EP 212: A Patient’s Perspective of Delirium With Amelie Susanne

EP 212: A Patient’s Perspective of Delirium With Amelie Susanne

by | Apr 21, 2023 | Podcast

EP 212: A Patient’s Perspective of Delirium With Amelie Susanne

What is a patient’s perspective of delirium? An induced coma is also known as MIC or medically induced coma, barbiturate-induced coma, or drug-induced coma.

It is also called as temporary coma or a deep state of consciousness controlled by an anesthetic drug.

Often, barbiturates like pentobarbital or thiopental are used to help patients. It can also be intravenous anesthetic drugs like midazolam or propofol, but what happens when a patient goes through an induced coma and wakes up from it?

Can a patient recall any memory while they are in a coma? This episode will talk about a patient’s perspective of delirium and many more. 

In this episode, we would like to introduce you to Amelie Susanne Roth. Susanne is a coma survivor. After an initial bacteria infection, Susanne had to be placed into an induced coma that lasted 16 days.

We talk about her time in the ICU and her experience of being in a coma and suffering from it. In this episode, we flip the script and learn firsthand about the patient’s experience.  

 

Questions for Our Guest

The questions below are some we’d like to tackle. We often go off-topic, so we don’t expect to hit them all. If you have any ideas, please let us know.

Looking forward to our conversation!

These are the questions you had in Calendly. We’ll go off our questions, and wherever else our conversation goes.

  1. Please give us a little background about yourself.
  2. How did you end up in the hospital? And can you go a little in-depth into what happened?
      • Do you know what kind of infection it was? Where it came from?

3. Can you put us through the course of your hospital experience? Before this, coming from the day you came in?

      • What you heard, what were you told, and how did you feel?

4. You going into a coma and being intubated; was this something you expected? 

5. When you were intubated and unresponsive, what was happening? 

      • Do you remember any of it? 
      • How did it feel?
      • Were you able to hear anything?
      • Was it just like a dream state?

6. When you came out of the coma, were you mentally back to normal?

      • Were you aware of the whole extubation process? For example, when nurses say, can you open your eyes, squeeze my hand, weaning process?
      • Did you suffer from any delirium or confusion?
      • How did you feel during everything that was going on?

7. Where do you think healthcare providers can improve?

8. What was the process after you regained consciousness?

      • Did it take you a long time to bounce back? PT/OT? What does PT/OT mean?

9. How has life changed for you?

      • Additionally, did you have any big realizations? Like a change in mentality or outlook? 

10. What made you decide to write a book?

 

Ending Questions

Before we end the show, we have one last question we like to ask all our guests.

If you had the opportunity to have a Cup of coffee with anybody one last time, who would it be and why? 

 

Links: 

www.ameliesusanneroth.com
https://a.co/d/efqtaHD

Do you want to learn more about a patient’s perspective of delirium? Watch the full episode here 👇👇

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction
01:32 About Amelie Susane Roth
02:38 How it all started
07:25 Experiences of Being Under Sedation and in a Coma
13:40 How does it feel to be in delirium or a coma?
15:57 A better understanding of why a patient gets agitated
18:14 The post-coma experience
25:03 Medicine Failing Patients and the Need for a Different Approach
27:50 Coping with Traumatic Experiences After a Coma
35:00 Life’s outlook after coma
40:48 Amelie’s life prior to becoming a patient
44:27 The Life Lessons While Traveling The World
47:18 Wrapping up the show

5 Tips to Effectively Earn Your Patient’s Trust

5 Tips to Effectively Earn Your Patient’s Trust

by | Apr 15, 2023 | Nursing

5 Tips to Effectively Earn Your Patient’s Trust

How do you earn your patient’s trust? Earning our patient’s trust is vital to us nurses. We can provide them with the best nursing care if they trust us.

But how can we gain our patient’s trust? Is there a magic word to use? 

 

Every Patient is Different

Not all patients are the same. They all have different personalities, moods, and preferences. Sometimes, it’s hard to guess what kind of mood our patients are in, especially when they’re in pain for some time. 

As nurses, we must adjust our personalities to our patients. We cannot be angry or grumpy when the patient screams at us.

We have to be firm but gentle towards them at the same time. Seeing them beyond their pain and complaints is the first step to earning their trust. 

So how can we gain our patient’s trust? Here’s how

 

#1. Introduce yourself and address your patient by their name

The first thing you must do in building any relationship is to introduce yourself. An introduction is an obvious thing to do, especially in a healthcare setting where you care for different patients. Just like building a relationship, an introduction is the first step.

However, introducing yourself to your patient is sometimes forgotten in a busy healthcare unit or setting. But remember that you will be the patient’s first point of contact for their concerns, calls for help, or inquiries.

It is vital that they feel like they know you and are receiving personal care from you. We cannot always remember every patient’s name, so an initial introduction is crucial. 

Introduce yourself and shake your patient’s hand. Tell them your name and who you are. Ask them what they prefer to be called and take note of this on their chart.

It will ensure a consistent level of care even when staff changes. It will also help the patient feel at ease, knowing they have someone to call if needed. 

 

#2. Always dress professionally

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “First impressions always last.” This phrase is accurate, so how your patient sees you is essential. How you introduce yourself is one thing, but how you show up is another.

As nurses, we must dress appropriately. Wearing a nurse’s uniform is one way, as most people will think that a person wearing that uniform has the proper training and knows what they’re doing.

But make sure that your scrubs or uniform are clean and pressed. It will create the right impression. Avoid showing up in your patient’s room with blood-stained scrubs or drenched in puke or body fluids.

Your patients may not be comfortable with you and may not cooperate with you at all. Always keep your appearance as positive as possible. 

 

#3. Listen to your patients.

Going in and out of your patient’s room is easy, especially when you’re taking their vital signs. You can mutter a few words while writing information on their charts but earning your patient’s trust is more than that. If you want to build trust:

  1. Talk to them.
  2. Make eye contact and actively listen.
  3. Ask questions, and converse with them.
  4. Pay attention to your body language, sit in front of them, and make it clear that they have your attention. 

Sometimes, taking a break from your usual nurse routines and being present with the patient. Take time to hear them out and listen to them express themselves.

When a patient knows they’re being listened to will make them feel confident that their concerns are addressed. That makes them trust you as their nurse. 

 

#4. Keep your word

It’s tempting to comfort a distressed patient by telling them that things will be okay. However, you must make sure that you act with integrity and honesty at all times.

Patients and their families appreciate honesty even though your honesty can sometimes be hard to accept. Avoid making false promises. Keep your word by following through with what you tell your patient. It is one of the best ways to earn their trust. 

You don’t have to promise anything significant. Following through with simple acts can help your patient feel they can rely on you. If you say you’ll be back in an hour, then be back in an hour.

Again, keep your word. If you can’t guarantee this, tell them you’ll likely be called away to an emergency or other tasks. Again, don’t make any promises you can’t keep. 

Our work demands are unpredictable, especially in a busy healthcare setting. If this happens, ask someone to speak with your patient, maybe another colleague familiar with your patient, and keep them updated on what is happening. These are a few ways to earn your patient’s trust. 

 

#5. Be Trustworthy

To be trusted means you have to be trustworthy too. Being open and honest with your patient is one step. And even when the situation is unfavorable, keeping your honesty is a must.

Your honesty may not always be a comfortable place to be in, but your patients and their families will appreciate it. 

Always keep your word, and do not promise anything you can’t do. When your patients trust you, building a relationship with them can help improve their recovery time, making administering treatment more manageable.

Therefore for your patients to trust you, you must also put in the effort and show them that you’re genuine with your intentions to help them. 

 

Looking for more nursing and travel nursing information? Check out these helpful links!

EP 211: MICU and Becoming a CRNA with Jenny Finnell

EP 211: MICU and Becoming a CRNA with Jenny Finnell

by | Apr 14, 2023 | Podcast

EP 211: MICU and Becoming a CRNA with Jenny Finnell

Becoming a CRNA is possible for any nurse. It may take time and a lot of dedication, but you can become one too. In this episode, we would like to introduce you to Jenny Finnell. Jenny is a CRNA with experience in MICU, adult open heart, and pediatrics.

She spends most of her time mentoring and looking for ways to build community and resources for our nurses. 

Jenny launched Nurses Teach Nurses in August 2022, a mentorship marketplace for nurses by nurses. She helps nurses by empowering them to share knowledge, promote personal growth and create a culture of support.

She is also the creator of CRNA School Prep Academy, which helps people get into CRNA school and succeed on the job. 

We talk about the life of a CRNA and what it takes to become one and overcome self-doubt in school and on the field. 

Questions for Our Guest

The questions below are some we’d like to tackle. We often go off-topic, so we don’t expect to hit them all. If you have any ideas, please let us know.

Looking forward to our conversation!

These are the questions you had in Calendly. We’ll go off your questions and wherever else our conversation goes.

  1. Can you give some background about yourself, your nursing experience, and how you decided to become a CRNA? 
  2. Why did you choose to jump into the MICU?
      • How was your experience in the MICU?
      • Any interesting cases? Common things you dealt with?
      • What were the expectations and some things you struggled with?
      • We often hear the phrase that nurses eat their young. Did you feel that way? Is this a good way to teach new nurses?
  3. What are the requirements for becoming a CRNA?
      • What experience is needed?
      • How is CRNA school?
      • CRNA school vs Nursing school?
      • Is there a certain “person” that gravitates to becoming a CRNA? 
      • Advice for future CRNAs?
      • With NP school, there isn’t a requirement to work as an RN. Do you think you really need that ICU experience to be successful as a CRNA?
  4. You’ve been married to your high school sweetheart. How important is having support?
      • Did you always get the support you needed? 
      • Work-life balance? 
  5. What made you start CRNA School Prep Academy?
      • Did you have a mentor in CRNA school? 
      • What can you expect to get and learn at the CRNA School Prep Academy?
  6. What made you start Nurses Teach Nurses?
      • How important is positive nursing culture?

Ending Questions

Before we end the show, we have one last question we like to ask all our guests. If you had the opportunity to have a Cup of coffee with anybody one last time, who would it be & why? 

Links: 

https://nursesteachnurses.com/#
https://www.instagram.com/crnaschoolprepacademy/
https://nursesteachnurses.com/#
https://www.instagram.com/nursesteachnurses/
https://www.cspaedu.com/steps

Here’s her journey from MICU and becoming a CRNA. Watch the full episode here 👇👇

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction
01:58 About Jenny Finnell
03:13 The Incredible Benefits of Pursuing a Career as a CRNA
04:54 What is the Environment of an Open Heart Surgery look like
08:19 The real responsibilities of CRNA’s
11:09 What does a life of a CRNA look like
13:29 Patient Care Differences Between Adults and Children
15:34 Tips to becoming a CRNA
17:05 How to Boost Your Confidence and Conquer Your Insecurities
23:21 Experiences That Paved the Way to Becoming a CRNA
25:50 Reasons Why Nurses Leave Bedside Care
30:39 The Benefits of Seeking Professional Help from Experienced Healthcare Professionals
34:22 Who are the Nurses teach nurses for
37:28 What is “CRNA School Prep Academy” all about
41:12 Things that need improvement in nursing
43:36 Wrapping up the show

 

EP 210: ER Nurse to Viral Content Creator With Stephanee Beggs

EP 210: ER Nurse to Viral Content Creator With Stephanee Beggs

by | Apr 7, 2023 | Podcast

EP 210: ER Nurse to Viral Content Creator With Stephanee Beggs

Can one become a viral content creator? The short answer is yes. Our profession gives us the freedom to become an inspiration to others. Whether it be through bedside nursing or content creators, we have the means to help others.

It is unsurprising to see many healthcare professionals rise to the ranks of online personalities as they help educate others about health and well-being. If you’re a nurse interested in making digital content, this episode is for you. 

In this episode, we would like to introduce you to Stephanee Beggs. Stephanee is a content creator, Forbes 30 under 30, and Emergency Room nurse.

She unintentionally became viral on social media for her quick, concise educational tools that led to the creation of RNExplained, Inc.

Our main focus today is ER nursing and crazy patient experiences. 

Questions for Our Guest

The questions below are some we’d like to tackle. We often go off-topic, so we don’t expect to hit them all. If you have any ideas, please let us know.

Looking forward to our conversation!

These are the questions you had in Calendly. We’ll go off your questions, and wherever else our conversation goes.

  1. Please give us a brief background about yourself and your nursing experience. 
        • What made you decide to get into emergency nursing?
  2. Let’s address the elephant in the room, do you have any beef with ICU nurses?
  3. What is the day in the life like of an emergency nurse? 
  4. Has your life changed significantly being a social media influencer? 
        • Did you get any backlash from your employer?
  5. How did you create RNExplained? What inspired you?
        • You became the 30 under 30 on Forbes for the education category. 
        • How do you juggle multiple roles as a nurse?
  6. How do you prioritize self-care as a nurse? 

Ending Questions

Before we end the show, we have one last question we like to ask all our guests. If you had the opportunity to have a Cup of coffee with anybody one last time, who would it be & why? 

Connect and catch up with Stephanee through her socials at: 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/stephaneebeggs/?hl=en
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RNExplained
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephbegg
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rnexplained/featured 

Want to become a viral content creator too? Watch the full episode here 👇👇👇

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction
01:39 About Stephanee Beggs
05:08 What causes the conflict between ER and ICU nursing?
07:24 What does an ER nurse’s shift look like
11:19 Traumatic experiences as a nurse
16:03 The love of helping and nursing patient
18:05 How RNExplained started
18:47 What is it like to be an entrepreneur and a social media influencer?
19:46 Secrets on how Stephanee balances her life
21:29 Nurse Influencers are being misunderstood by hospital administration.
27:51 Tips on how to avoid trouble with what you post on social media
29:13 Setting Boundaries with Employers and Social Media Influence
30:47 How Stephanee grew RNExplained
33:11 Stephanee’s future business plans
34:30 The importance of self-care?
35:52 Wrapping up the show

EP 207: When Your Patient Falls

EP 207: When Your Patient Falls

by | Mar 17, 2023 | Podcast

EP 207: When Your Patient Falls

Patient falls are one of the many incidents that could happen to patients in hospitals, and as much as nurses do their best to prevent this from happening, it cannot be avoided. It does happen. But can you avoid this incident?

And what are the usual or common causes of patient falls? Knowing these can help save your patient’s life and your license. It’s best to be prepared at all times. 

In today’s episode, we will discuss our experiences when a patient fell. We’ll also discuss how it happened, how we felt, and what we had to do. In addition to that, we will also discuss what to do when a patient falls and the most common causes of it. 

What to Do When a Patient Falls

  1. Call for help and stay with the patient
  2. Assess the patient for any injuries
    • Ask what happened and if they have any pain or hit their head
    • If the patient is unable to respond appropriately, assume they hit their head
    • Are there any visible injuries?
  3. Notify MD, Charge, house supervisor
  4. Take the patient to CT
  5. Notify family if needed
  6. Make the patient a forever high fall risk
  7. Chart what happened
  8. File an incident report

Reports on Patients Falling in Hospitals

Each year, somewhere between 700,000 and 1,000,000 people in the United States fall into the hospital. A fall may result in fractures, lacerations, or internal bleeding, increasing health care utilization. 

  • Falls occur at a rate of 3–5 per 1000 bed-days
  • Resulting in around 250,000 injuries and up to 11,000 deaths
  • Approximately one in four falls result in injury, with about 10% resulting in serious injury.

Most Common Causes of Patient Falls

We looked at several websites to see the most common causes of falls. According to some law firms, the most common causes of falls are:

  • Failure to Call a Nurse for Assistance
  • The Bed-Exit Alarm is Not Set
  • Patients are on High-Risk Medication
  • Patient Inaccurately Assessed
  • Delayed Response when the Nurse is Called
  • Nurse and staff shortages
  • Slippery floors and surfaces
  • Inefficient work environments
  • Poorly lit or obstructed views

According to the joint commission, the most causes of falls are:

  • Fall risk assessment issues
    • Inconsistency in the rating of patients (Hester Davis tool)
    • Risk assessment tools not being an accurate predictor of falls
  • Handoff communication issues
    • Inconsistent or incomplete communication of patient risk for falls between caregivers
  • Toileting Issues
    • The patient did not seek help and fell while toileting
    • Medications that increase the risk of falls combined with toileting
  • Call Light Issues
    • The patient did not know, forgot, or chose not to use the call light
  • Education and Organizational Culture Issues
    • Lack of standardization of practice and application of interventions
    • Fall prevention education for patients and families is not used or is inconsistently used
    • Patient awareness and acknowledgment of their own risk for falls
  • Medical issues
    • Patient on one or more medications that increase the risk of falls (e.g., diuretics, laxatives, narcotics, antipsychotics, or anti-hypertensives) 

 

Sources:

https://www.vanweylaw.com/insights/top-reasons-hospital-falls-occur-medical-facilities/
https://www.jacksonwhitelaw.com/az-personal-injury/causes-of-falls-for-patients-in-hospitals/
http://www.hpoe.org/Reports-HPOE/2016/preventing-patient-falls.pdf 

To avoid this situation, watch the full episode here 👇👇👇

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction
03:02 Matt’s Patient Fall Experience
10:20 Peter’s Patient Fall Experience
16:46 Who is liable for patient falls
20:26 What to do when a Patient Falls
24:55 LAW FIRM: Most commons reasons why patients fall
28:44 Healthcare Joint Commission: Most commons reasons why patients fall
37:52 Wrapping up the show