“Herr Doktor” – there are actually still people who call me that…. – “please prescribe this in writing!” That’s what they’ll soon be saying in every retirement and nursing home. “Please visualize here…!” “No, the prescription with the note DS 2 x 1 per day is not enough, you also have to fax the prescription…”
Do these statements sound familiar? Do you write all prescriptions neatly on a prescription sheet, which is then typed into the electronic nursing documentation by the most qualified nurse?
It is hard to believe how distrust between nurses and us physicians is systematically cultivated. The fact that prescriptions must be recorded in writing in an intensive care unit makes sense and is probably not questioned by anyone. But it is troublesome, even shameful, that every ordinance in the home, no matter how trivial, must be in writing. The fact that we physicians are systematically accused of distancing ourselves from our verbal instructions and blaming possible treatment errors on the nurses bothers me. I trust the caregivers, so I visor the Kardex sheets blank. I am aware that this could be abused one day. To date, no such case has ever occurred. I cannot imagine a fruitful collaboration with nurses without mutual trust. Trust between patient, doctor and nurses is a prerequisite for good treatment and care. The systematic mistrust imposed from “above” poisons the climate and ultimately harms patients. The written decree and sighting serves above all the security of the authorities. We must build trust between nurses and physicians through our expertise and mutual respect. Security can only arise in a climate of trust. Safety cannot be prescribed, it has to be worked out. Offer the homes you serve to participate in training. Case discussions allow you to take questions and concerns from caregivers and comment on the issues presented. Build trust through your skills and by treating caregivers with respect.
It’s worth it!
Cordially, your
