One change is the transition into computerized charting. Another is the medications are dispensed differently. Most hospitals have a computerized pyxis machine which you get into and brings up the pt. name and the meds you are allowed to take out under his name only if ordered by the physician.
After being a nurse for 20 years the amount of paperwork is constantly increased. I'm talking daily there is always another sheet of paper to fill out.
I can say being a professional nurse to me means being well respected from other nurses, physicians and patients. Unfortunately, nursing to mean is still a cut-throat profession. Nurses do not always stand together or unite. There is still a lot of caddiness and backstabbing that goes on. I
wish nursing could be more professional. I think if nurses could be more respectful to each other, as well as, appreciated by lay people enough to increase our pay we wouldn't have such a shortage. People would rather pay more for material objects than for someone who is actually caring for their life.
Sorry I went on a rampage.

Q: What changes have occurred in nursing during your career?

We have changed the way we chart our nursing notes and medication administration. When I first began working as a RN in the early 1990's we charted our notes and assessment on a standardized nursing form. Our medication records were hand written which at times we very difficult to read. Now all charting from nursing assessments, notes, and the administration of medications is computerised.

Medications are administered at my hospital using a system called Emar. Upon admission patients have armed bands placed on their wrist with a bar code that is unique to that patient. All medication records are uploaded into our hospitals computer system. Before any medication is given the medication is scanned followed by scanning the patient's armband before administrating any routine medications. This is done to ensure patients are protected from medication errors.


Q: What does it mean to be a professional nurse today compared to the past in your opinion?
Nurses today are expected to fill the roles of many people. In addition to basic nursing care we provide counseling and education to our patient's and their families. We are expected to trouble shoot equipment when it is not working correctly. We have been known to mop floors and remove garbage if it helps to create a cleaner safe environment for out patients. We our advocates for our patients and their families. Today RNs are expected to care for more patients with less help from ancillary staff (nurses aides, unit secretaries), and we are burdened with more and more responsibility all in the name of saving a few bucks.