Trude

Hi everyone, so I am a nursing student. I have a pre-grad placement in a very busy medical unit. Long story short, last night I was pouring meds for one of my patients... and I went to grab another med cup and all of a sudden all of the meds spill on the floor (including 3 narcotics!) I picked them up instantly and put them back in the pill cup because I was going to waste them with another nurse (since there were narcotics in there). I then got distracted by another nurse who needed help so I put the medications away in the medcart and locked them up. Soon after I helped out the nurse, I went back to the med cart, got the meds and medication record for the patient and went to administer them to the patient. As the patient was taking the meds I remembered that they fell on the floor!! I couldn't believe I forgot to waste them with another nurse! I was stunned at the time and then embarrassed. I left the room without telling the patient. I did tell a nurse on the floor and she said it's not a big deal but next time waste them immediately. I feel absolutely terrible cause I am always so good with infection control, being accountable, giving my patients excellent care and being a very diligent student nurse. I know I was super busy on the unit but like I said, I am always so careful with things I can't believe I forgot to waste them. I feel that I need to get this off my chest and maybe looking for some support that I am not an awful student nurse for making this mistake? Should I have told the patient? Charge nurse? Should I tell my school tutor? I have been reflecting a lot on this incident and hence why I am writing this now. Anyways, thank you for anyone who responds. I appreciate any support!!