PT’s Time
Recently I had a list of what I thought were difficult patients. One particular patient was actively vomiting in the morning. I spoke with the nurse who stated she needed to call the MD to get something for the patient because of this.
I found the PT and was updating her on the patients condition and my conversation with the nurse.
The PT's response, "I don't have time for this Jason".
My first inclination was to remind the PT that it was HER patient that SHE evaluated and she better make the time to listen to what was transpiring with the patient. But, I played it cool and suggested that I would check back with the patient later in the day.
Well, the PT decided to see the patient after all. Cool, I went home early to play with my children that day.
I suspect it was inexperience that caused the PT to respond that way. I remember I hated to hear bad news about the patients I saw and became upset if they did not progress. The PT probably felt overworked and didn't want added stress as well. Well, maybe. I also think the PT wanted that patient in a higher RUG category and realized the only way to do it was to see the patient herself. She knows I will not get the minutes if a patient is actively vomiting and ill. How she was able to is still a wonder to me.
I also question the PT's ability to work effectively with PTA's. If she does not take the time to listen to what is going on how can she keep adequately appraised on the patients situation. If I choose not to discuss a patients condition I will be questioned about why I did not tell her and then when I tell her she says she does not have time to hear it.
I am thoroughly confused about this PT, no DPT.