[broadnaxyogi]

As sadd as it may seem, yes were are targets of violence and disrespect though we are trying to care for all sorts of folks from all walks of life. I attempt to be non-judgemental, and compassionate in all cases however I refuse to be assualted, abused, and disrespected physically, no matter what the cost because I have to live with, and die as me with or without a nursing job, get my drift.....:39:

[broadnaxyogi]

:endof:

[MRS. ERNURSE]

Woofinrain,

In California, it is a felony to assult a helathcare worker. The first place I would go is to the police to make a report. You wrote that this patient beat you up. If this happen in a supermarket, you would call the police. Why would we not defend ourselves at work. We are nurses, yes. However, we are US citizens that live in a country that has laws TO PROTECT US, even in Georgia. Go get 'em!!!

[Drum RN]

I have a lot of thoughts on this issue.

Other hospital ER's I've been at in Wisconsin and Oregon actually ban repeat offenders from the ER. They either show up to the ED drunk, an ambulance is called for them because they are passed out drunk, or they get violent with the staff. I wish more hospitals did this.

One of the things that really irks me though is that I'm paying to give them care. The over 1/3 of my paycheck that is taken out in taxes goes for paying for these people. And yes I too have seen people with fur coats, driving pimped up cars, with a lot of bling and cell phones that are on Medicaid. They use the system.

I have been spit on, scratched, verbally threatened, and choked in my 6 years as an ED RN. Did I defend myself? No. Did I press charges? No. Will I next time? Yes. I'm soon to be a 2nd degree black belt and next time I'll use my training.

I had an incident where I've lost all my faith in my hospitals public safety (security) to help me. And I've lost faith in my co-workers. Its sad to know that no one has your back. And its sad to know that the rest of the staff and administration except it.