Staffing for the Good of the Patient

[JEHORAPHA]

The last two jobs I had I was assigned to from 56 to 67 patients with various acuities. When I met with the nursing administration I was told Alabama does not have a law as to how many patients an LPN can be assigned to and therefore the facilities were within the legal guidelines of the law. Unfortunately, I resigned stating I did not feel comfortable taking keys for that many residents and patients in a long term, step down, rehab setting. Any ideas about how to change this law?:redbeathe

[semiller36545]

Don't I wish !

[hdagnan]

The LTC facility I recently resigned from was 102 beds. During day and evening shifts, there were four LPN's. At night (when all the crazy stuff happens) there were only two, one on each floor. It was very stressful. As soon as you finish one med pass, you were beginning your next. You barely have time to chart, you never get a lunch, and if a resident crashes, something may not get done!

[JEHORAPHA]

:yeah:Good Deal. You no longer work there. If anything goes wrong administration and the law will ask why did you accept what you felt you were not able to handle. The downside is, there are nurses who are willing to accept such risks. Maybe Alabama Board of Nursing will have an answer.

Thanks