Quality of care is it possible

Kabin · Feb 6, 2011

Yep, I have to agree with you but I'd guess it's been that way for some time. I recall my brief experience in the hospital to be one of toggling priorities. When things were going well corners were cut to emphasize cost savings - unrealistic acuities, fast pt discharges for OR/ER pts, quick or little pt education, no CNA support, etc. When issues arose it was full concern and image for quality of care - everything was more realistic, managers more supportive, extra help was available, docs were more interested, etc. Of course the latter scenario negatively affected other pts/nurses so quality of care still suffered.

I have to commend you for being able to put up with that environment! But these days it's difficult to complain too much as it's just good to be among the employed. :)

justanimals · Feb 6, 2011

Thanks for the words of encouragement. I love the patients and families and derive my satisfaction from them. But you have to be very careful how who to and how you speak your mind. Things can really back fire on you. I think if nurses were more supportive of each other it would help. I do understand that many of them are the only financial support for their families and fear administration. But, unfortunately, the patient ends up suffering. What field are you working in now?

Kabin · Feb 7, 2011

I'm doing hospice in the field. It's great, lots of autonomy, much of my schedule is flexible and within my control.

FranEMTnurse, CNA, LPN, EMT-I · Feb 9, 2011

I have been a nurse for a about seven years, it was my second career. I have worked in most all areas of the hospital now and even did a stint as assistant director. But, I just can't help but feel frustrated. I work in a very busy unit, everyone works hard for the most part. But, I continue to find that on most days I am not able to give quality of care to my patients. I am so busy trying to initial, sign and fill out paperwork for JCAHO or some other governing board. Don't get me wrong because I believe in care using evidence based practice. But there are times I struggle just to keep my patients safe. I was reviewing the AZ State Board rules/regulations. How many times a day is our license being placed at risk. Anyone else have the same problems?

And to think I once thought when computer charting was introduced, there would be less paperwork?

Meg, RN · Feb 9, 2011

OP- Do we work in the same place? No really, though if you hadn't said AZ...I feel the exact same on most days. I had to switch to nights because my floor is so hectic, it's terrible trying to get a routine down pat. With patient's IV pumps beeping, getting called out of patient's rooms to talk to the docs, passing out meds, checking off orders,...etc. It can be very frustrating not getting to spend the time I would like to with each patient and their family. But I pray for more patience every day, and really treasure the moments I DO get to hold someone's hand, and give them the TLC they deserve. OP, your patients are lucky to have a nurse as caring as you. :w00t:

justanimals · Feb 17, 2011

Sorry it took me so long to respond. It really does sound like we work in the same hospital. I too worked hospice for a while and enjoyed it. I worry about leaving the hospital for too long because my skills really suffer that I need there. But the autonomy was wonderful in hospice.