Doctors Unveil Hidden Truths of the Medical Field
The medical field often holds hidden truths, particularly in patient care. A critical care nurse from California shared her experience while working in a busy cardiac unit. Her account sheds light on the challenges nurses face and the importance of thorough documentation.
The Incident in the Cardiac Unit
During her shift, the nurse was called in to take over a patient as his original RN went on a lunch break. The patient’s wife expressed concern. She stated that her husband had previously complained about a pain in his leg. This occurred while he was being positioned for a procedure. The wife felt that the initial nurse had ignored her husband’s discomfort.
Assessing the Situation
Upon arrival, the nurse examined the patient’s leg as instructed by the wife. She found no visible signs of injury, such as redness or swelling. The procedure proceeded without incident, and the nurse brought the patient back to his room afterward.
Documentation is Key
After the procedure, the nurse meticulously documented her observations. She entered a progress note for the attending doctor and updated the skin flow sheet, noting the patient’s complaint. Additionally, she included a Polaroid photograph of the leg, complete with a measuring tape for reference.
Reporting the Incident
At the end of her shift, she briefed the incoming team about the situation and reported it to her supervisor. Some months later, she was summoned to meet a representative from the State Board of Registered Nursing (BRN). The meeting centered around the patient’s leg.
- The nurse requested her union representative to attend the meeting.
- She presented her detailed charting, which included her notes and the photograph.
- It turned out that no other staff members had documented anything regarding the patient during his stay.
The Aftermath
The BRN representative initially attempted to suggest that the nurse had neglected her duties. However, after reviewing the comprehensive documentation, the investigator recognized the nurse’s diligence. Surprisingly, the representative even offered her a position with the BRN as an investigator.
The nurse declined the offer, humorously noting that the State could not afford her. This experience highlights the significance of proper documentation and patient advocacy in the medical profession.
Such stories underscore the hidden truths of the medical field. Nurses play a critical role in ensuring patient safety and care, often navigating complex situations with professionalism and diligence.
