clarification

I just wanted to follow up my last blog with some clarification about what I wrote.  Yes, I wanted her fired!  And, no, I don't feel sorry for her.  I feel sorry for ANYBODY that is stupid enuf to make blatant mistakes that are so bad that they are not only fired, but escorted out of the building.  And, I have no idea exactly what this nurse did, other than pre-charting, but it was obviously very bad, enuf so that she was indeed fired today, but not escorted out.  She was made to leave immediately, tho, which I found to be quite satisfying.  I now know more of the story.

In nursing, at least every place I've ever worked, when you screw up, you are given a few chances.  First, you get a verbal warning with counselling.  Then, you get a written warning.  Then, you may be sent home without pay for whatever length of time is the policy.  Then they may fire you.  I was able to find out that all of this was done, to the letter, and according to hospital policy.  I guess what I objected to was skipping steps and just firing her, but I now know that she has endangered the lives of patients, no steps were skipped, and she is gone.  I am sorry if some of you got the impression that I was willing to give her more chances, or even allow her to finally kill someone.  Not at all!  But, privacy is a big thing, and we just didn't know how bad it was.  I actually watched as she was dragged to the director's office, and then watched as she got her stuff and left.  Stunned?  A little.  Glad she's gone?  YES!!!!

So, this experience has been an eye opener for every single nurse that works in my clinic.  Some are scared.  Some feel like big brother is watching.  Some are even confident enough to know they are safe.  I would be one of those.  I don't cut corners, pre-chart, or in any way endanger the lives of my patients.  I am conscientious, double and triple check everything I do, and make very few mistakes.  Note that I did not say I never make a mistake, cuz I am human, and we DO make mistakes.  But, I try hard and I am appreciated for what I do.  That's all.