Maintain pressure on reforms to protect NHS
patrick evans
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Comments (2)
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Comment on: Poor observation skills are risking patients' lives
It is truly shocking to read about the death of Ms Rock's father. It does underline the messages in this forum that nurses need to be involved with patients and their family. Nurses need the experience to put together all their observations. And nurses need to be able to advocate for patients and family. This is a massive undertaking. How far do trusts support all staff to operate consistently at this level? This is not an argument about the type of equipment, or individuals; it is about the whole context of care from top management to the lowest grade worker. From clinical practice to education.Sadly there are numerous accounts where one or other group of staff have turned a blind eye to the difficulties and issues of others in the care environment. A timely reminder of how important nursing is and a call to pay attention to detail.
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Comment on: Poor observation skills are risking patients' lives
If we go back to what Benner was saying about beginner nurses we should not be surprised about their lack of ability to fit all the pieces together. Until staff spend years looking at what Benner called the meaningful recurring patterns they just don't see what it all means. Are MEWS and variations now replacing this level of experience? Context is alo important. I wonder how far a deteriorating patient stands out against a ward full of ill people. In any case this issue is not just about observations it is about the whole context and management of nursing and other care in the NHS. Thank goodness there are fora for exploring these issues
