the employee handbook. If they don't treat you like they should, sue their butts. This is your license. I had to pay out-of-pocket for a lawyer, but they didn't count on me having $$$ or a determination to see this through. The nurse that started the problem was under board "stipulations", was diverting meds and lied to keep me from reporting her. They fired me and I was the SUPERVISOR. They never got my side of the story, never did that nurse nothing even though I filed a complaint against her with the board. Guess what? Months later, she got CAUGHT! She was under 2 state investigations the whole time, but continued to work at the facility. She was suppose to be suspended until the investigations were complete. Only after I sent the media to question those deaths, and after she was fired they sold the corporation to new owners. Well, i didn't run. Yes, they RETALIATED and has been sued. Trial April 2nd. Cant wait! I got evidence, they have nothing and no one. I am being black-listed, but i have a non-compact state license and love to travel. No one defines my character or determine my destiny in life. No one but me and GOD! Exodus 14:14 is what has carried me this far.

DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT! Get your OWN medical insurance coverage for your license...PLEASE! I have 2 separate coverages for my licenses as RN/LVN. Respond to any complaints in writing. Get copies of ALL complaints against you. Speak to your Human Resource Director and document EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY who has something to say. Make your own feelings known as far as defamation, harassment, discrimination, hostile work environment, etc. Watch your back and watch your co-workers. Monitor your residents carefully! Watch your charting and your PAYSTUBS! if the facility don't give you paystubs, request them along with print offs of your TIMESHEET. I sued a facility and have a trial date April 2, 2018. I'm suing the whole CORPORATION which abruptly sold 14 facilities after multiple deaths, a suspected impaired nurse who started this whole mess... THEY LIED, ALTERED MEDICAL RECORDS, TIMESHEETS, STATEMENTS AGAINST ME, AND A LOT MORE. Their worst nightmare is becoming a REALITY! This saga has been on-going for almost 4 years. I'm in a good place as 2 judges ruled in my favor to proceed to trial. The facility lawyers has stalled, lied, and done everything to stop me. I even fought in court against motions WITHOUT a lawyer for 7 months. I have a lawyer now and he in on track, kicking butt and ready for trial. Don't let them jeopardize your license or up-end your life. You sound like a caring nurse. Wish I could type more info. FIGHT BACK! You can sue individuals in administration too and name them as defendants. FIGHT BACK! Before you move on to something else, If you cant stand up for yourself, you cant stand up for your residents. Be strong! I'm sick of these "for-profit" corporations that abuse employees, hire incompetent managers. Write the STATE, send it under affidavits and certified mail. Contact Consumer Protection Services and get the names of investigators too. So much.... Pray, Fight and do whats right. Good Luck!

I got my LVN at 45 years old and got my RN 9 months before I turned 50. My goal was to be an RN by 50 and I beat that goal by taking the accelerated classes. You can do it! I waited until my children were grown and on their own (each of 3 were out at 18...military) It wont be difficult, raising kids is harder, in my opinion. You did that...you can do anything. Good luck to ya!

A "calling" is more of a strong inner desire to a specific cause or need. It is not necessarily "religious". A commitment to nursing, for the right reasons, may be your place or "calling" in the workforce. For others it may be "volunteering " having the same desire or need to help people or animals. I think its all about whats in a persons heart. Some are "compelled" to do things, some positive some negative...

Well said!! I agree that CNA/Tech are underappreciated at times. I am an RN and was treated in the same manner when i was in the ER or ICU as a Tech. I was made to feel "beneath" the higher educated nurses. And was actually told that CNA's were uneducated. I was offended but motivated to become an LVN and 5 years later an RN! However, I made a personal vow to remember how I was treated, and to not treat the CNA/Tech or anyone that way. I regularly verbalize my appreciation for their help. And I do as much as I can to not burden them with tasks I can do. Nothing and no one is "beneath" me. I love nursing and the patients I provide care for. They are my purpose for working. But, I also respect my co-workers and the work they do. And, just for good measure...not every nurse is looking up meds on their phones! Especially, when they texting, face-booking and checking e-mails, while sitting behind the desk on the computer...So, I do know and understand what the paramedic is saying. There are known "floor" nurses and "desk" nurses who want the so-called "walkie-talkie" patients that were pre- arranged by the previous shift. Floor nurses are on their feet running all day and barely have time for a break. least of all lunch. "Desk" nurses are last to arrive to work, but first to leave. So, perhaps one should look at themselves and determine which type of nurse the paramedic may be dealing with! Hang in there Paramedic !

I understand your frustrations and feel the same at times. However, I have learned that self-preservation is the first rule of survival. Perhaps a temporary change from nursing may be better for you. I do travel nursing periodically because of the stress nursing can bring. Invest in personal insurance coverage for your license. It will cover any injury related to your work. Personally, I would file criminal charges against any person, (patient or family member) and seek civil damages as well, if an assault or abuse occurs. Hopefully, things will get better. Hang in there.

I'm so happy for you! Best wishes for a successful career!

You got this! I answered 230 questions and was so depressed thinking I had failed. Much to my surprise I passed on the first attempt. I did well in school, but almost walked away from the testing center after I got to 220 questions. I answered a few more questions and the test shut off. Wow! I was depressed and worried for NOTHING! Happy endings are the best! Good luck to ya! Let us know the outcome.

Very good advice! I would definitely go to my Higher Power through scripture and prayer, as I too, am a Christian. My second line of defense would be going to an employment attorney... as I have. Holding these ppl accountable for their words/actions will at least put a dent in their activities. When they feel the financial loss attributed to their behaviors, then perhaps they will think b4 they cross the wrong person. And that person will be someone willing to stand up for themselves at all cost! A lot of friends carrying friends over into new jobs at different facilities is the root cause of most workplace bullying/hostility. Non-professional socialization with employees is not the best way to manage a facility. This causes bias and conflict on many levels.

Soliloquy, You are my kind of nurse! Your take on this issue is exactly what I'm talking about. Someone wanting to do what is right and making a positive change. I love it! Finally a voice from someone who cares! That's what the patients need. Someone with character, integrity and a willingness to stand up for em... No one has to run, be a trail blazer or do anything contrary to what is right. That is how you earn respect! They may not like you, but they will respect you. Thanks for at least trying to make a difference. Some times all it takes is ONE. I'm proud of you..

Wonderful words to live by. I believe in standing up for yourself and speaking out. The position I take is "if i cant stand up for myself, how can i stand up for my patients?" We are suppose to be advocates and sometimes others in higher positions will try to shut you down. Don't let em run you off. Most often I find that most are simply incompetent in the position they hold and is fearful that someone who knows more, (especially the law) can be a threat to them. Don't compromise your morals/values, treat ppl like you would like to be treated. Show compassion to others in all that you do. Because what happens to others, could happen to you.

Different folks, same strokes! You cant keep running from job to job every time something makes you uncomfortable. How about standing up for yourself? Every facility will have some unhappy, jealous, envious co-worker who likes drama and workplace politics. Don't engage in those conversations, and learn to enjoy your own company. When you can go to work, do your job and not be looking to "fit in where you can get in" ...things can be tolerable. No one has to be anti-social, but learn by listening, watching and not entertaining gossip. No one is perfect and there is no perfect job. People are human and we all make mistakes, but recognize the fact the we live in an evil world. Pray constantly and do your best.

I just experienced the "angry black woman" stereotype at a LTC facility. Accused of something I did not do and was terminated without the opportunity to give my side of the story. I have been a nurse for 10 years with a clean board of nursing record. I can relate to how ppl will come together as group to achieve a common goal. The old adage is that " if they all saying the same thing it must be true." I fought back after I was falsely accused and reported to the board of nursing. I filed a discrimination claim with EEOC. I reported everything on the facility that I could prove, launched several investigations, contacted the news media, state dept, board of nursing, nurses association, family members and stood my ground. All because they started a LIE! The end result, the facility along with 14 other LTC facilities in the corporation SOLD to new owners. Stand up for yourself and fight back. Enough already with nurses fighting against each other! Im in this profession because I do care about ppl. Stop running and start holding ppl accountable for their actions. Sue them if you have to. But, invest in insurance to protect your license. This is getting RIDICULOUS!

Wow! Thanks to all of you for sharing your experiences as new grads! I am a recent grad as of May 2010. I only worked 6 months, then resigned from a Med-Surg/Oncology floor for lack of team work. I was frustrated and felt I couldn't trust the nurses I worked with. I took a break before returning March 1, 2011 to a newer hospital six miles from home. There I find more mature, caring nurses that don't mind helping me and answering my questions or addressing my concerns. Yes, it's still a bit early being there only 3 weeks. But, I am a good judge of character and I feel comfortable with the staff. I am 50 years old and feel like a "scatterbrain" right about now. Thinking is a bit slower, especially critical thinking. I've invested in critical thinking books and anything that can help me along the way. I have my own report sheet and am doing well with giving reports. I review the chart during report so I want miss reporting orders and other pertinent areas. I review History & Physical on my patients to get a better view of their conditions. I even go in a bit earlier to get organized, even if it's just 15 minutes or so. They don't really want you working off the clock... we can only clock in at 07:45 or 5 minutes before. Whatever it takes.... I'm open to do this to give my patients safe, competent care. I love nursing and know it will take time developing the skills I need. I am respectful to my co-workers and thank them for helping me. I get so overwhelmed at times! But, even a smile can give me the will to not give up! Thanks to all the caring nurses that work for the Christus Healthcare System in San Antonio!

Don't let the situation discourage you from moving forward. I had a similar one when I was in LVN school. I prayed over it and kept going. I started school 5 years later for RN and finished on time and passed the boards on my first attempt. I saw a lot of broken relationships in my class. We pulled together, supported each other and got through the tough times. The best and most important outcome was passing the board. Don't hang on to those feelings and lose your focus. You can get through this and still come out on top ! Best wishes!

Wow! I hope things get better for everyone that's having a hard time with getting hired. I have only had positive results when applying for work. I encourage all of you to keep moving forward. I was an LVN for 5 years... I passed the RN boards 2 days BEFORE I walked the stage for graduation in May 2010. I had a job one month later in a hospital on med-surg unit. I worked six months, resigned via e-mail, took a vacation and started re-applying after New Years. I have had an interview every week and was offered jobs at each (turned down 3) .. These are all hospital jobs ! I had interviews with unit managers and they told me they LIKED me on the spot, immediately pull some nurses from the floor for a peer interview... by the time I got home I had a phone call and an offer. I've been "juggling" offers and actually completed a health screen for one... got another job offer... This job?... a recruiter called, I had a peer interview.. never met the unit manager... and got the job. (this one I really wanted!) I had applied for several positions at this hospital and didn't know which one she was needing me for. It is 6 miles from my home, better nurse:patient ratio, brand new hospital opened in 2009, good pay ! I work agency in between jobs... i keep my LVN license current even though I'm an RN now. I am hoping to do travel nursing in the next couple of years after getting more RN experience.. I have my associates not BSN. With so many nurses having a difficult time finding work... i feel blessed and thank God everyday. I would encourage you all to keep trying, I posted resumes on hospital webs, craigslist, newspapers, careerbuilder, hot jobs, monster etc. when I started my job search. They interview me.... I interview them.. i ask them questions about nurse teamwork, how long they had their jobs, turnover rates, how long they stay over after end of shift and whatever else i can think of. I wanna make sure I want to work with them too. I have had much success and wish you all the best. Don't give up! I was a new grad once too! ( I'm still getting calls for jobs.. just checked messages and found another one who saw my resume) God Bless yall !

I have had similar experiences with nurses deliberately "holding out" to take report from me last. I got fed up with their obvious tactics and decided to take advantage of 'verbally recording " my reports as allowed by the facility. I always go in to work a bit early to get organized and to allow the night shift nurses an opportunity to get off in a timely manner. However, I wasn't extended the same consideration when my shift ended. They would come to me last to take report even though I had told them I was ready after they clocked in, they would slip away to ALL the others and come to me last. Well, I told them when they came in that I had recorded my reports and would be covering the floor while they listened to these reports. But also let them know that I would be clocking out and leaving at 7:15 p.m. If they played around, or came in late.... that was their problem. I let the night shift supervisor know that I was leaving and documented this before I left. I don't entertain "mess, gossip, or conflicts" I am professional about my job duties and don't tolerate nurses that aren't. I spend a lot of time with my patients and their care is my priority. What is the message being sent when taking report from a particular nurse LAST ? if any one can tell me why this is going on... I would like to know. I thought it was just to cause me to leave later ??

You are the type of nurse I would love to work around. You are absolutely right about going to HR with your complaint. I act the same in my workplace, I find that there is too much drama and gossip with most nurses. They have their cliques just like you said. I don't like to work under those conditions, especially if I know they don't care about me. I resigned from my job recently due to the fact that I felt I could not trust the ones I worked with. The charge nurse would assign me the patients she or her "friends" did not want to care for. No teamwork at all. I was a strong nurse and they used it to their advantage, I would get most of the last minute admissions, so they could leave on time. I got fed up and ask the unit manager to not schedule me with one particular charge nurse. I wrote this up and explained my reasons behind the request. About two weeks later this nurse implicated me in a situation that had nothing to do with me in the care of a particular patient whose care was being investigated by the unit manager due to family complaints. I had never had anything other than positive comments about my patient care. But, she tried to get me involved in her "mess" because she was charge nurse when a situation occurred. I had been off the entire time this patient was in the hospital. I had her for one hour before my shift ended on her initial admission. I did not appreciate the way the situation was handled.... so I resigned! I have not worked in 2 months (by choice) I have had several job offers since then, and have accepted one ( I haven't started yet) but I have another interview next week that I will take instead if offered. It is closer to my home. Please note that you will find similar conditions almost anywhere you go. Don't change your way of doing things. The stress is not worth it. Just do your job, keep a journal if need be and take care of yourself. I am getting liability insurance that covers any concerns in dealing with the board of nursing, peer review complaints and anything that causes me the need to protect my license. i don't like to work with people I can't trust. Good Luck !

Very well said! We need more of your kind of nursing views!

Hi Everyone! To: Nurse Frustrated I am new to this forum and would like to respond to starting rehab nursing. I am a new RN as of 7 months ago (June, 2010) and have worked Med-Surg. OMG! You have expressed all of my thoughts, feelings, and experiences to the max! Exact picture... floated nurses proclaiming 'never to come back'.... , lack of team work.... WOW! That's why I resigned! Disorganized, CRAZY unit! I feel much better after reading your experience. I thought I was just expecting too much and making things difficult for others by putting pressure on my peers to help out. It seemed as if I was a disruption to the "norm"... they didn't seem to appreciate someone coming in and getting things done. I just got tired of pulling the whole load. Sometimes it doesn't benefit you to be a "strong nurse".. you can get "dumped on"... after that experience, I considered leaving nursing as well. I have an interview on tomorrow for rehab nursing. I hope it's better than what I left in med-surg.!