RN Shift Report

To my dear, discerning readers: Since it's the season to roll out new shows on TV, I've decided to "roll out" a new column on my blog. Along with "The News From Whispering Pines" and "Sweet, Simple Things", "RN Shift Report" will be added to my blog as an occasional column. Since my career takes up the majority of the hours in my day, I've decided to share some of the joys and sorrows, frustrations and victories that I experience as an oncology nurse. It will be short and concise. No patient information will ever be given, except in generalities. With that introduction, I'll move into the Season Premiere!

Shift Report, 10/24/2010 "A Voice"

Acting as a patient advocate is one of my favorite roles as a nurse. The current medical system can resemble an assembly line. Patients get passed from one doctor to another. They get overwhelmed with new information from each caregiver they encounter. Often times they hear and retain just a portion of what is said to them. They can feel intimidated and not free to ask questions. They don't think they have options. I speak for a patient if I get the sense they don't understand all that their treatment plan entails. I do this with care because speaking up for patients can be a slippery slope to navigate. I don't want to bring distrust and confusion into the doctor/patient relationship , but I do want to empower people to be a partner in their care. I want them to know they have a right to be treated in ways that match the values and goals they have for their life.