We are a large state here in Ohio (not Texas or California type large but large enough) so we have more complaints. I can remember a few years ago when the complaints were around 2,400 a fiscal year here in Ohio.
The number of the complaints filed each year in Ohio (yes, I keep up with this type of stuff) is dramatically increasing each year. Whether its NCLEX applicants with criminal convictions, mandatory reporting, punitive reporting, voluntary reportig, self-reporting, prosecutorial reporting, reporter reporting, or just more patients, family members, and others being aware that they can file a complaint against a nurse and "watch them squirm." The number of complaints filed against Ohio Board of Nursing licensees here in Ohio are increasing.
See http://www.nursing.ohio.gov/PDFS/NextMeeting/M1/2.2-2009AnnualReportDraft.pdf
I think I will play 5501 in the Pick Four next week. I don't usually play the numbers but I think I will next week. And don't try to file a complaint against me with the Ohio Board for my repeated discussions and inferences to slot machines and other forms of gambling on this blog.
Tess, thank you for the thoughtful comment.
Posted by: latonia | September 14, 2009 at 07:37 AM
This is my opinion, nursing should be approached with an stronger ethic from those persons wishing to become nursing professionals.
Nursing is not just a steady job now and future, or a secure way to maintain economic stability, nursing should be approached as a way of living, not making a living.
I have read studies that state nursing personel are rated very high in the public eye as being "trustworthy"
It breaks my heart when I see or read about nurses breaking that public trust.
A good nurse acts and understands what the practice act covers and most of all what the patient deserves in their care.
It is my belief that nurses need to uplift their fellow commrads, actually nurse their fellow commrads and treat them with respect, understanding and compassion, like most of do our patients.
Treating other nurses with respect, in my opinion with drop the number of complaints, with respect and understanding comes knowledge and a stronger work ethic.
Educate each other, work to better the nursing environment and we along with our patients with only benefit in the end.
Posted by: tess | September 12, 2009 at 08:13 PM