Yesterday was the last shift I worked with my preceptor of my six month critical care fellowship. We were notified we would be getting a transfer around 1300...about 1830 we received the patient from another ICU without ever having received report! It was a total nightmare. The nurse, RT and tech were trying to run out of the unit and dump the patient on us without even asking who the primary nurse would be. This patient came over with 3 drips our nurses aren't very familiar with and was desating! Anyone else have this happen to them? Believe me, our charge nurse was NOT happy, nor were we!

If this is a common occurance, (or in fact even if it isn't) it is worth reporting - whether you do an incident form (or whatever you guys over there call them) or a risk assessment it needs to be worked on.

If it happens again, and you've reported that you are aware of the risk and identified ways to stop further occurances, then you've covered your arse. (excuse the terminology). It's not about finding someone to blame for your bad shift, but making sure everyone knows this is UNSAFE practice and you are not willing to stand for it!!

I would have to say definitely hiding something.