Venting

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I work on a Med-Surg. I been working there for about 3 months now. On our unit we operate under a clinical transformation model, meaning an RN is paired with an LPN. We are assigned 7 patients and there aren't any aides on the unit. I'm just a bit frustrated at the fact that sometimes we are assigned 4 total care patients with no additional help. Also some of the charge nurses aren't helpful. Instead they quickly assign a new patient to a room that isnt even clean yet and most of the time we aren't even aware of the new patient assignment. I took this job to get a experience as a new grad but this is definely not where I want to be.

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Specializes in Trauma Surgical ICU.

Two of you for 7 pts.. That's pretty good. When I was on the floor, I had 7 pts and no LPN and my tech had my 7pts plus 5 more. I know some days are more stressful than others and yes, some charge nurses are better than others but your ratio is pretty good for a med-surg unit.

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Specializes in Certified Med/Surg tele, and other stuff.

Your charge needs to have better communication with you.

Secondly, a ratio of 2/7 isn't bad, especially if the LPN can do a lot to help.

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I have been on both sides of the fence in this model. This is an opportunity that few nurses can enjoy.

What, exactly does the Med-Surg population encompass?

The main issue here is the division of patient care between you and your co worker. What does that entail?

The charge nurse should be available for any emergent situation that may arise.

The charge nurse is there for administrative purposes. Simply ,ask for communication regarding new admissions.

Two nurses for seven patients is a beautiful thing. I couldn't ask for more.

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I have had up to 8 patients myself. Our unit has 2 care partners at night usually dividing 32 patients between them. I am sorry but welcome to reality and you seemingly have it better than most. I know this will not sound nice but "Suck it up Buttercup" do your time and then find what you would like to do. I hate to be the bearer of bad news but floor nursing in general is not a cake walk.

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