By: Blake Lynch, “Nurse Blake”
I’m that annoying nurse who sometimes forgets essential supplies when entering an isolation room.
Ok, who am I kidding? I forget these items all the time.
Why do I suddenly have Adele’s “Hello” stuck in my head? Oh, because “I must have called (my coworkers) a thousand times.” Pretty sure they’ve started to pretend they don’t hear me!
During my last shift I must have gowned-up over 100 times (or, at least it felt that way!) Seriously, most of my shifts are spent in isolation rooms – a lot of patients are on contact precautions nowadays.
Let’s be real, I dread having to gown-up then undress and gown-up again just to grab a darn alcohol swap. Why do I ALWAYS forget those? Ugh.
In 2018 I have set the resolution to be better prepared for the room of no return. Here’s my checklist of items I commonly forget – don’t be like me, just bring these items in the room with you:
1. Stethoscope
I can’t be the ONLY one who forgets the most essential nursing tool. Or, am I? In my opinion, disposable stethoscopes are the best. I just wonder why I never notice them in the isolation room until after I request one from my awesome coworker. OOPS!
2. Flushes
I mean, always! Do I even have to explain?
3. NS Bag
It never fails that the time I don’t bring in an NS bag, the infusion alarm will start beeping. Of course!
4. Wipes and Bed Sheet
CODE BROWN! CODE BROWN! Whenever this happens, there’s usually only 1 scragly wipe left in the entire room when I need like 10 packs.
5. Alcohol Swabs
This is like leaving disposable grocery bags at your house and realizing it when you’re checking out at Whole Foods. ALWAYS!
Did I mention how much I love my awesome co-workers who come to the rescue every time? Love you, guys. You’re the best!