What To Do When You Don't Like Your Doctor's Nurse

Dear Dr. Cason,

I just need some advice on a certain situation. My pediatrician used to have a fabulous nurse in the office that recently left and was replaced by a horribly incompetent one. She was awful at giving my 15 month old her shots and it really traumatized her, not to mention the needle came apart from the syringe as she injected one of them and the needle was stuck in my daughter's leg and some of the vaccine got on me instead of in my daughter. That's just one example of the horrible experience. What my question is, is how should I handle this situation? How would you prefer a mom to handle this situation if it was your nurse? I just really don't want this nurse to give my daughter any more shots. She has never been so traumatized by shots before, they have never been a big deal to her or me. I am already nervous about her next checkup. I want to handle the situation correctly but not get anybody in trouble. My pediatrician is just as caring as you are, so I would guess she would want the same actions taken that you would. Thanks so much for your time! - R



Dear R,

Oh no, that sounds like it wasn't a good moment for anyone! Situation like this happen all the time. I'm sure that there are many different ways you could handle the situation. For example you could go to the nurse and explain your concern or go directly to the office manager as they are trained to handle patient complaints. However the simplest thing is just to go directly to your child's pediatrician. She'll definitely want to know that something occurred and how she can best help you feel comfortable.

Don't rule out that this nurse may be very good and just have made a mistake. She also may be inexperienced and need more training. But then again she may truly be incompetent and need to be relieved of her duities. Having said all this, regardless of why it happened, someone needs to know so they can ensure that it doesn't happen again. I hope that this works out for you. Already it's stressful to bring your child in and watch them anxious but to worry if the nurse is doing the best of their ability is extra stressful.

Don't feel guilty about getting anyone in "trouble". As human beings we'll make mistakes and it's critical to receive constructive feedback. This is how we become better and grow as individuals and professionals. I do hope though at some point you'll talk directly to the nurse. She may have been having an off day and feel just as terrible as you do. I know that I've made mistakes and have been immensely grateful when I'm allowed the chance to make it better. If only just to say that I'm sorry.

Please let me know if I can be of any other help.

Sheila Cason MD