I always let my pt know the scedule of meds and what is available prn when i give the evening meds. that way there is no surprise and they realize that we are there even at night. some elderly forget this and do not call when they may need assist.
this also helps to note if pt is going to refuse a treatment in the middle of the night. . i.e a breathing treatment or something that is really mundane that can wait. I even request from pharmacy to adj meds (if can) so pt's with lots of scheduled meds overnight are not woken sometimes every hour.
This is dangerous territory. I know of instances where the nurse has gone ahead and done something similar (ie do something expecting the Dr. to sign it off later) and the Dr. refuses to back her up. This really could end up in court in extreme cases.
We always call the family before doing this, so they know about it. We'd like to have family come up and be with the patient if we're thinking about restraining them. We also start out with a posey vest, and if that doesn't work, we'll put restraints on.
But you're right, and I appreciate your comment on the matter.
StrwbryblndRN
658 Posts
In regards to question #7
I always let my pt know the scedule of meds and what is available prn when i give the evening meds. that way there is no surprise and they realize that we are there even at night. some elderly forget this and do not call when they may need assist.
this also helps to note if pt is going to refuse a treatment in the middle of the night. . i.e a breathing treatment or something that is really mundane that can wait. I even request from pharmacy to adj meds (if can) so pt's with lots of scheduled meds overnight are not woken sometimes every hour.