Charting in Labor and Delivery: Behind the nurse's notes - 222

In this episode, Hilary untangles the complexity of charting as a nurse in labor and delivery. She sheds light on the legal requirements and the impact on patient care. Stay tuned for practical insights and pro tips on charting in the healthcare setting.

Big thanks to our sponsor The Online Prenatal Class for Couples -- it gives you a good peek behind the nurse's station and what to expect from your labor nurse.

Timestamps:

00:00 Online prenatal class for couples prepares parents. 04:50 Nurses need to ask about coping with pain 07:33 Anticipating potential problems, doctor gives options. 10:29 Lawyers blame doctors and nurses for problems.

Keypoints:

• The episode discusses the intricacies of charting in labor and delivery, shedding light on the role of nurses and the obligations faced in the medical setting.
• It emphasizes the legal obligations of healthcare providers to meticulously chart patient information and assessments, primarily due to litigation concerns.
• The episode highlights the impact of charting on patient care, revealing that a significant portion of a nurse's time is spent on charting rather than providing direct care.
• It delves into the frustration experienced by healthcare professionals, especially nurses, in dealing with the extensive charting requirements and the limitations it poses on delivering optimal care.
• The discussion touches upon the annoyance felt by patients from the repetition of assessments and inquiries, acknowledging their perspective in the medical setting.
• It contrasts paper charting with computer charting, noting that while computer charting may automate some aspects, it often necessitates more detailed input and navigation, potentially adding to the workload.
• The episode addresses the legal necessity of providing information to patients about potential risks and complications, highlighting the delicate balance between informing patients and respecting their autonomy in decision-making.
• It underscores the impact of litigation and the stress it places on healthcare providers, particularly in labor and delivery, where unexpected outcomes can lead to costly lawsuits and heightened anxiety.
• The discussion offers insights into the challenges faced in labor and delivery, citing the emotional toll on nurses and the impacts of malpractice insurance on healthcare professionals.
• The host hints at upcoming episodes on topics including Disneyland tips and fascinating facts about the placenta, adding a lighter note after the heavy discussion on charting and litigation in the medical field.

Producer: Drew Erickson

Keywords:

charting, nurse, labor and delivery, fetal heart rate monitoring, litigation, legal obligations, medical care, prenatal class, online prenatal class, labor and delivery providers, patient care, childbirth, hospital charting, computer charting, paper charting, malpractice insurance, malpractice lawsuit, medical litigation, informed consent, induction, preeclampsia, big baby, shoulder dystocia, assessment, pain management, medical assessments, maternal health, electronic medical reco