As a nurse, your main responsibility is to provide a high level of care for your patients. Thus, it is also your responsibility to raise concerns about poor care should you witness it. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to go about raising a concern; including when it’s appropriate to do so and necessary steps.
When to raise a concern
The question of when to raise a concern can be a daunting one, especially for nurses who may be uncertain about the seriousness of a situation. To address this, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has developed a helpful resource, the RCN Raising Concerns Toolkit, which includes a decision-making flowchart. This valuable tool assists nursing staff in determining whether a situation warrants concern. It empowers healthcare professionals to make informed choices and act swiftly when necessary, without the fear of making an incorrect judgment.
How to raise a concern
Raising a concern is more than just identifying a problem; it involves a systematic approach to ensure the concern is addressed appropriately. Your employer should have a formal policy in place for raising concerns, which typically outlines the specific steps to follow. This policy may include details about the person or department you should contact to report your concerns.
You can do this either in writing or verbally and you should include:
Background information: Provide a clear and concise account of the situation, including relevant details such as the location, time, and individuals involved.
History of concerns: If applicable, document any previous instances or patterns of concern related to the issue. This context can be vital in understanding the gravity of the problem.
Reasons for concern: Articulate the reasons why you are concerned about the situation. Highlight any potential risks to patient safety and quality of care.
In cases where your employer does not respond appropriately to your concerns, you can seek guidance and advice from the RCN.
We hope you found this blog helpful. The team at MCM Medical is always here to help with any career-related queries so get in touch today via info@mcmmedical.co.uk if you’re on the hunt for new nursing opportunities.
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