Cameron Johnston

I worked in hospital & psychiatry for seven years and our number one drugs for use in sedation was Ativan (lorazapam). I am also surprised that they would use haloperidol for sedation for intubation! Although it's classified as a sedative, it is also classified as a hypnotic and even in psychiatry it is used less often today due to newer, less-harmful antispychotics (although most still can cause extra-pyrami- dal sx). In my experiences, haldol can cause these extrapyramidal sx. (sometimes for life), benzodiazapines such as lorazapam and the others you mentioned don't. Also, I have seen benzo's to be much more sedating than haldol. This is why it is so perplexing that one would use it for what you describe. Of course, I'm not an M.D. and they may have some cryptic reason that is not recognized in mainstream? Probably the use of Haldol one-time would signifi- cantly reduce the chances of EPS, but man that is wierd. I am the type that would politely and uninsultingly inquire with the docs to see why they prefer it. Please let us know...

I have been a hospital nurse for seven years and recently took a weekend charge position for a long-term/skilled facility. I have 47 patients, and 3, sometimes 2 CNA's and a Med-Tech for four of the twelve hour night shift. I am apalled at this situation. If one issue of great concern occurs with one patient, my whole night and routine is rocked! The main concern is for these folks' safety and our responibility to provide quality and digni- fied care. I am researching the legis- lative and regulatory bodies in my state, however would appreciate any feedback from others in this situation. It is truly sad when we really think of those who suffer the most....not us over-stressed nurses, but those who are supposed to be recieving the care that their facility markets as being of high quality. These folks pay $3000-$5000 dollars a month for their well-being. Little staff and scarce supplies only reinforce us as to where the money is going. There have been nights when I haven't even been able to see all of my residents in one shift. I can stop here as everyone has heard the story. Appreciate your feedbacks and experiences.