Time Management for New NPs

Now, where were we? Last month, I ended my post with the intention to discuss my time management concerns

Jennifer,

We have digichart (electronic medical records) at the clinic where I work.  Be careful what you wish for.  All clinic providers have digi on their home computers.  On my off days, I find myself checking labs and just checking in to see if any of my patients have called the clinic needing something.  

I really need to do something about this obsessive compulsive disorder.

I also am drowning in charts. I bring home charts to work on every day and often spend my weekends wrapping up notes that I can't get to. I would rather spend my time doing that than not be able to actively listen to my patients during their visits. I will be eternally grateful when my practice goes to electronic charting so I can get finished there instead of bringing things home. The charts are never left unattended and are locked in a box so no one can see any information to protect them. My family is used to my charting at home but would love to see my face above the paperwork. Hang in there!

Thanks everyone for the feedback.  I am already starting to burnout and have only been on the job for four months.  I am mentally and physically exhausted at the end of the day.  

I am running on fumes.  I have a new found respect for moms working full-time in and out of the home.

You need to also take care of yourself. How long do you think you will last working like this before you burn out? I learned the hard way, thinking I could do all for everyone. Have them make another appointment if their list of problems is too long. People need to be reminded that there are other patients besides themselves. This is probably the most difficult thing to learn about being a new NP. Best wishes!

Also consider setting boundaries for the patient. They are taking advantage of you and you are letting them. When they come in with a list of problems limit them to the most important two or three (most important three to them). Limit your time with them, it is OK to look at your watch periodically and say, other patients are waiting, lets address this more at your next visit, next week perhaps. The problem is not only that you are drowning in charting and exhaustion now but that you are setting them up to expect this type of undivided attention from you always.  Which, as you get busier and establish more patients of your own, you really won't have this kind of time to devote. Remember, when one patient demands your time and attention there are others waiting, sometimes very impatiently that go out and tell their friends how slow it is at the clinic. Take advice from someone who learned the hard way!

I feel exactly the same way about being the "dumping ground" for the schedulers. And if I see a patient who usually sees another provider, then they want to come back to me because they believe I listened. The difference is that I do this 5 days per week instead of 3. I'm drowning in charting! (I've just completed my first year as an NP).

Need to set  some boundaries for yourself.