Hello all, I was just wondering how you all are allowed to spend your "down time" on your shift?
Our unit practices "clustered care" so if your shift/assignment is going well you may not touch an infant for 3-5 hours or more depending on their needs. So we are very fortunate to be in a type of nursing that you sometimes have quiet nights where you sit around for a few hours.
Our hospital recently cracked down on using your cell phone, ipad, e-reader, anything electronic not used directly for the job except in breakrooms. This was due to a nurse using her phone too much directly in front of parents and them complaining. Now, we just got an email saying we can't have books or magazines either regardless of if a parent is in the area.
I understand the hospital's stance with appearance and professionalism, but I feel upset about books being taken away. Our pods (3-4 beds) are kept dark most of the night except for a small reading lamp (I work night shift) and we stay in the room at our bedsides at all times except for small breaks/lunch. We don't get to walk away or go to the fishbowl like some adult units. A good book sometimes got me through one of those "quiet" nights!
