When the tables are turned (nurse on the receiving end of care, acted like a fool)

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In the years I've been a nurse I've never taken the Hepatitis B vaccine, but the NP program I am in requires it now with no if's and's or but's. They gave me the shot at work today and I acted like a total idiot. I don't know how many IM injections I've given in my career as a registered nurse, but I've given MANY. However, when the needle was pointed at me today I freaked out. The DON drew up the injection and after chasing me around the office for several minutes another nurse finally came in and grabbed my other arm and tried to hold me still. By the time it was over I was drenched in sweat and my heart was racing. Looking back, it was kind of funny because while all this was going on a jazz band was in the activity room playing, "It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas."

I'm so ashamed and embarrassed. I would like to know I'm not the only one who freaks out when a needle comes at them.

Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, ED.

Oh my, what a funny mental image you've painted. I hope you're not insulted that I found your post humorous! If so, my apologies.

I really don't mind poking other people with needles, but I don't enjoy being poked. I think that's pretty common.

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I don't think you have panic attacks.

Running about the room is maybe a bit on the extreme side, however I assume your telling of the story is a bit more entertaining than the actual situation ;)

Maybe next time find a pretty picture to look at on the wall and take a nice deep breath :)

Tait

This is what is embarrassing, I did hop and dance around. I totally trust this DON and his abilities but I couldn't stand the thought of needle slicing through my muscle. The nurse who held me keeps saying she's never seen anything like that, except with her 4 yr old. There was a patient and visitor watching through the door, too.

I have been prescribed medication for panic attacks. Sometimes, I can't catch my breath. I guess I do have a phobia of needles. I'm still torn up about it.

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Are you serious? Your DON chased you while another staff member grabbed you? That's jacked up! If that's not battery, I don't know what is...

I surprised that you can't exempt out of the series.

It was totally consentual. I just couldn't help it.

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Specializes in Community, OB, Nursery.

I think people somehow have this image of how a nurse is 'supposed' to act at all times, including when they are the patient. You are a human being, and you had a human reaction. I wouldn't worry about it.

I work in OB; have had both doctors and nurses as patients. And for the record, they don't act like doctors and nurses either in labor or postpartum. They act like people who are hurting and scared - and they are entitled to that.

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I have been shot before with an AK 47, had sharpnel in my ankle and have had big gaping cuts in my legs before and watched them bleed.. I absolutely hate needles, going into me that is. I cannot watch myself get stuck. Don't feel bad

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Specializes in ED, ICU, PSYCH, PP, CEN.

I love to start IVs, I think it is quite a talent. And I'm not really that good at it, but I am always improving.

I just can't stand to have it done to me. Can't stand to have my blood drawn either. Passed out cold on 2 blood donation attempts. I become a whimpering, scared crying child. I don't know why I am like this but I am. So you are not alone.

Shots don't bother me much

I am surprised they chased you though. It really is battery.

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Specializes in Behavioral Health, Show Biz.

:o[color=deepskyblue]i hate needles!

hey, you, we, are all human.

that's how it goes---

for nurses, doctors, etc. :eek:

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Specializes in Med/Surg.
I suspect you really did not want that injection. You feel really conflicted becaise you have to get as a term of employment. Your subconscious mind was reacting to what it precieved as a threat.

No I don't think the subconscius mind was reacting. She doesn't like needles and she acted like a human being who is scared of needles. I think it's good when, we as nurses, occasionally have to be on the other end of the needle so that we can better understand and be compassionate towards our patients.

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

I still cry like a little kid after injections. It is no longer the hysterics but the silent, red faced, clammy all over tears. :imbar

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Specializes in LTC.

I hate needles as well and yes I too act like an idiot. My heart races , I squirm , and almost come to tears. I was a complete nut when I gave blood, especially when I knew it was a 16 guage.

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

After 3 major surgeries, a little pinch with the needle is nothing to me

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Specializes in Critical Care, Operating Room.

I just got my H1N1 vaccine at work Saturday and I was fine with it but my charge nurse (who was also getting the vaccine) completely freaked out and was screeching! When it was all said and done we both bursted out laughing but she told me she can't stand needles unless she is pointing one at someone else LOL

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