Re: working in the ER

["Pam Humphrey" <ph911rn@cableone.net>]

Our program just completed a "re-organization" of assignments.  Since 1983
the second assigned RN was actually scheduled in the ER.  When we had a
flight, that RN left the ER.  Often times this left the ER short.  We tried
various methods of coverage when the flight nurse left from a back up call
list, pulling from other areas, supervisors covering, etc.  Because our ER
volume and acuity has grown, this scheduling no longer was acceptable for
continuity of patient care.  Not to mention the ER staff being placed in a
shortage situation.  The best move our program made was to have our own
staff for transport.  We still assist in the ER and other areas of the
hospital.  We respond to all codes, start IV's, attend committee meetings,
assist in Triage, etc.  We are also required to complete on-going clinical
hours in the critical care areas; ICU, PICU, NICU, OR, ED, etc as part of
our annual proof of competency.  This has been a positive move for our
program.  The ED nurses are happier and the flight team is happier and yes,
we all get along and try to make each experience pleasant.  In conclusion, I
would say assist where and when you can, but remember your assignment and
responsibility is to respond for transport.  Therefore, when assisting let
other know your limitations such as not assuming care of a patient
undergoing conscious sedation or primary nurse for a code patient.  By the
way, if we do assist in the ER and they would have had to call someone else
in, we charge our time to the ER.  I am happy to share more.  Good Luck!

Pam Humphrey, RN
Chief Flight Nurse
Bannock Life Flight
----- Original Message -----
From: <PATCHRN@aol.com>
To: <flightmed@flightweb.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 08, 2001 10:32 PM
Subject: working in the ER


> Our program is trying to place us in the ER when we are not flying. Nurses
> and medics.  How do some of your programs do this?  Do you take primary
> assignments? If so what do you have to do to leave when you have a flight?
> Who do you report off to?
> Do you punch in to the ER and then out to your flight program when you
have a
> flight?
> Do you feel you get to use your skills in the ER or are you just an extra
set
> of hands?
> Is there animosity between flight people and ER staff when you have to
leave
> them when they are busy?
>
> _______________________________________________
> Flightmed mailing list


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