Take the 5th....if you can't beat them , join them.
Three emerging themes,
a) technological changes, disease management, and the tools to beat it are becoming more complex.
b) demand is increasing, and the public is demanding more.
c) "supply" is decreasing, more and more GP's/docs retiring, working time directive etc.
Who is in the best position to fill the void, for the best of our patients, yes, nurses.
It sounds from your reply, that you are more expert at male cathetirisation/giving diamorphine etc than your medical colleagues, so why aren't you doing it !
The opportunity is there. We (nursing), are getting the support from the top to explore our boundaries, and to challenge this traditional medical / nursing divide.
You will meet some resistance, but not surpringly, from your medical coleagues. It will more likely come from your own ranks, particually those who are quite comfortable with their traditional roles and responsibilities.
Stop hiding behind your uniform, get out there and do something about it. After all, its about whats best for your patients at the end of the day.
