My hospital is implementing more nurse involvement throughout different levels and RN's are being asked to participate on committees and attend meetings during their shift. This year I will have to attend three different committees each month and I am concerned that this will put an unfair burden on the other nurses who have to cover for my patients while I'm at meetings. Most are one hour but one is asking for 2 hours (we have 12-hr shifts). I also worry about patient safety being compromised. Any other nurses dealing with this issue? Does your hospital make special arrangements? Your suggestions and comments are appreciated.

I hate leaving my patients. SO I understand what you are saying. I dont even leave for a half hour when I am at work. Typical night shift. Can you speak to the charge nurse before your shift to give you patients that are less demanding? Alot of times when one of charge nurses have to go to meetings in the middle of the shift we will forgot a unit clerk to have an extra nurse to cover. If we cant do that we give them two patients that could easily be spilt between two other nurses so thier 3rd patient was not a burden to them. I dont know what kind of floor you work if that is possible or not. Other then plan on taking the say off and come in on your own time I dont know what eles you can do. I would def. speak to your director.