I can't believe the month is flying by so quickly. Not long now until the conference starts....yippee!
Travelling partner and I are up to no good, according to her man. Imagine, two nurses using free time to shop and be tourists and share all the sale info with your fellow conference attendees.
For shame...!
Stay tuned for more sales, I mean, conference, updates.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Lest we forget
Freedom Is Not Free
I watched the flag pass by one day.
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it,
and then he stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
He'd stand out in any crowd.
I thought how many men like him
Had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign soil?
How many mothers' tears?
How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom isn't free.
I heard the sound of TAPS one night,
When everything was still
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That TAPS had meant "Amen,"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington.
No, freedom isn't free.
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it,
and then he stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
He'd stand out in any crowd.
I thought how many men like him
Had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign soil?
How many mothers' tears?
How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom isn't free.
I heard the sound of TAPS one night,
When everything was still
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That TAPS had meant "Amen,"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington.
No, freedom isn't free.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Get out the running shoes...
Run to this required class, run to the door, 'cause with the holidays coming, they'll be lots of running in the Hotel Rehab. The weather's nice, so everyone wants to get out.
I'm so glad I can recuperate this weekend! Stay tuned!
I'm so glad I can recuperate this weekend! Stay tuned!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Making nursing visible #1
You may think it's a load of *&^( to think that nursing is an "invisible" profession, but in many ways, it is.
The following blerb came from Ye Old State Nurses Association, and I recommend you follow the link and share it with your nursing friends, far and wide. Please make sure you vote. There are even suggestions, and include one of my former bosses among them (and no, I won't tell you who she is!).
I can tell you she is 1) powerful and 2) listed with a whole lot of other powerful nurses who should be recognized. Recognize one and you recognize us all. We are powerful. Let the rest of the world know, too.
======================
The following blerb came from Ye Old State Nurses Association, and I recommend you follow the link and share it with your nursing friends, far and wide. Please make sure you vote. There are even suggestions, and include one of my former bosses among them (and no, I won't tell you who she is!).
I can tell you she is 1) powerful and 2) listed with a whole lot of other powerful nurses who should be recognized. Recognize one and you recognize us all. We are powerful. Let the rest of the world know, too.
======================
[Sent on behalf of ANA’s Communications Dept]
RECOGNIZE NURSES AS POWERFUL PEOPLE
Vote for Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Powerful People
Silver Spring, MD- The American Nurses Association (ANA), the largest nursing organization in the U.S., encourages nurses to show support for the leaders in our profession by voting for nurses in Modern Healthcare’s “100 Most Powerful People in Healthcare” ranking. Nurses played a key role in the passage of health reform legislation this year. We helped make history! Getting nurse leaders included in the “Most Powerful” rankings is an excellent way to bring much deserved visibility to the nursing profession.
Let’s work together to get nurses on the list. You can help make it happen by voting here. Voting will continue through Friday, June 25. The final ranking will be published in the Aug. 23, 2010, issue of Modern Healthcare.
Nurses nominated:
Linda Aiken Univ. of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Karen Ballard New York State Nurses Association Geraldine “Polly” Bednash American Association of Colleges of Nursing Colleen Conway-Welch Vanderbilt University School of Nursing Barbara Crane New York State Nurses Association Sister Carol Keehan Catholic Health Association | Beverly Malone National League for Nursing Rebecca Patton American Nurses Association Sister Mary Jean Ryan SSM Healthcare Pamela Thompson American Organization of Nurse Executives Mary Wakefield Health Resources and Services Administration Marla Weston American Nurses Association |
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
So close...
I'm so close to being out the door for the weekend that I can taste it. My travelling partner will be getting ready a day ahead of me, so I am jealous! Will have to run errands and act crazy packing things up for the household right before I head to the airport.
Nevertheless, it's a lot of work, but I'm glad to be getting out on the road again. Creating and presenting material at conferences is fun!
More later...
Nevertheless, it's a lot of work, but I'm glad to be getting out on the road again. Creating and presenting material at conferences is fun!
More later...
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Heard on the unit
It's the sounds of summer, and so it goes for the latest installment of Heard on the Unit...
"Thank you for everything. You made me feel like a real person." Mr. D.
Mr. D. insisted on giving me a hug, because apparently, Mr. D's experiences with one of our sister hospitals has not been going too well. "I'm just going to come back here once a year, and not worry about them." he said before leaving recently.
"They're taking overtime away." Certain staff who work way too many OT hours elsewhere and want to call in sick on their home units.
Don't like it? Find another place to work. We aren't really thrilled by your calling-in behavior, either, since we get to stay over or come in early, whether we want to do OT or not.
(rumble, rumble, rumble) Outside the unit recently.
These sounds were caused by a bunch of these folks making their annual pilgrimage to Washington, DC in the Run for the Wall.
"Hooray!" RehabRN
Yes, I'm heading to my favorite Starbucks to chill with a cool drink, since someone gave me a free drink coupon. Life really is sweet!
More later...
"Thank you for everything. You made me feel like a real person." Mr. D.
Mr. D. insisted on giving me a hug, because apparently, Mr. D's experiences with one of our sister hospitals has not been going too well. "I'm just going to come back here once a year, and not worry about them." he said before leaving recently.
"They're taking overtime away." Certain staff who work way too many OT hours elsewhere and want to call in sick on their home units.
Don't like it? Find another place to work. We aren't really thrilled by your calling-in behavior, either, since we get to stay over or come in early, whether we want to do OT or not.
(rumble, rumble, rumble) Outside the unit recently.
These sounds were caused by a bunch of these folks making their annual pilgrimage to Washington, DC in the Run for the Wall.
"Hooray!" RehabRN
Yes, I'm heading to my favorite Starbucks to chill with a cool drink, since someone gave me a free drink coupon. Life really is sweet!
More later...
Monday, May 24, 2010
Thanks Grumpy!
I got this link to a cool cartoon site by a med student via Doc Grumpy. I'm sure there's a nursing student out there with similar talents...is that you? If so, send me your link.
Reminds me of my all-time favorite cartoon blog: Savage Chickens.
Health care is so entertaining!
Reminds me of my all-time favorite cartoon blog: Savage Chickens.
Health care is so entertaining!
Caregiver fatigue
There's always that patient who will wear you out...literally and figuratively. That's what happening at the Hotel right now. A whole lot of caregiver role strain.With the myriad terminal diagnoses we're seeing, everyone's getting fried. One patient in particular is viewed with such contempt, that some people don't want to care for him/her when family is not around. It's sad.
For my own knowledge, I've dug up a few resources from here and there, to change a few views. No one may read them on the nurses' lounge table, but it can't hurt. Hope you enjoy them.
For my own knowledge, I've dug up a few resources from here and there, to change a few views. No one may read them on the nurses' lounge table, but it can't hurt. Hope you enjoy them.
- Mayo Clinic has an entire section dedicated to end of life care.
- American Hospice Foundation has lots of articles on various topics, including a Grief at Work section.
- National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Reminds People, “It’s About How You LIVE”
Sunday, May 23, 2010
In the dark
It's been interesting lately. It always is when you work the evening and night shift. Most of your life actually happens in the dark.
First, you confide in your coworker who's sitting just outside in the darkened hallway of what you see around you. She's been a nurse forever (since dirt, she likes to say) so she tells you about life in other places, and it ain't like the soap opera of the Hotel, either! Yes, sistah!
Next, you eventually turn down the lights in the rooms so people drift off to sleep. Sometimes, they don't drift too quickly. They fear the dark, sleep apnea, and the doctor showing up tomorrow. They vent in the dark--"Why didn't Dr. X tell me why I had to have so many blood draws?", "How come I have this IV?" or "No one told me I had xx bug."
One of my patients confided a lot of firsts to me recently. First person he knew to become injured. First person in his family to have cancer. First one in his family who controlled his type II diabetes effectively. First one in his family not to have a heart attack. Now his cancer has caused his recent mayhem. He's going back and forth on a pendulum he did not choose--surgery here, treatment there, back to us, and the cycle swings back again.
He does have a little consolation. His siblings bought him a computer. While the internet's not working yet for him, he does play games, which keeps him occupied. One of these days, he says, he'll beat that computer in chess.
And off I go in the dark, for the next round of confidences and consolations.
More to come...
First, you confide in your coworker who's sitting just outside in the darkened hallway of what you see around you. She's been a nurse forever (since dirt, she likes to say) so she tells you about life in other places, and it ain't like the soap opera of the Hotel, either! Yes, sistah!
Next, you eventually turn down the lights in the rooms so people drift off to sleep. Sometimes, they don't drift too quickly. They fear the dark, sleep apnea, and the doctor showing up tomorrow. They vent in the dark--"Why didn't Dr. X tell me why I had to have so many blood draws?", "How come I have this IV?" or "No one told me I had xx bug."
One of my patients confided a lot of firsts to me recently. First person he knew to become injured. First person in his family to have cancer. First one in his family who controlled his type II diabetes effectively. First one in his family not to have a heart attack. Now his cancer has caused his recent mayhem. He's going back and forth on a pendulum he did not choose--surgery here, treatment there, back to us, and the cycle swings back again.
He does have a little consolation. His siblings bought him a computer. While the internet's not working yet for him, he does play games, which keeps him occupied. One of these days, he says, he'll beat that computer in chess.
And off I go in the dark, for the next round of confidences and consolations.
More to come...
Saturday, May 22, 2010
So many things...
End of school year for Bubba, camping trips, parties, and work for another week.
Stay tuned...more to come.
Stay tuned...more to come.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Nuggets for May 19
Happy birthday to my ol' grade school pal, T. She survived her girls dancing marathon where no hair went unsprayed and no makeup wilted on the dancing kids.
And for something completely different...you know people think too much of your nursing job when they ask you "can you be too constipated?" and proceed to rattle off their bowel history and comments on clients who tell them theirs. Oh.My.Freaking.Heavens! Here I thought I was doing something relaxing...aargh!
So now, for something completely different, here are the latest nuggets for your view pleasure (no bowel ones, I promise!)
Ease, sneeze and a little hygiene
How to squash worry (from www.cnn.com) I love this title, even if it's abbreviated here. Worry can weigh you down like a lead weight. Sometimes, you just have to let go!
Pollen allergies aren't the only ones out there. This recent NYTimes article discusses food allergies and it's impact on people and their families, in ways you may not have even thought about, including the cost of food.
I love this online excerpt from Dr. Atul Gawande's book, Better about washing your hands. Amen!
A cool concept
The Boston Home, is a home for people with MS and other progressive neuromuscular disorders. Thanks, T. for the link! In case you need more information on neuromuscular disorders, check out the following links:
May is ALS Awareness month, according to the ALS society. Visit their website at www.alsa.org for more information, with lots of healthcare professional and patient tools.
MDA (aka the Muscular Dystrophy Association) has this great page on the myriad types of neuromuscular disorders out there, with explanations.
And for something completely different...you know people think too much of your nursing job when they ask you "can you be too constipated?" and proceed to rattle off their bowel history and comments on clients who tell them theirs. Oh.My.Freaking.Heavens! Here I thought I was doing something relaxing...aargh!
So now, for something completely different, here are the latest nuggets for your view pleasure (no bowel ones, I promise!)
Ease, sneeze and a little hygiene
How to squash worry (from www.cnn.com) I love this title, even if it's abbreviated here. Worry can weigh you down like a lead weight. Sometimes, you just have to let go!
Pollen allergies aren't the only ones out there. This recent NYTimes article discusses food allergies and it's impact on people and their families, in ways you may not have even thought about, including the cost of food.
I love this online excerpt from Dr. Atul Gawande's book, Better about washing your hands. Amen!
A cool concept
The Boston Home, is a home for people with MS and other progressive neuromuscular disorders. Thanks, T. for the link! In case you need more information on neuromuscular disorders, check out the following links:
May is ALS Awareness month, according to the ALS society. Visit their website at www.alsa.org for more information, with lots of healthcare professional and patient tools.
MDA (aka the Muscular Dystrophy Association) has this great page on the myriad types of neuromuscular disorders out there, with explanations.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Lord, grant me...
Forgiveness, when I accidentally spill coffee on our most senior nurse as I pass.
Patience, when some patients think up all sorts of excuses.
Fortitude, when I have to transfer people who just want to give up, no matter how you try to give them a sense of dignity.
Restraint, when I really want to reach across the bed and strangle the specialist who tells me I am "leading the patient" with my questions. I really wanted to say, "Since I'm with him a little more than you and he told me xx (see that note), how am I leading him, when I'm asking for an update?"
Strength as I push, pull and move people around.
The ability not to cry, when my favorite patient (who's been here the longest of anyone we have right now) goes home. What a day to do it...bright and sunny!
Patience, when some patients think up all sorts of excuses.
Fortitude, when I have to transfer people who just want to give up, no matter how you try to give them a sense of dignity.
Restraint, when I really want to reach across the bed and strangle the specialist who tells me I am "leading the patient" with my questions. I really wanted to say, "Since I'm with him a little more than you and he told me xx (see that note), how am I leading him, when I'm asking for an update?"
Strength as I push, pull and move people around.
The ability not to cry, when my favorite patient (who's been here the longest of anyone we have right now) goes home. What a day to do it...bright and sunny!
What else can happen?
And no I'm not bringing up any scenarios. We've had plenty lately, thank you very much!
More later!
More later!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Robots?
One of my patients recently asked me when we were going to get robots to hand out the meds like they did in another hospital he visited. They've been in the media a few times, so you just never know....
I can think of a few uses for a robot right now at the Hotel.
1. Monitoring one-to-one patients. If we equipped one with Taser turned on a low setting, maybe we could keep one particular character from ripping off his/her dressings all the time.
2. Entertainment. When someone wants to talk for ages, we'd send in our friend, the robot. "Gotta run, but BOB the robot will be glad to talk to you for a while." Or you could play a video game on BOB's screen.
3. Send the robot on emergency call lights runs for things like ice, water, and blankets. Now if we could add an ice maker to said robot...ooh!
But finally, I don't think we'll be doing this with our robot: marrying folks on the unit. I just don't think Giacomo and the other chaplains would go for it!
More later...stay tuned!
I can think of a few uses for a robot right now at the Hotel.
1. Monitoring one-to-one patients. If we equipped one with Taser turned on a low setting, maybe we could keep one particular character from ripping off his/her dressings all the time.
2. Entertainment. When someone wants to talk for ages, we'd send in our friend, the robot. "Gotta run, but BOB the robot will be glad to talk to you for a while." Or you could play a video game on BOB's screen.
3. Send the robot on emergency call lights runs for things like ice, water, and blankets. Now if we could add an ice maker to said robot...ooh!
But finally, I don't think we'll be doing this with our robot: marrying folks on the unit. I just don't think Giacomo and the other chaplains would go for it!
More later...stay tuned!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Happy, happy, joy, joy
The latest semester of grad school is finally over.
Dahey and I celebrated by going out to eat and I had a very lovely sangria. We had dinner at a hip restaurant with some of these funky bar stools. Afterwards, we marched around the neighborhood sampling at a few of the stores, and then we sat out on a patio with a coffee and an espresso version of these treats while the weather was lovely.
More to come....
Dahey and I celebrated by going out to eat and I had a very lovely sangria. We had dinner at a hip restaurant with some of these funky bar stools. Afterwards, we marched around the neighborhood sampling at a few of the stores, and then we sat out on a patio with a coffee and an espresso version of these treats while the weather was lovely.
More to come....
Thursday, May 13, 2010
And to end Nurses' Week...
The Muse, RN is hosting Change of Shift at her place...go check it out!
Thanks for including me in your list, and to start things off, even. Wow!
Back to the final paper....almost over!
Thanks for including me in your list, and to start things off, even. Wow!
Back to the final paper....almost over!
You are the best
Thank you readers for nominating me for the Best Nurse Blog list over at Lydia's Uniforms. I didn't top it, but RehabRN made it into the top 5 (see this page).
Thank you all!
Thank you all!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Nuggets for May 12
Yes, it's nugget time again, and I'm blogging on my lunch break here at the Hotel. Here are a few goodies I've encountered in between reading, writing, and working.
From the blogosphere...
Just don't go there
As ER Doc points out in a recent post at Serenity Now Hospital, some people just shouldn't have an iPhone.
Finding a pearl
NYCRN has this great post of the same name on his blog about how his reasons for being a nurse are reaffirmed regularly.
Don't just sit there...
Dr Ves over at casesblog tells us we gotta get up and going while we're blogging. So do I get points for standing and blogging?
Open a window...
Kim at emergiblog got the door shut on her plans, but a window just may be opening...you go, girl!
Off I go...enjoy your day!
From the blogosphere...
Just don't go there
As ER Doc points out in a recent post at Serenity Now Hospital, some people just shouldn't have an iPhone.
Finding a pearl
NYCRN has this great post of the same name on his blog about how his reasons for being a nurse are reaffirmed regularly.
Don't just sit there...
Dr Ves over at casesblog tells us we gotta get up and going while we're blogging. So do I get points for standing and blogging?
Open a window...
Kim at emergiblog got the door shut on her plans, but a window just may be opening...you go, girl!
Off I go...enjoy your day!
The greatest nurse
I've only been a nurse for a little while compared to the people I've worked with, but I've noticed a few traits to consider if you want to be the "greatest nurse."
1. Roll with it, baby. My preceptor and confidant, G., instilled that in me in my orientation at Saintarama. Life happens while you're making other plans, as the song says, so always go with the flow and use plan B if you have to do it!
2. Have a sense of humor. As a kid, I hated shots. One of my favorite nurses, Mitzi, always found a way to get me to take them without them hurting so much. I use her line, "Dangle that arm like a dishrag and relax." a whole lot. Her counterpart, Rita, used to do a Bickersons routine every time she saw my mom, which usually sent the office folks away laughing.
3. Appearances can be deceiving, so use it to your advantage. Moral of the story: never mess with a 4 foot eleven inch former Navy nurse. MMB taught me that a good nurse can be tough and tender at the same time....and that nurses who work with moms and babies will take you out in a heartbeat if you mess with either. (Said nurse had to diffuse a momma/baby daddy situation before security came on one clinical.) She managed to do it without force. Whew!
4. Do what you have to do to get done, but get a break wherever you can. You're not going to be a very good nurse if you're crabby, have to pee, or have six phone calls to make . Prioritize accordingly. It may not solve every problem, but your bladder will thank you.
5. Sleep. Get enough sleep so you can deal with the tasks of the day. Many of your coworkers will slack off or work too much overtime, so someone needs to be paying attention.
6. Old school's not always so bad. Don't knock primary nursing. You may end up with less patients. My professor gave me the greatest compliment when I told her I was going to be a rehab nurse on a primary care unit. "That's what nursing is all about!"
7. Vent and get it out, but treat everyone you can with dignity. Yes, we get frustrated, but if we do nothing about it, it bubbles up and takes over. Find ways to relieve stress in a constructive manner, both at home and at work.
1. Roll with it, baby. My preceptor and confidant, G., instilled that in me in my orientation at Saintarama. Life happens while you're making other plans, as the song says, so always go with the flow and use plan B if you have to do it!
2. Have a sense of humor. As a kid, I hated shots. One of my favorite nurses, Mitzi, always found a way to get me to take them without them hurting so much. I use her line, "Dangle that arm like a dishrag and relax." a whole lot. Her counterpart, Rita, used to do a Bickersons routine every time she saw my mom, which usually sent the office folks away laughing.
3. Appearances can be deceiving, so use it to your advantage. Moral of the story: never mess with a 4 foot eleven inch former Navy nurse. MMB taught me that a good nurse can be tough and tender at the same time....and that nurses who work with moms and babies will take you out in a heartbeat if you mess with either. (Said nurse had to diffuse a momma/baby daddy situation before security came on one clinical.) She managed to do it without force. Whew!
4. Do what you have to do to get done, but get a break wherever you can. You're not going to be a very good nurse if you're crabby, have to pee, or have six phone calls to make . Prioritize accordingly. It may not solve every problem, but your bladder will thank you.
5. Sleep. Get enough sleep so you can deal with the tasks of the day. Many of your coworkers will slack off or work too much overtime, so someone needs to be paying attention.
6. Old school's not always so bad. Don't knock primary nursing. You may end up with less patients. My professor gave me the greatest compliment when I told her I was going to be a rehab nurse on a primary care unit. "That's what nursing is all about!"
7. Vent and get it out, but treat everyone you can with dignity. Yes, we get frustrated, but if we do nothing about it, it bubbles up and takes over. Find ways to relieve stress in a constructive manner, both at home and at work.
Happy Birthday Flo
Found this interesting article about Florence Nightingale across the pond at BBC News...enjoy!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Caffeinate...
And the countdown begins, amid cup after cup of coffee....
Three more days and class is out...for a while. Twenty-two days until the start of my conference.
It makes staying inside on a pretty, cool day worth it.
Three more days and class is out...for a while. Twenty-two days until the start of my conference.
It makes staying inside on a pretty, cool day worth it.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Please stop me...
From killing my new nurse coworker (aka crack New Nurse--and not for those brain skills, either...can you say klutz?) who keeps saying "I'm bored."
I'm thinking up some stuff for you to do, like getting ice and materials that I need, etc., but can't you think up something yourself? Every heard of reading a journal article (the Hotel pays for them) or two...or doing those online learning modules?
If I only had a dollar for every time he/she says "I'm bored"! Now back to our regularly scheduled program...work.
I'm thinking up some stuff for you to do, like getting ice and materials that I need, etc., but can't you think up something yourself? Every heard of reading a journal article (the Hotel pays for them) or two...or doing those online learning modules?
If I only had a dollar for every time he/she says "I'm bored"! Now back to our regularly scheduled program...work.
Mother's Day epilogue
My day:
Wonderful brunch with Dahey and Bubba, even if it was a tad cool outside. We had a nice afternoon stroll immediately following in the sunshine, playing by a fountain, which was a magnet for all of the little boys nearby.
The volunteers at work brought us stuff: fast food. Not sure why...no bingo games were going on last night. Just because, I guess.
One of our groups brought flowers for all of the nurses who were mothers and the chaplain corps handed them out while they were in the neighborhood for services. I told Dahey I didn't want flowers, but got some anyway. It was nice.
We celebrated amongst ourselves with a dessert cart...cake, ice cream, cookies and pie. That trolley and brunch played hell with my diet yesterday, but thankfully, it's only one day.
Back to the lions' den tonight, for more wild and crazy excitement. Stay tuned!
Wonderful brunch with Dahey and Bubba, even if it was a tad cool outside. We had a nice afternoon stroll immediately following in the sunshine, playing by a fountain, which was a magnet for all of the little boys nearby.
The volunteers at work brought us stuff: fast food. Not sure why...no bingo games were going on last night. Just because, I guess.
One of our groups brought flowers for all of the nurses who were mothers and the chaplain corps handed them out while they were in the neighborhood for services. I told Dahey I didn't want flowers, but got some anyway. It was nice.
We celebrated amongst ourselves with a dessert cart...cake, ice cream, cookies and pie. That trolley and brunch played hell with my diet yesterday, but thankfully, it's only one day.
Back to the lions' den tonight, for more wild and crazy excitement. Stay tuned!
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Reading and writhing
I had to take a break recently on a shift, because I got so tired of hearing everything second hand. Reading charts is a very important thing, especially, for all you new nurses, so you can really find out what's going on. Sometimes it doesn't matter if your facility uses SBAR, recorded, or in-person report, you just don't always get all the information, or you miss out on some interesting consults. Reading the chart will give you a glimpse into these items you missed.
One of our people had a CT scan recently that mentioned fungi balls. This page from an online medical dictionary tells you basics about fungi balls, and this one from the American Rhinological Society talks about sinus ones. (Warning: there are photos).
Another person had a PET scan. We don't have too many of those normally, but since a number of our patients have had cancer diagnosed while they're staying with us, we're seeing more of them done. I felt pretty confused reading the note on the procedure until I read this page (patient education from Cedars-Sinai) on PET scans.
While the material was not always the most comfortable to read, learning more about my patients helps me to take better care of them.
One of our people had a CT scan recently that mentioned fungi balls. This page from an online medical dictionary tells you basics about fungi balls, and this one from the American Rhinological Society talks about sinus ones. (Warning: there are photos).
Another person had a PET scan. We don't have too many of those normally, but since a number of our patients have had cancer diagnosed while they're staying with us, we're seeing more of them done. I felt pretty confused reading the note on the procedure until I read this page (patient education from Cedars-Sinai) on PET scans.
While the material was not always the most comfortable to read, learning more about my patients helps me to take better care of them.
Happy Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day to all from one of the crew. Moms do what no one else will do, just like nurses.
One sweet patient talked Mom into bringing us flowers from the garden and another had a bouquet delivered to the nurses' station.
At least it covers up the bowel routines a little.
More to come...
One sweet patient talked Mom into bringing us flowers from the garden and another had a bouquet delivered to the nurses' station.
At least it covers up the bowel routines a little.
More to come...
Saturday, May 8, 2010
What more...
Can you ask for this lovely Mothers' Day weekend:
1. Weather prediction: storms.
2. Husband sick. Dahey worked and something worked him over.
3. That last paper of the semester looming over your head.
4. Working all weekend.
Here's to crossing fingers that I'll get to wear my new dress without being rained on!
More to come...
1. Weather prediction: storms.
2. Husband sick. Dahey worked and something worked him over.
3. That last paper of the semester looming over your head.
4. Working all weekend.
Here's to crossing fingers that I'll get to wear my new dress without being rained on!
More to come...
Friday, May 7, 2010
Semester in the crosshairs
It's almost over, it's almost over...and then it will be summer, for a mere three weeks.
I love school when it's recess.
I love school when it's recess.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Low tech, high tech
This story below is from Giacomo, my friend, hospital chaplain at World Renown, a fancy-schmancy level one trauma center.
Giacomo was at the nurses' station in a certain ICU unit, talking to a fellow chaplain, when he noticed something move on the floor. Turns out one of the resident varmints (aka good sized cockroach) ambled into the nurses' station in the middle of day shift.
Giacomo says to the charge nurse, "What's your policy on him?" pointing to said cucharacha. Charge nurse just shrugged and took off.
Being the manly character he is, Giacomo strolls over to the stopped varmint, smashes him and with a tissue, picks it up and buries it in the nearest garbage can.
Giacomo goes back to his spot with the other chaplain and says, "It's nice to know in this high-tech ICU, some things are still low tech." which caused an enormous roar of laughter from the intensivist sitting nearby.
I'll have to remember to tell our chaplain this story the next time he's on the unit....
Giacomo was at the nurses' station in a certain ICU unit, talking to a fellow chaplain, when he noticed something move on the floor. Turns out one of the resident varmints (aka good sized cockroach) ambled into the nurses' station in the middle of day shift.
Giacomo says to the charge nurse, "What's your policy on him?" pointing to said cucharacha. Charge nurse just shrugged and took off.
Being the manly character he is, Giacomo strolls over to the stopped varmint, smashes him and with a tissue, picks it up and buries it in the nearest garbage can.
Giacomo goes back to his spot with the other chaplain and says, "It's nice to know in this high-tech ICU, some things are still low tech." which caused an enormous roar of laughter from the intensivist sitting nearby.
I'll have to remember to tell our chaplain this story the next time he's on the unit....
Nuggets for May 5
Yes, it's the Cinco de Mayo edition of Nuggets, so enjoy your selection wherever you are!
Thank you, Uncle
The Department of Veterans' Affairs has spent lots of money on electronic health records over the years, but it's gotten the bang for the buck according to this article from Medical News Today.
You just never know...
We've had more than a few cancer patients already with us this year and this article is absolutely amazing: Cases: 17 years later, a cancer survivor is savoring life. (from www.nytimes.com)
Artsy
Dahey is a big pop art lover, so he enjoyed this book review called the Pop Revolution (from www.wsj.com)
My addled brain ain't so bad
This article from the Well blog at www.nytimes.com sure made me, a middle-aged nurse, take heed: The talents of a Middle-Aged Brain.
Kiddos, the best IS really yet to come! More next time. Thanks for stopping by...and adios!
Thank you, Uncle
The Department of Veterans' Affairs has spent lots of money on electronic health records over the years, but it's gotten the bang for the buck according to this article from Medical News Today.
You just never know...
We've had more than a few cancer patients already with us this year and this article is absolutely amazing: Cases: 17 years later, a cancer survivor is savoring life. (from www.nytimes.com)
Artsy
Dahey is a big pop art lover, so he enjoyed this book review called the Pop Revolution (from www.wsj.com)
My addled brain ain't so bad
This article from the Well blog at www.nytimes.com sure made me, a middle-aged nurse, take heed: The talents of a Middle-Aged Brain.
Kiddos, the best IS really yet to come! More next time. Thanks for stopping by...and adios!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Whew!
The days fly by at the Hotel Rehab when you're busy. It's been a lot like a bus station this week, with all the discharges, admissions and tests here, there and everywhere.
I got the pleasure of orienting a guy who wants to do everything himself. Yes! We don't get too many motivated characters. He's plugging away and wants to make the best of everything. I hope it all works out well. Once we straighten out his bowel, bladder and skin issues, we'll be set.
On top of all this, we had an in-service today. The Slug was a primo b*&tch, snatching my materials, so I withheld something near and dear to her...the presenter's chocolate box. There's no better way to get the nurses' attention but with a large plastic box filled with chocolates at the end of the day. It just warmed the cockles of my heart, as I ate her favorite dark chocolates before the box managed to get passed to her at the end of the presentation.
There was a big crowd at the pain seminar. Our people are some of the best customers for Ye Old Pain Med manufacturers....Percs, Roxies, you name it...we could have some people on the wall of fame.
Thankfully, when I got home, Bubba felt much better. After significant GI upset yesterday, he was happy and smiling today. Probably had to do with all the quality time he spent with Dad.
Oh, to be a kid again...just without vomit! Stay tuned...
I got the pleasure of orienting a guy who wants to do everything himself. Yes! We don't get too many motivated characters. He's plugging away and wants to make the best of everything. I hope it all works out well. Once we straighten out his bowel, bladder and skin issues, we'll be set.
On top of all this, we had an in-service today. The Slug was a primo b*&tch, snatching my materials, so I withheld something near and dear to her...the presenter's chocolate box. There's no better way to get the nurses' attention but with a large plastic box filled with chocolates at the end of the day. It just warmed the cockles of my heart, as I ate her favorite dark chocolates before the box managed to get passed to her at the end of the presentation.
There was a big crowd at the pain seminar. Our people are some of the best customers for Ye Old Pain Med manufacturers....Percs, Roxies, you name it...we could have some people on the wall of fame.
Thankfully, when I got home, Bubba felt much better. After significant GI upset yesterday, he was happy and smiling today. Probably had to do with all the quality time he spent with Dad.
Oh, to be a kid again...just without vomit! Stay tuned...
Monday, May 3, 2010
Heard on the unit, volume 88
Oh, we have so many interesting characters coming and going, it's a laugh every minute.
Here are some of the silly scenarios we've had at the Hotel recently.
A little modesty?
"I gotta cover up." Mr. S.
"Okay. Let's pull up those pants and move the towel." Nurse A.
"Oh, I gotta stay covered up, so YOU don't look at me. I know you want to see!" Mr. S.
Say what? Do you know how many bare butts and gonads we have to look at every day? And, yes, as a professional, it IS strictly business. And no, I don't look anymore than is absolutely necessary.
But when you consider yourself Don Juan, I am not at all surprised you have such high esteem.
Why are you here?
Doc B:" Now we will start your liquid diet tomorrow and you'll have your procedure on Friday."
Patient Z: "Why do I have to keep pooping for an MRI?"
Maybe Patient Z misunderstood something when Doc B mentioned him/her about this earlier...oh no!
Patient satisfaction
Patient Y: "I want to talk to the head nurse. My nurse is sitting outside eating his/her lunch."
Head nurse: "It's his/her lunch time. What can we help you with?"
Patient Y: "Nothing. I'm just trying to stir up some trouble."
Yeah, so we don't look at you....right?
And last but not least, Mr. Demented left for a nursing home recently. He was in rare form screaming all night before he left. He cussed some on his way out and he said, "Hey babe" to others.
To me, he said, "See ya, babe." I'm sure we will...hopefully, not too soon!
More to come...stay tuned!
Here are some of the silly scenarios we've had at the Hotel recently.
A little modesty?
"I gotta cover up." Mr. S.
"Okay. Let's pull up those pants and move the towel." Nurse A.
"Oh, I gotta stay covered up, so YOU don't look at me. I know you want to see!" Mr. S.
Say what? Do you know how many bare butts and gonads we have to look at every day? And, yes, as a professional, it IS strictly business. And no, I don't look anymore than is absolutely necessary.
But when you consider yourself Don Juan, I am not at all surprised you have such high esteem.
Why are you here?
Doc B:" Now we will start your liquid diet tomorrow and you'll have your procedure on Friday."
Patient Z: "Why do I have to keep pooping for an MRI?"
Maybe Patient Z misunderstood something when Doc B mentioned him/her about this earlier...oh no!
Patient satisfaction
Patient Y: "I want to talk to the head nurse. My nurse is sitting outside eating his/her lunch."
Head nurse: "It's his/her lunch time. What can we help you with?"
Patient Y: "Nothing. I'm just trying to stir up some trouble."
Yeah, so we don't look at you....right?
And last but not least, Mr. Demented left for a nursing home recently. He was in rare form screaming all night before he left. He cussed some on his way out and he said, "Hey babe" to others.
To me, he said, "See ya, babe." I'm sure we will...hopefully, not too soon!
More to come...stay tuned!
Sunday, May 2, 2010
The sun is shining...
The birds are singing, I've got a new car to ride around in while mine is in the shop...and I have a brain cramp.
My paper is due soon...hope it will go away!
My paper is due soon...hope it will go away!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Kim's got the place...
And yes, it's Change of Shift time again over at emergiblog....don't miss it!
Thanks for including me, Kim!
Thanks for including me, Kim!
Nuggets for April 29
Oh, the joys of homework, yet again. Soon, however, this semester will be a memory.
So what does an avalanched grad student do in her free time outside with her laptop? Surf mindlessly, of course, in glorious weather, with her favorite brew at hand. Ah...if only life could be so sweet everyday.
Here are a few places of note from my meanderings on the internet lately.
From the blogosphere...
Gotta love teachers, and I just absolutely positively appreciated this post CrankyProf put up the other day. Priceless.
I got hooked on FML because Maha's got a link to it on her blog. As a mother, I especially appreciated this recent post. Thankfully, Bubba cannot take glass to school.
Finally, I ran into this article about names of famous diseases via casesblog.
More later...back to work...
So what does an avalanched grad student do in her free time outside with her laptop? Surf mindlessly, of course, in glorious weather, with her favorite brew at hand. Ah...if only life could be so sweet everyday.
Here are a few places of note from my meanderings on the internet lately.
From the blogosphere...
Gotta love teachers, and I just absolutely positively appreciated this post CrankyProf put up the other day. Priceless.
I got hooked on FML because Maha's got a link to it on her blog. As a mother, I especially appreciated this recent post. Thankfully, Bubba cannot take glass to school.
Finally, I ran into this article about names of famous diseases via casesblog.
More later...back to work...
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
How fast can you run?
To get two patients, up and out of their rooms, to therapy, and get their stuff moved so Bob, your favorite housekeeper, can get the waxing crew, in and out?
Never fast enough...arrgh!
At least, they'll have a bright, shiny floor today. Thanks Bob!
Never fast enough...arrgh!
At least, they'll have a bright, shiny floor today. Thanks Bob!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Dashed dreams
Yes, the full moon is coming, and craziness is just down the way. Lately, though, the mood has been mixed, somber and silly, crazy and cool at the Hotel.
I heard part two of a story about one of our new nurses. Funny thing, both stories about the same incident were completely different from nurses with many years of experience, one present for the whole thing and one who heard about the incident from the nurse directly. It just reminds me that scuttlebutt is just that...lots of rumor and not lots of substance.
For our pending Magnet application at our facility, we had to fill out the yearly satisfaction survey. I usually make a line down my paper, straight down the middle of all the dots. I chose not to do that this year. If they really want us to get Magnet, they really need to know what's going on. Difference tolerated? You must be kidding...Is your manager supportive? Sure, if you can come to work every day and not ask for anything out of the ordinary. Are your peers supportive? I nearly fell on the floor dying of laughter on that one, especially after the incident I mentioned earlier. How do we support and nurture new nurses if we don't talk to them rationally and make everything a turf war where someone has to "win"?
One of our patients recently went for a series of GI tests. One revealed a very large gastric "polyp". My heart sank when I read the procedure report. The colonoscopy revealed some issues, too, but none like that. They also ran the usual bug tests to see what else is going on. Now all we can do is wait.
The patients, however, were still the same, rolling around, going to therapy, watching TV.
And the story continues...stay tuned.
I heard part two of a story about one of our new nurses. Funny thing, both stories about the same incident were completely different from nurses with many years of experience, one present for the whole thing and one who heard about the incident from the nurse directly. It just reminds me that scuttlebutt is just that...lots of rumor and not lots of substance.
For our pending Magnet application at our facility, we had to fill out the yearly satisfaction survey. I usually make a line down my paper, straight down the middle of all the dots. I chose not to do that this year. If they really want us to get Magnet, they really need to know what's going on. Difference tolerated? You must be kidding...Is your manager supportive? Sure, if you can come to work every day and not ask for anything out of the ordinary. Are your peers supportive? I nearly fell on the floor dying of laughter on that one, especially after the incident I mentioned earlier. How do we support and nurture new nurses if we don't talk to them rationally and make everything a turf war where someone has to "win"?
One of our patients recently went for a series of GI tests. One revealed a very large gastric "polyp". My heart sank when I read the procedure report. The colonoscopy revealed some issues, too, but none like that. They also ran the usual bug tests to see what else is going on. Now all we can do is wait.
The patients, however, were still the same, rolling around, going to therapy, watching TV.
And the story continues...stay tuned.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Complaints of the Day
Oh, you know it's exciting when lots of people have the same complaints. When the unit wasn't busy preparing for severe storms passing through, we've always got complaints. Here are the latest.
Of our 20 something people, at least 1/4 were complaining of itching last night. We lotioned, powdered and loaded up the Benadryl on all of them. Gotta love Benadryl...it keeps them quiet! No, we do not issue back scratchers. Maybe at those spa rehabs you've been to before, but not here, no sir!
Another favorite complaint: heat. Our unit is just not the place to be if you want actual climate control. We're the poster children for global warming, especially if you consider all the toxic fumes emitted during bowel programs.
And if specific complaints weren't enough, we had people complaining just so they could complain. Can you tell the full moon is coming soon? No...can't be!
Stay tuned...more complaints to come!
Of our 20 something people, at least 1/4 were complaining of itching last night. We lotioned, powdered and loaded up the Benadryl on all of them. Gotta love Benadryl...it keeps them quiet! No, we do not issue back scratchers. Maybe at those spa rehabs you've been to before, but not here, no sir!
Another favorite complaint: heat. Our unit is just not the place to be if you want actual climate control. We're the poster children for global warming, especially if you consider all the toxic fumes emitted during bowel programs.
And if specific complaints weren't enough, we had people complaining just so they could complain. Can you tell the full moon is coming soon? No...can't be!
Stay tuned...more complaints to come!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
If it ain't broke...
Don't fix it. That also goes for contacting aliens on other planets, according to this recent BBC article.
Stephen Hawking may be a world famous astrophysicist and amazing ALS patient, so I have to agree with him.
I'm just hoping there are no aliens at work today. More to come...stay tuned!
Stephen Hawking may be a world famous astrophysicist and amazing ALS patient, so I have to agree with him.
I'm just hoping there are no aliens at work today. More to come...stay tuned!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Freaky Friday...epilogue
Things I learned today:
1. Your car really will be quieter when the exhaust system stays together. Any gaps can cause loud noises.
2. Good friends will always meet you for a cup of coffee, even if they're drinking something else.
3. Some patients, like boomerangs, will keep trying to get admitted to your unit, just like last year...and the year before...
Have a great weekend everyone! I will be working...at work and at home.
Stay tuned for more thrilling encounters...
1. Your car really will be quieter when the exhaust system stays together. Any gaps can cause loud noises.
2. Good friends will always meet you for a cup of coffee, even if they're drinking something else.
3. Some patients, like boomerangs, will keep trying to get admitted to your unit, just like last year...and the year before...
Have a great weekend everyone! I will be working...at work and at home.
Stay tuned for more thrilling encounters...
Freaky Friday
You know it's going to be a long weekend, when, being the good wife and bringing your husband lunch home, your car becomes the loudest, most obnoxious vehicle on the road. And just coincidentally, it started it's roar just before the turn off to go to the mechanic.
Sometimes I swear this car knows where it is in town and decides to act up anywhere near the mechanic.
I know the mechanic needs business, but how about getting it from someone else?
More later...
Sometimes I swear this car knows where it is in town and decides to act up anywhere near the mechanic.
I know the mechanic needs business, but how about getting it from someone else?
More later...
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Flashback
Once upon a time, I carried a laptop wherever I went for work. Every so often, I went to meetings with my team in restaurants. What better way to see what was happening out in the world.
Met up with a couple of members of the software madness team today for lunch...who brought laptops and met in a restaurant, some with nice, cold frosty beverages. I miss the people but not the neuroses of some of our customers.
Now if JCAHO would let us have beverages at the nurses' station....ahh!
More later...
Met up with a couple of members of the software madness team today for lunch...who brought laptops and met in a restaurant, some with nice, cold frosty beverages. I miss the people but not the neuroses of some of our customers.
Now if JCAHO would let us have beverages at the nurses' station....ahh!
More later...
I keep telling myself
I love evening shift, I love evening shift, I love evening shift.
Even if I don't. I know it's not nights, but I'm still tired!
Even if I don't. I know it's not nights, but I'm still tired!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A few more days...
Yes, I'm counting the days when I can escape the Hotel Rehab for a couple of fun conferences....
41 days until my travelling partner and I hit the road for conference #1
Please note, we will not be attending this conference, but it looks interesting!
and...
a mere 151 days when we roll the roadtrip map out again for conference #2, which is in that conference haven of all time, no, not Chicago...Las Vegas.
If only we could leave the bosses at home for both of them!
41 days until my travelling partner and I hit the road for conference #1
Please note, we will not be attending this conference, but it looks interesting!
and...
a mere 151 days when we roll the roadtrip map out again for conference #2, which is in that conference haven of all time, no, not Chicago...Las Vegas.
If only we could leave the bosses at home for both of them!
Nuggets for April 21
Oh yes, it's Nugget time again. Here's a few items I've found in my recent meanderings on the internet and visiting various blogs. Hope you enjoy!
From the blogosphere
Check out these treats from far and near in the blogosphere.
The office
So many things to talk about...and sometimes there are things you'd just rather not know about your coworkers. Bowel habits, shaving preferences, reasons why they divorced xx spouse and the list could go on and on. This Yahoo!Finance article called Spare the Details is just the ticket. That boss in a Speedo image makes me thankful one of my bosses is not my Facebook friend.
School
It's a classic you'll hear about again in a few weeks, but I've loved this column since it came out. From the archives of the Chicago Tribune, just remember to wear sunscreen.
Brain training
Yes, I've bought those brain training games and used them to no avail. They're cool at first, but end up boring. Check out this article from www.forbes.com called Becoming a Memory Whiz for a few tips on sharpening your memory.
An eye-opener
Many RNs already know about the contentious nature of the DNP credential in healthcare. My good friends from Ye Olde State Nurses' Association hooked me up with this interesting article written by an actual MD, Dr. Bernadine Healy, called The New Doctors in the House.
Did you know
Robert Pound, the physicist behind everyone's favorite noisy and claustrophobia-inducing diagnostic machine, the MRI passed away recently. As it turns out, Mr. Pound was a great British car buff. I really enjoyed the last line of his obit.
"Others recall that when confronted with a mechanical problem in a laboratory setting, he often gave the same advice as he would in the garage: “Did you try whacking it?” "
From the blogosphere
Check out these treats from far and near in the blogosphere.
- Maha solves problems in the ER with tricks she learned at the salon in Bet they didn't teach that in med school
- Dr. Grumpy's got the power to check up on you if you're shopping for narcs, kiddies. Look out!
- Parents of pre-teens, you'll never think of this the same way again once you read ER Doc from Serenity Now Hospital's story called Does your 12 year old little girl shave? Just gives me the creeps...and slight homocidal feelings if that were my kid!
- I really enjoyed AtYourCervix's Lost and Found recently. One of my recurring nightmares often involves losing something valuable at work...and having to dig to find it.
- She's not a nurse, but Pissed Off Patient has some interesting things to say about life with chronic illness. Go on over and check her out!
The office
So many things to talk about...and sometimes there are things you'd just rather not know about your coworkers. Bowel habits, shaving preferences, reasons why they divorced xx spouse and the list could go on and on. This Yahoo!Finance article called Spare the Details is just the ticket. That boss in a Speedo image makes me thankful one of my bosses is not my Facebook friend.
School
It's a classic you'll hear about again in a few weeks, but I've loved this column since it came out. From the archives of the Chicago Tribune, just remember to wear sunscreen.
Brain training
Yes, I've bought those brain training games and used them to no avail. They're cool at first, but end up boring. Check out this article from www.forbes.com called Becoming a Memory Whiz for a few tips on sharpening your memory.
An eye-opener
Many RNs already know about the contentious nature of the DNP credential in healthcare. My good friends from Ye Olde State Nurses' Association hooked me up with this interesting article written by an actual MD, Dr. Bernadine Healy, called The New Doctors in the House.
Did you know
Robert Pound, the physicist behind everyone's favorite noisy and claustrophobia-inducing diagnostic machine, the MRI passed away recently. As it turns out, Mr. Pound was a great British car buff. I really enjoyed the last line of his obit.
"Others recall that when confronted with a mechanical problem in a laboratory setting, he often gave the same advice as he would in the garage: “Did you try whacking it?” "
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
And I left the cool gloves at home
So Bubba and the scouts had to put up with plain, old white vinyl gloves. No pretty purple nitriles for the kiddies.
Thankfully, while we were cleaning up our section of adopted road recently, the following things occurred:
Stay tuned...
Thankfully, while we were cleaning up our section of adopted road recently, the following things occurred:
- No kids fell into the creek from a height of 12 feet or greater.
- No one was cut by broken glass.
- No one ran into the street.
- And last but not least, there was no need to explain uncapped needles or pornographic magazines as they did last time on this cleanup.
Stay tuned...
Monday, April 19, 2010
Mondays are fun...
The boss is away so the mice will play.
The Slug and company were at it again with their two hour lunches. If only someone cared.
One of our scatterbrained former educator nurses (we have three, so let's call him/her Scatty) griped and complained about his/her assignment. Since Mom/Dad, the nurse manager, was gone to a conference today, Scatty had no one to complain to and get the assignment changed. So what happened?
Scatty sat around when he/she could have been working. Scatty couldn't possibly get his/her patient up right away. Nope, Scatty didn't even try until NurseMom ('cause she is like everyone's mom) and I went to him/her and said we'd help. The Slug can't stand Scatty, so he/she sent minions in to find out if Scatty 'helped' get the patient out of bed. I really wanted to tell minion to tell the Slug to bugger off, but in my best customer service voice, I said, "Scatty sure did!"
For our gratitude, Scatty left the campus, practiced some retail therapy, then went to lunch. It would have been nice if Scatty would have remembered to tell someone, perhaps even the charge? Nah...not when the boss is gone!
NurseMom went to a meeting so I covered some of her stuff for our charge. My people did not want to go to bed, so they rolled around and visited with relatives.
We had some NFL types roaming around with the customary PR toadies in tow. Some interesting dilemmas...how do you get a linebacker in one of our isolation gowns? They were nice though, and the patients had fun with it all, toadies or no.
Finally, I did my stuff, got my goodies and went on my merry way. More to come...
The Slug and company were at it again with their two hour lunches. If only someone cared.
One of our scatterbrained former educator nurses (we have three, so let's call him/her Scatty) griped and complained about his/her assignment. Since Mom/Dad, the nurse manager, was gone to a conference today, Scatty had no one to complain to and get the assignment changed. So what happened?
Scatty sat around when he/she could have been working. Scatty couldn't possibly get his/her patient up right away. Nope, Scatty didn't even try until NurseMom ('cause she is like everyone's mom) and I went to him/her and said we'd help. The Slug can't stand Scatty, so he/she sent minions in to find out if Scatty 'helped' get the patient out of bed. I really wanted to tell minion to tell the Slug to bugger off, but in my best customer service voice, I said, "Scatty sure did!"
For our gratitude, Scatty left the campus, practiced some retail therapy, then went to lunch. It would have been nice if Scatty would have remembered to tell someone, perhaps even the charge? Nah...not when the boss is gone!
NurseMom went to a meeting so I covered some of her stuff for our charge. My people did not want to go to bed, so they rolled around and visited with relatives.
We had some NFL types roaming around with the customary PR toadies in tow. Some interesting dilemmas...how do you get a linebacker in one of our isolation gowns? They were nice though, and the patients had fun with it all, toadies or no.
Finally, I did my stuff, got my goodies and went on my merry way. More to come...
It's almost over...
It's almost over, I keep telling myself, as I look at the tree I murdered for my class to print out all of the handouts, instead of reading them all online.
In mere weeks, I'll actually get a vacation from school...for about three weeks.
I am motivated! Motivated to get done.
Stay tuned...and note, no tree was murdered to post this, either. ;->
In mere weeks, I'll actually get a vacation from school...for about three weeks.
I am motivated! Motivated to get done.
Stay tuned...and note, no tree was murdered to post this, either. ;->
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Hannibal used to say...
"I love it when a plan comes together." and chomped on his cigar, in just about every episode.
I thought of this very saying when I read Theresa Brown's latest installment called When Nursing is a Team Sport.
Makes me wish this happened more often on our unit. She mentioned some valid concerns--especially ego and too much overtime.
Hope you enjoy this happy phenomenon wherever you are today...stay tuned for more excitement.
I thought of this very saying when I read Theresa Brown's latest installment called When Nursing is a Team Sport.
Makes me wish this happened more often on our unit. She mentioned some valid concerns--especially ego and too much overtime.
Hope you enjoy this happy phenomenon wherever you are today...stay tuned for more excitement.
Spring has sprung, part 37
The sun is finally shining, the birds are singing, and we are all sneezing at home and at the Hotel Rehab.
The seasons change, but for the most part, the stories remain the same...with a few variations.
Some of our regulars come in for annual testing and we see them on the unit. Sometimes they have good news, and sometimes they have not so good news. One character came in with bandaged feet. We just wonder how long it will be before he stays with us again.
And if they can survive the hell that is flu season, we hear from them. Some, however, didn't make it this year. One of our recent visitors left and never returned. He/she got a cold, turned into pneumonia, and not long after, he/she was dead.
The flowers are beautiful in our garden, with the tulips and other flowers. It's too beautiful to stay inside.
More to come...
The seasons change, but for the most part, the stories remain the same...with a few variations.
Some of our regulars come in for annual testing and we see them on the unit. Sometimes they have good news, and sometimes they have not so good news. One character came in with bandaged feet. We just wonder how long it will be before he stays with us again.
And if they can survive the hell that is flu season, we hear from them. Some, however, didn't make it this year. One of our recent visitors left and never returned. He/she got a cold, turned into pneumonia, and not long after, he/she was dead.
The flowers are beautiful in our garden, with the tulips and other flowers. It's too beautiful to stay inside.
More to come...
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The weekend? Yes!
I'll be so happy it's the weekend. My day was not bad, but lots of physical labor. I found out today a few people wonder if my true calling is "upstairs" (in the offices).
Sure, if it means I can keep my back a bit longer!
I'll be resting up this weekend...sort of. Should be interesting. I hope the rains will wash ALL the pollen away.
More to come...
Sure, if it means I can keep my back a bit longer!
I'll be resting up this weekend...sort of. Should be interesting. I hope the rains will wash ALL the pollen away.
More to come...
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Spring has sprung
There's no patio furniture outside, but with all the stretchers and wheelchairs on the back patio, you'd think we were having a party.
At least, it keeps people out of trouble...and gets some of the nurses outside on "business". It's rough when you have to eat your lunch with a patient outside.
More to come...stay tuned
At least, it keeps people out of trouble...and gets some of the nurses outside on "business". It's rough when you have to eat your lunch with a patient outside.
More to come...stay tuned
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
A good Nurses' Week gift
Tired of all that stupid stuff you get for Nurses' Week? Are you creative?
Here's your chance to 1) get something you want, 2) potentially win a real prize and 3) support a good cause, the March of Dimes.
I got this note from the mailbag today, so read and have a look.
Here's your chance to 1) get something you want, 2) potentially win a real prize and 3) support a good cause, the March of Dimes.
I got this note from the mailbag today, so read and have a look.
Dear RehabRN,
My name is Josh Lohr and I am the Promotions Manager at Fibers.com. Fibers.com is a custom clothing company that gives our users the opportunity to design and order personalized products, such as t-shirts, hoodies, and a variety of other clothing items.
In observance of the approaching 2010 Nurse's Week May 6th-12th, Fibers.com and MedicalSolutions.com have partnered to bring you Give it a Shot! Nurses Week T-Shirt Challenge, a contest where Nurses and Nurse-aficionados can create clever and compassionate t-shirt designs all for the appreciation of the Nursing profession.
Beginning April 12, users may submit designs using the simple yet powerful Fibers.com design tool. No design skills necessary! Fibers.com has everything you need to create your own contest entry with over 400 fonts and 10,000 images. The contest ends May 12, the birthday of the founder of modern nursing Florence Nightingale. Three winners will be chosen to win over $500 in prizes. Vote for your favorite design today!
Visit the following link to view, participate, and vote in the contest:
I am writing in hopes that you may also help us promote the contest by sharing it with your readers. The goal of the contest is to honor the nursing profession all whilst rewarding those with the best design or slogan. Proceeds from the winning designs will be donated to March of Dimes. All are encouraged to participate and vote! Please feel free to share on Twitter, Facebook, or any other social media.
Grab a banner for your site here:
Best of luck and feel free to contact us with any partnership or promotion ideas!
Best,
Josh Lohr
Promotions Manager
Fibers.com
1931 H Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
1-888-542-0808 ext: 706
Josh Lohr
Promotions Manager
Fibers.com
1931 H Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
1-888-542-0808 ext: 706
Monday, April 12, 2010
Sick and very tired
I'm so glad I'm home today. I just feel so tired.
The last few days have been taxing. We sent out one of our regulars, for what may be his/her last time. Recently, we sat in the break room and I had a grand philosophical discussion with one of our nurses who's been around forever. She just couldn't believe the fact that this character couldn't get his/her needs met.
Oh, sometimes I wish our staff had to get more palliative care workshops, especially the docs. What's the point of waiting until it's too late?
The last few days have been taxing. We sent out one of our regulars, for what may be his/her last time. Recently, we sat in the break room and I had a grand philosophical discussion with one of our nurses who's been around forever. She just couldn't believe the fact that this character couldn't get his/her needs met.
Oh, sometimes I wish our staff had to get more palliative care workshops, especially the docs. What's the point of waiting until it's too late?
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Shufflin' through...
The full moon blues...it's always something interesting at the Hotel.
Recently, the character we sent to Saint Suburbia got intubated. Just makes you wonder why we take people back to rehab in the first place, when they're too sick to be with us. Can you say making a full house?
Mr. Demented was demented again and so loud, security came by to make sure we were taking care of him. Nice. Maybe the boss will move him to the other quiet area of the unit, where he won't disturb security...and everyone else going in or out of the building. Makes that poster welcoming visitors to our 'quiet, restorative environment' look a bit off.
If I ever get my wish of a genie in a bottle, it's aerosol Ativan for all, including staff!
And...I can't say it enough...thank you, thank you to all the folks with links to this blog, especially AtYourCervix. Want one? Go right ahead. Let me know so I can link to you, too.
I guess it is true...if you post it, they will come!
More to come...stay tuned!
Recently, the character we sent to Saint Suburbia got intubated. Just makes you wonder why we take people back to rehab in the first place, when they're too sick to be with us. Can you say making a full house?
Mr. Demented was demented again and so loud, security came by to make sure we were taking care of him. Nice. Maybe the boss will move him to the other quiet area of the unit, where he won't disturb security...and everyone else going in or out of the building. Makes that poster welcoming visitors to our 'quiet, restorative environment' look a bit off.
If I ever get my wish of a genie in a bottle, it's aerosol Ativan for all, including staff!
And...I can't say it enough...thank you, thank you to all the folks with links to this blog, especially AtYourCervix. Want one? Go right ahead. Let me know so I can link to you, too.
I guess it is true...if you post it, they will come!
More to come...stay tuned!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Some want out...
Others want to get into the Hotel Rehab.
Here's the latest installment of Heard on the unit from the mouths of sundown.
"Get out of here, b*6tch. You're trying to poison me." Demented character #1
He/she screams so loudly, we had to move him/her to a end of the unit where the sound is a bit deadened by open space between rooms. Besides poisoning, we were also attempting to commit murder according to this character.
"Move that sheet. I need to get up and get going." Demented character #2
Oh, no you don't. It's not time to get up I had to remind Mr. Night Shift. You just went to bed and you're not driving that truck over the road any more.
Thankfully, turning off the overhead lights, and then turning on his night light quieted him.
Here's the latest installment of Heard on the unit from the mouths of sundown.
"Get out of here, b*6tch. You're trying to poison me." Demented character #1
He/she screams so loudly, we had to move him/her to a end of the unit where the sound is a bit deadened by open space between rooms. Besides poisoning, we were also attempting to commit murder according to this character.
"Move that sheet. I need to get up and get going." Demented character #2
Oh, no you don't. It's not time to get up I had to remind Mr. Night Shift. You just went to bed and you're not driving that truck over the road any more.
Thankfully, turning off the overhead lights, and then turning on his night light quieted him.
Friday, April 9, 2010
These are the days...
One of my patients recently went home. He/she had a particularly harrowing set of tests to determine the origin of a problem. Tests were completed and patient left with family and no problems.
Patient grabs me in front of family, gives me a hug, and says, "I'd have never made it without you, RehabRN."
These are the days I really like my job.
Patient grabs me in front of family, gives me a hug, and says, "I'd have never made it without you, RehabRN."
These are the days I really like my job.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Writing, researching...
And ready to tear my hair out. This is a group paper, so we're all tearing our hair out together.
Wanna come work with me? At least, work is a break from the paper.
More to come...
Wanna come work with me? At least, work is a break from the paper.
More to come...
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
I want one!
If only I could get one of these:
Towel-folding robot (courtesy of www.bbc.com)
Look at all the time I could save! Amazing!
Towel-folding robot (courtesy of www.bbc.com)
Look at all the time I could save! Amazing!
It happens
Just as GuitarGirl mentioned in a recent post, sh*t does happen.
So why all of a sudden are we getting so many colonoscopy patients? Must be a sale...
More later. Stay tuned.
So why all of a sudden are we getting so many colonoscopy patients? Must be a sale...
More later. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Miracles never cease
The Slug got through his/her required customer service ninja training (I'm not kidding...) as a customer service leader.
WTF? Was he/she in charge of answering the phone?
WTF? Was he/she in charge of answering the phone?
One brave woman
She wasn't a brave, but Wilma Mankiller was one amazing woman. I really enjoyed a quote of hers below:
"Friends describe me as someone who likes to dance along the edge of the roof," she wrote. "I try to encourage young women to be willing to take risks, to stand up for the things they believe in, and to step up and accept the challenge of serving in leadership roles."
May we all be so brave, even if we never happen upon the edge of a roof.
"Friends describe me as someone who likes to dance along the edge of the roof," she wrote. "I try to encourage young women to be willing to take risks, to stand up for the things they believe in, and to step up and accept the challenge of serving in leadership roles."
May we all be so brave, even if we never happen upon the edge of a roof.
Hubby mourns...
The end of one basketball season...on to baseball. For me, it's on to work, and the rest of the week.
Stay tuned!
Stay tuned!
Monday, April 5, 2010
RIP
Dear old coffeepot. You made our day every single day of the year. Since my old klunky espresso maker died, I've come to rely on you for that syrupy percolated blend made fresh every morning.
Now I've got to go shopping and finally buy a new coffeemaker. Too many decisions on a Monday.
Now I've got to go shopping and finally buy a new coffeemaker. Too many decisions on a Monday.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Child plus...
Easter egg hunt in freshly mown grass plus multiple other little kids, equals mess for mom.
It's always fun until you feel like you're in a detergent commercial.
Happy Easter to all!
It's always fun until you feel like you're in a detergent commercial.
Happy Easter to all!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Chug-a-chug-a...
Choo choo! That was me, just putting nose to the grindstone getting work done. Boss gave me a crazy a&sed assignment and I felt like calling him/her on it. Thankfully, I got slowed up by the regularly scheduled rounding on each and every patient, so I had no choice but to squeeze things in here and there, between hanging IVs and medicating the minions here and there.
The Slug actually talked to me...in several sentences related to work. Darned near fell over from that since it's the most I've heard him/her say directly to me (not a jibe, mind you) since I started here years ago. Maybe he/she was being good on this here Good Friday. He/she's an atheist and lords it about on occasion and started to do so today. I'm all about the American view of freedom of speech, but his/her diatribes make me want to seek out the folks who can do something about harassment.
I found out recently my traveling partner and I will be hitting the road, not once, but twice this year. Unfortunately, one trip is with the boss, who apparently has groupies. The nice thing is, we can wear high heels if we want, since our show does not require standing for hours...hooray! Should be interesting...if we don't kill him/her before we get on the plane. The good thing: Dahey and I may get to celebrate our anniversary in one city while I'm there. Oh, I can't wait!
Now, it's back to prepping for Easter dinner company. Lots of cleaning, folding, egg dyeing and basket building going on here and some homework thrown in for good measure. Should be fun...stay tuned.
The Slug actually talked to me...in several sentences related to work. Darned near fell over from that since it's the most I've heard him/her say directly to me (not a jibe, mind you) since I started here years ago. Maybe he/she was being good on this here Good Friday. He/she's an atheist and lords it about on occasion and started to do so today. I'm all about the American view of freedom of speech, but his/her diatribes make me want to seek out the folks who can do something about harassment.
I found out recently my traveling partner and I will be hitting the road, not once, but twice this year. Unfortunately, one trip is with the boss, who apparently has groupies. The nice thing is, we can wear high heels if we want, since our show does not require standing for hours...hooray! Should be interesting...if we don't kill him/her before we get on the plane. The good thing: Dahey and I may get to celebrate our anniversary in one city while I'm there. Oh, I can't wait!
Now, it's back to prepping for Easter dinner company. Lots of cleaning, folding, egg dyeing and basket building going on here and some homework thrown in for good measure. Should be fun...stay tuned.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
How not to study
Sitting here with a beer and surfing away at some of my favorite blogs. Darn it, I should study but I just don't want to do it!
Anywho, don't forget this week it's Change of Shift at Dean's Millionaire Nurse blog. Have a look, it's no April Fools' joke.
Back to studying...more to come.
Anywho, don't forget this week it's Change of Shift at Dean's Millionaire Nurse blog. Have a look, it's no April Fools' joke.
Back to studying...more to come.
Nuggets for April 1
No foolin' around...here are some of the latest and greatest items I've encountered on the internet.
Enjoy!
The workplace
Ah, I just love Hotel Rehab...I just go crazy sometimes when I have to deal with the crazies, especially when they're supposed to be coworkers, or even the boss. Being naturally cynical, I thought this article about bosses was somewhat ironic. Thankfully, no one's ever used these examples on me.
Technology
One of these days, we're gonna have that iPod attached to a headband and we'll be able to use thought control or skin to control those gadgets.
Eccentricities
Oh, it must be rough refusing a $1 million prize (from www.usatoday.com) But, then, I would think being a math genius has it's difficult moments.
Just in time for the Easter Bunny
I know why I love the BBC: Chocolate can cut blood pressure. Yum...now back to my dark chocolate!
Enjoy!
The workplace
Ah, I just love Hotel Rehab...I just go crazy sometimes when I have to deal with the crazies, especially when they're supposed to be coworkers, or even the boss. Being naturally cynical, I thought this article about bosses was somewhat ironic. Thankfully, no one's ever used these examples on me.
Technology
One of these days, we're gonna have that iPod attached to a headband and we'll be able to use thought control or skin to control those gadgets.
Eccentricities
Oh, it must be rough refusing a $1 million prize (from www.usatoday.com) But, then, I would think being a math genius has it's difficult moments.
Just in time for the Easter Bunny
I know why I love the BBC: Chocolate can cut blood pressure. Yum...now back to my dark chocolate!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Drama returns...
Ah, yes, it's just so much fun when you get melodramatic patients...and nurses.
One patient came to us after a stay in the ICU due to respiratory issues. Patient had a very productive cough, thanks to some aggressive respiratory treatment.
"That nurse beat me! Don't do that!" was the response when I asked if I could do chest PT when the patient was turned. Nice. Said patient did let me do a quad cough, though.
The Slug was back recently. "Oh," he/she said to a patient, "I had to move all of my relative's heavy wooden furniture. I didn't let anyone take breaks." Guess what...he/she made up for it while at work.
It wasn't a surprise, but one of my favorite charge nurses will be gone in May. S, one of the nice, sweet regulars will be going to an area with less heavy lifting since her back is going out. We will miss her.
I will be so glad to be off this weekend. I get to dye eggs with Bubba for a party. Fun!
Stay tuned...
One patient came to us after a stay in the ICU due to respiratory issues. Patient had a very productive cough, thanks to some aggressive respiratory treatment.
"That nurse beat me! Don't do that!" was the response when I asked if I could do chest PT when the patient was turned. Nice. Said patient did let me do a quad cough, though.
The Slug was back recently. "Oh," he/she said to a patient, "I had to move all of my relative's heavy wooden furniture. I didn't let anyone take breaks." Guess what...he/she made up for it while at work.
It wasn't a surprise, but one of my favorite charge nurses will be gone in May. S, one of the nice, sweet regulars will be going to an area with less heavy lifting since her back is going out. We will miss her.
I will be so glad to be off this weekend. I get to dye eggs with Bubba for a party. Fun!
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
A view from across the pond
Straight from AJN's Off the Charts blog, an interesting viewpoint about the changes in American healthcare. My favorite quote is below:
If ‘socialist health care’ means supporting your family and fellow citizens and ensuring no one dies of undetected cancer or bankrupts themselves having treatment, I’m all for it.
If ‘socialist health care’ means supporting your family and fellow citizens and ensuring no one dies of undetected cancer or bankrupts themselves having treatment, I’m all for it.
'Tis allergy season again!
Oh, the joys of seasonal allergies. I can empathize with my patients, because, yours truly has been fighting the battle of seasonal pollen for as long as I can remember. When the sun shines and the trees are in bloom, some of the people around the Hotel start sneezing.
And if the trees and flowers aren't enough, we have people with other sorts of allergies cropping up--latex and even skin cleaners we use frequently. It makes your day go from happy and smiling to itching and writhing pretty quickly.
On the floor, I got to take care of the same folks, so it's been nice. I take care of them when they're sick and when they're well. No offense, but I prefer the patients on the well side. Some people are just not good sick patients! Mr. Fox just came back to us after he had already visited for a long time. He nearly died. We knew he was feeling better because a) he wasn't in ICU anymore and 2) despite looking worse for wear, he was all smiles because he was back with us. He knows we can take care of him, know his habits, and that he has lazy but not paralyzed bowels as the residents at Washington told him.
When I wasn't working with my buddies, I was working on computers. Thankfully, some of the computer people were working to solve some of our problems, but not all of them worked. We went from many WOWs as they like to call our mobile computers to a bare minimum.
There's still lots of talk about Facebook. It's in the news, and since one of our coworkers is on it frequently, everyone's stewing as to why the boss hasn't noticed. Maybe it has to do with all the extra work the boss has suddenly ended up with due to the new hospital administration and nursing boss.
Reminds me of that cannibal joke Maha has up on her blog. We don't work directly with the administrators, but as a worker bee, I really enjoyed it.
Now it's back to the thrill of waiting for appointments and running errands. More to come...
And if the trees and flowers aren't enough, we have people with other sorts of allergies cropping up--latex and even skin cleaners we use frequently. It makes your day go from happy and smiling to itching and writhing pretty quickly.
On the floor, I got to take care of the same folks, so it's been nice. I take care of them when they're sick and when they're well. No offense, but I prefer the patients on the well side. Some people are just not good sick patients! Mr. Fox just came back to us after he had already visited for a long time. He nearly died. We knew he was feeling better because a) he wasn't in ICU anymore and 2) despite looking worse for wear, he was all smiles because he was back with us. He knows we can take care of him, know his habits, and that he has lazy but not paralyzed bowels as the residents at Washington told him.
When I wasn't working with my buddies, I was working on computers. Thankfully, some of the computer people were working to solve some of our problems, but not all of them worked. We went from many WOWs as they like to call our mobile computers to a bare minimum.
There's still lots of talk about Facebook. It's in the news, and since one of our coworkers is on it frequently, everyone's stewing as to why the boss hasn't noticed. Maybe it has to do with all the extra work the boss has suddenly ended up with due to the new hospital administration and nursing boss.
Reminds me of that cannibal joke Maha has up on her blog. We don't work directly with the administrators, but as a worker bee, I really enjoyed it.
Now it's back to the thrill of waiting for appointments and running errands. More to come...
Monday, March 29, 2010
Feeling artsy....
Well, it's a full moon in honor of Dahey's natal day, and it's full of excitement, just like the weekend was.
First, I got to get artsy figuring out how to lay the Tegaderm dressings I had to put on a couple of my patients with PICC lines. Sometimes it gets crazy when the best place for the PICC is not the best place for the dressing, like on the inside of an arm of a patient who's very contracted.
Next, since it was time to bake the annual hubby natal day cake, I got to work early. Thankfully, no one snuck in and ate all the icing like they did last year. Between kid and dog, I'm not sure who's worse...and yes, I know cake and icing is not good for dogs. Tell the WildDog that for me, would you? Maybe I'll just get him his own, like this dog....
After that, I tried Photoshopping, cropping and beautifying some of our vacation photos. Another artsy thing I like to do even though I'm not the greatest. When in doubt: grayscale hides a lot!
Finally, I got the note from grad school saying my poem was accepted into the Medical Campus student journal. I have never been published in any capacity as a nurse.
Should prove to be an interesting week...stay tuned!
First, I got to get artsy figuring out how to lay the Tegaderm dressings I had to put on a couple of my patients with PICC lines. Sometimes it gets crazy when the best place for the PICC is not the best place for the dressing, like on the inside of an arm of a patient who's very contracted.
Next, since it was time to bake the annual hubby natal day cake, I got to work early. Thankfully, no one snuck in and ate all the icing like they did last year. Between kid and dog, I'm not sure who's worse...and yes, I know cake and icing is not good for dogs. Tell the WildDog that for me, would you? Maybe I'll just get him his own, like this dog....
After that, I tried Photoshopping, cropping and beautifying some of our vacation photos. Another artsy thing I like to do even though I'm not the greatest. When in doubt: grayscale hides a lot!
Finally, I got the note from grad school saying my poem was accepted into the Medical Campus student journal. I have never been published in any capacity as a nurse.
Should prove to be an interesting week...stay tuned!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Stormy weekend? Perhaps not...
So maybe we won't have a stormy moon at our place this weekend...why you ask?
Let me count the ways...
1. We lost some patients. Spring has sprung and they'll do anything to get discharged or go on pass for the weekend. I love that part of spring!
2. The supervisors are not micromanaging at the moment. It helps that a few just got back from vacations in the tropics watching baseball and getting a tan. Want to divert them from looking at your drink at the nurses' station? Just ask them about spring training and who they saw.
3. Some of the drama mamas won't be working this weekend due to illness or vacation. At least they can go nuts at home with their families, and not with us!
I'd say the q-word, but I'm not going to jinx it....stay tuned!
Let me count the ways...
1. We lost some patients. Spring has sprung and they'll do anything to get discharged or go on pass for the weekend. I love that part of spring!
2. The supervisors are not micromanaging at the moment. It helps that a few just got back from vacations in the tropics watching baseball and getting a tan. Want to divert them from looking at your drink at the nurses' station? Just ask them about spring training and who they saw.
3. Some of the drama mamas won't be working this weekend due to illness or vacation. At least they can go nuts at home with their families, and not with us!
I'd say the q-word, but I'm not going to jinx it....stay tuned!
Friday, March 26, 2010
A night out with the big men
No, I'm not going out with Dahey and Bubba, nor am I partaking in that festival of festivals called the NCAA tournament. (although a few of my patients will be glued to the TV). No, I'm working at the Hotel again. People come in, and people go out, and when I get in, we'll see who's left.
Lately, it's been placid, but that tends to change when 1) the moon does (the Storm Moon is coming Monday) and 2) the drama mamas come to work.
I'll just hang with the big men, thank you very much!
Stay tuned!
Lately, it's been placid, but that tends to change when 1) the moon does (the Storm Moon is coming Monday) and 2) the drama mamas come to work.
I'll just hang with the big men, thank you very much!
Stay tuned!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Nuggets for March 24
Time flies when you're having fun. Oh, it's been a barrel of monkeys around the Hotel.
For the first time in a very long time, the booking agents have no one scheduled. Hooray! It may have something to do with the requirement that you be on xx isolation to get in, but...oh well!
Since we're on the animal theme (I almost typed aminal...weird) here are a few selections from my latest meanderings on the 'net.
Enjoy your visit to the zoo!
From the blogosphere....
Man Nurse Diaries just made me think of hippos when I saw his post about HIPAA. You'd be surprised how many people in East Bohunk think HIPAA is HIPPA or HIPPO.
At Your Cervix has some great wildlife photos recently including a bald eagle. Cool!
Maha lost her kitty over at Call Bells make me nervous. So sorry to hear that...18 wow!
They're not animals...
But there's a special species of human in some of these places.
At Serenity Now Hospital, ER doc sees some interesting things in the country in his post Only in the country: drugs don't lie.
Tex has some great photos from Wal-mart over at Weird Nursing Tales. And to think, she probably just needed a candy bar and the gift shop was closed!
For the first time in a very long time, the booking agents have no one scheduled. Hooray! It may have something to do with the requirement that you be on xx isolation to get in, but...oh well!
Since we're on the animal theme (I almost typed aminal...weird) here are a few selections from my latest meanderings on the 'net.
Enjoy your visit to the zoo!
From the blogosphere....
Man Nurse Diaries just made me think of hippos when I saw his post about HIPAA. You'd be surprised how many people in East Bohunk think HIPAA is HIPPA or HIPPO.
At Your Cervix has some great wildlife photos recently including a bald eagle. Cool!
Maha lost her kitty over at Call Bells make me nervous. So sorry to hear that...18 wow!
They're not animals...
But there's a special species of human in some of these places.
At Serenity Now Hospital, ER doc sees some interesting things in the country in his post Only in the country: drugs don't lie.
Tex has some great photos from Wal-mart over at Weird Nursing Tales. And to think, she probably just needed a candy bar and the gift shop was closed!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Everyone knows everyone
Especially when you're from a smaller town.
Some examples (aka 6 degrees of separation):
J, one of our longtime RNs has a sick husband. We're chatting about him and I found out I worked with several docs in hubby's MD's practice. I even know some of their peculiar habits, like riding bicycles to work (one lives very close to the office).
One of our patients came from Saintarama to our rehab unit. People ask about him/her all the time, since patient comes in our place from time to time. (Hi, Zee! ) Patient visits them, but not as much (and the old coworkers are really jealous!)
Our boss is familiar with one of my docs. All I did was mention Dr. G's name and he diagnoses me. Nice. At least, I can keep a few things to myself. Besides, Dr. G. has known me forever. Dr. G. scared the bejeezus out of me recently when he/she asked, "Do you know what?" I was waiting for the "I'm retiring" speech. Thankfully, Dr. G. just told me I've been a patient more than half of my life.
Dr. G. forgot about seeing me in peds...must have just been doing research on those roaches or something.
Dahey had a party recently and invited all the geeks to our house. One has an MD relative, so I asked Dr. Specialist if he/she knew Dr. Miscellany. "Oh, I don't think Dr. Miscellany is (fill in specialty here)."
"Really?", I said, "I thought he/she was."
So what happens. Dr. Specialist's curiosity is piqued, and he/she heads to Google. "Well, I do know Dr. Miscellany was in xx practice. I know who trained him/her at xx university. He/she must be 60. Is your husband that old?" PA sitting next to Dr. Specialist is not amused (PA is 60+ and most of our patients enjoy his cameraderie).
Ahh, I love doctors! (tongue planted firmly in cheek)
Stay tuned...more excitement to come...
Some examples (aka 6 degrees of separation):
J, one of our longtime RNs has a sick husband. We're chatting about him and I found out I worked with several docs in hubby's MD's practice. I even know some of their peculiar habits, like riding bicycles to work (one lives very close to the office).
One of our patients came from Saintarama to our rehab unit. People ask about him/her all the time, since patient comes in our place from time to time. (Hi, Zee! ) Patient visits them, but not as much (and the old coworkers are really jealous!)
Our boss is familiar with one of my docs. All I did was mention Dr. G's name and he diagnoses me. Nice. At least, I can keep a few things to myself. Besides, Dr. G. has known me forever. Dr. G. scared the bejeezus out of me recently when he/she asked, "Do you know what?" I was waiting for the "I'm retiring" speech. Thankfully, Dr. G. just told me I've been a patient more than half of my life.
Dr. G. forgot about seeing me in peds...must have just been doing research on those roaches or something.
Dahey had a party recently and invited all the geeks to our house. One has an MD relative, so I asked Dr. Specialist if he/she knew Dr. Miscellany. "Oh, I don't think Dr. Miscellany is (fill in specialty here)."
"Really?", I said, "I thought he/she was."
So what happens. Dr. Specialist's curiosity is piqued, and he/she heads to Google. "Well, I do know Dr. Miscellany was in xx practice. I know who trained him/her at xx university. He/she must be 60. Is your husband that old?" PA sitting next to Dr. Specialist is not amused (PA is 60+ and most of our patients enjoy his cameraderie).
Ahh, I love doctors! (tongue planted firmly in cheek)
Stay tuned...more excitement to come...
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Spring cleaning
I've made a few changes here and there, especially to blog links. If your blog was there and was inadvertently deleted, let me know.
My verification system: go check the links. No blog anymore = no link.
This is highly variable, as I am still working on my required caffeine intake this morning on my coffee break in between patients.
Wanna link here? Let me know.
My verification system: go check the links. No blog anymore = no link.
This is highly variable, as I am still working on my required caffeine intake this morning on my coffee break in between patients.
Wanna link here? Let me know.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
In case you're wondering...
It's National Colorectal Cancer Awareness month. I'm sure one of my husband's relatives is thrilled...he/she's a GI.
So I sent him/her this post from casesblog. Who can miss a song from Peter Yarrow (yes, the Peter from Peter, Paul and Mary).
WARNING: soapbox ahead...
In my short lifespan and career, I've seen the horrible, heart-breaking effects of colon cancer. Do yourself a favor...if you need one, get one. No, I don't get a commission.
Colonoscopy preps are not pretty (trust me...we do lots at the Hotel) but colon cancer and its after effects aren't so nice, either.
So I sent him/her this post from casesblog. Who can miss a song from Peter Yarrow (yes, the Peter from Peter, Paul and Mary).
WARNING: soapbox ahead...
In my short lifespan and career, I've seen the horrible, heart-breaking effects of colon cancer. Do yourself a favor...if you need one, get one. No, I don't get a commission.
Colonoscopy preps are not pretty (trust me...we do lots at the Hotel) but colon cancer and its after effects aren't so nice, either.
He told us not to do it...
So I'm not going to even LOOK at that class while it's spring break. Thanks Mr. H.!
On to more fun assignments, like laundry, cleaning and lunch with the folks out and about.
Sometimes, I love the weekend!
On to more fun assignments, like laundry, cleaning and lunch with the folks out and about.
Sometimes, I love the weekend!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Top 25? Not too shabby.
Thanks Liza. Got this in my e-mail today. Check out the links below.
Thanks for the nod, and please vote for this blog if you get the chance.
And most of all, have a wonderful weekend, wherever you are! I'm on spring break! No school, no school!
Stay tuned...
My name is Liza and I write for the Lydia’s Uniforms Blog. I’m contacting you because we’re currently holding a contest where our readers can vote on the top nurse blogs. We’ve selected RehabRN to be on our list of the top 25 - congratulations! If you would like to vote for your blog, or have others vote, please visit this link: http://blog.lydiasuniforms.com/blog/lydias-uniforms/0/0/top-nurse-blogs-cast-your-vote. We’ll be announcing the winners during Nurses Week 2010.
Thanks for the nod, and please vote for this blog if you get the chance.
And most of all, have a wonderful weekend, wherever you are! I'm on spring break! No school, no school!
Stay tuned...
Did you know...
Today is Certified Nurses Day? Yours truly got her name in the newsletter.
At least they didn't put my face on a wanted posted at the Hotel.
At least they didn't put my face on a wanted posted at the Hotel.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
You don't have to be Einstein...
To get on over to Nursing Student Chronicles and check out the latest and greatest Change of Shift. It's the best and the brightest of the nursing blog world, so go check it out.
It's so easy, even a robot could do it.
It's so easy, even a robot could do it.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I feel so loved...
The latest installment of Heard on the unit...
"So and so forgot to do all my laundry." Mr. Z.
Well, Mr. Z., So and so is a new nurse, so you need to help train him/her by telling them what you need.
It really is a crisis to deprive an Irishman of his green clothes on this, St. Patty's Day...thankfully, the Hotel has green PJs for our guests. Problem solved.
"I missed you this weekend." Groovy New Nurse #1
GNN#1 missed me because he/she got stuck with the Slug, who probably spent the weekend doing one or all of the following things: 1) talking on the phone, 2) goofing off on Facebook the whole shift, or 3) doing absolutely nothing.
Yes, dear, it does suck to work with the Slug and everybody else who thinks he/she "is a great person, especially at parties." Well, kids, this ain't no party all the time...
"I don't want one of those Port-a-Cath things. They kill people." Mr. Y.
You'd think they would educate the patient on his/her access possibilities, right? Nope. We got to be the lucky stiffs to talk about what exactly a port was and how it will be used.
"Can I sit in the shower and let the water run over my head while you make my bed?" Mr. X.
Mr. X hasn't had a shower in a very long time, so he was happy to oblige while I got things ready for him.
Anything to make you happy....more later
"So and so forgot to do all my laundry." Mr. Z.
Well, Mr. Z., So and so is a new nurse, so you need to help train him/her by telling them what you need.
It really is a crisis to deprive an Irishman of his green clothes on this, St. Patty's Day...thankfully, the Hotel has green PJs for our guests. Problem solved.
"I missed you this weekend." Groovy New Nurse #1
GNN#1 missed me because he/she got stuck with the Slug, who probably spent the weekend doing one or all of the following things: 1) talking on the phone, 2) goofing off on Facebook the whole shift, or 3) doing absolutely nothing.
Yes, dear, it does suck to work with the Slug and everybody else who thinks he/she "is a great person, especially at parties." Well, kids, this ain't no party all the time...
"I don't want one of those Port-a-Cath things. They kill people." Mr. Y.
You'd think they would educate the patient on his/her access possibilities, right? Nope. We got to be the lucky stiffs to talk about what exactly a port was and how it will be used.
"Can I sit in the shower and let the water run over my head while you make my bed?" Mr. X.
Mr. X hasn't had a shower in a very long time, so he was happy to oblige while I got things ready for him.
Anything to make you happy....more later
Happy St. Patrick's Day....
I am Patrick, a sinner, most uncultivated and least of all the faithful and despised in the eyes of many.
Saint Patrick
For all of you wearin' the green, I salute you and raise my glass.
Saint Patrick
For all of you wearin' the green, I salute you and raise my glass.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Nuggets for March 16
Ah, yes, it's eagerly anticipated in our house...the month of March. Birthdays, St. Patrick's Day parties and most of all, basketball. Dahey looks so happy to grab the paper each day to read the latest and follow his faves online. While his teams didn't make it this year, he's eagerly following the fun.
So while yours truly is a basketball widow for a while, I'm surfing the 'net looking for goodies. Here they are in no particular order.
Another reason why I'm glad I'm not in the ER
With Medicaid cuts, doctors and patients drop out (from www.nytimes.com)
What comes first, the chicken or the egg strikes again. Hello, all you folks in the state legislatures, give the ER people a break. Give enough reimbursement to the docs so at least some of the people will stop using the ER as primary care.
From the blogosphere...
Some things aren't what they seem, according to this recent post from Maha at Call Bells Make Me Nervous. No one EVER does that here do they? (fingers crossed and tongue firmly in cheek).
It's short, sweet and to the point. I love it when Tex has a great post like this one called Band-Aid Bunny.
ER stories had a great one recently about the guy who just has to go to the bris. Could be a damper if he does. I'm with you, doc!
NYC RN retells his muffin top story, and it's not taking place at Panera Bread, or your favorite bakery, either.
In the news
Sure the 2010 Winter Olympic Games may be over, but check out the 2010 Paralympics for some great coverage of winter sports for people in wheelchairs that is running in Vancouver from March 12 to March 21.
It's no urban legend
Some urologists are marketing vasectomies during March Madness. Doesn't hurt to stay home and watch TV while something good is on TV, now, does it?
Happy March Madness to all and to all a good night!
So while yours truly is a basketball widow for a while, I'm surfing the 'net looking for goodies. Here they are in no particular order.
Another reason why I'm glad I'm not in the ER
With Medicaid cuts, doctors and patients drop out (from www.nytimes.com)
What comes first, the chicken or the egg strikes again. Hello, all you folks in the state legislatures, give the ER people a break. Give enough reimbursement to the docs so at least some of the people will stop using the ER as primary care.
From the blogosphere...
Some things aren't what they seem, according to this recent post from Maha at Call Bells Make Me Nervous. No one EVER does that here do they? (fingers crossed and tongue firmly in cheek).
It's short, sweet and to the point. I love it when Tex has a great post like this one called Band-Aid Bunny.
ER stories had a great one recently about the guy who just has to go to the bris. Could be a damper if he does. I'm with you, doc!
NYC RN retells his muffin top story, and it's not taking place at Panera Bread, or your favorite bakery, either.
In the news
Sure the 2010 Winter Olympic Games may be over, but check out the 2010 Paralympics for some great coverage of winter sports for people in wheelchairs that is running in Vancouver from March 12 to March 21.
It's no urban legend
Some urologists are marketing vasectomies during March Madness. Doesn't hurt to stay home and watch TV while something good is on TV, now, does it?
Happy March Madness to all and to all a good night!
Back to the old grind...
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. And oh, what a time it was!
It was a trip with planes, trains and automobiles, with a boat here and other transportation there thrown in for a little excitement. Over hill and dale, by land and by sea, we came and we saw the shows and some wild characters, even with a kid whose stomach is not the best traveler. (Thankfully, that was a one-time thing).
And when we weren't running around being tourists, we ate interesting food and enjoyed the beautiful weather and the splendid vistas.
Now it's back to work...more to come.
It was a trip with planes, trains and automobiles, with a boat here and other transportation there thrown in for a little excitement. Over hill and dale, by land and by sea, we came and we saw the shows and some wild characters, even with a kid whose stomach is not the best traveler. (Thankfully, that was a one-time thing).
And when we weren't running around being tourists, we ate interesting food and enjoyed the beautiful weather and the splendid vistas.
Now it's back to work...more to come.
Friday, March 12, 2010
All ready...
The puppy is curled up at my feet. His sitter is on the way, and she's gonna spoil him.
The bags are packed.
The paperwork is complete.
In mere moments, we'll be on our way.
It may only be a couple of days, but it's so nice to get away!
The bags are packed.
The paperwork is complete.
In mere moments, we'll be on our way.
It may only be a couple of days, but it's so nice to get away!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Nuggets for March 11
Oh, there's been so many items of note lately, I can't believe it.
Social networking (a la Facebook)
It's been a big hairy deal at our place, since one of our coworkers was disciplined for Facebook use.
Think your thoughts on Facebook are private? Think again. In fact, some insurance companies want access to your Facebook account. according to an article on ZDnet recently.
Misuse of social networking sites may have ethical implications according to this ONS article.
If you're not sure what to do and not to do on Facebook, check out this article from
www.pcworld.com.
Preaching to the choir
Nurses spend most of their time on paperwork according to a recent study from Healthcare IT News.
You want what?
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this story on Reuters tonight: Netherlands: Nurses' union: care does not include sex.
Oh. My. Freaking. Heavens. (clutching chest). Makes me want to go back to karate class again!
Get healthy!
You gotta love those multipurpose exercises...I sure do.
Social networking (a la Facebook)
It's been a big hairy deal at our place, since one of our coworkers was disciplined for Facebook use.
Think your thoughts on Facebook are private? Think again. In fact, some insurance companies want access to your Facebook account. according to an article on ZDnet recently.
Misuse of social networking sites may have ethical implications according to this ONS article.
If you're not sure what to do and not to do on Facebook, check out this article from
www.pcworld.com.
Preaching to the choir
Nurses spend most of their time on paperwork according to a recent study from Healthcare IT News.
You want what?
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this story on Reuters tonight: Netherlands: Nurses' union: care does not include sex.
Oh. My. Freaking. Heavens. (clutching chest). Makes me want to go back to karate class again!
Get healthy!
You gotta love those multipurpose exercises...I sure do.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Pretty soon...
I'm gonna shake the dust of this crummy little town off my feet*...and get going.
I love the weekend!
*from It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
I love the weekend!
*from It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Happy, happy
Paper is done, complete, finito! Amen! I have never felt such joy for a paper to be over. This one could have easily been made into a book with the amount of material we had.
My department got a few awards, according to my buddy who read me the e-mail since I was out of the Hotel today. Joy spread around and shared is a good thing. A few of us will even get certificates and other goodies. It's nice to be recognized once in a while, even if it's by the bureaucrats.
People are going home today. Some I'll miss, some...well, they are stories for another day.
Back to work...more to come.
My department got a few awards, according to my buddy who read me the e-mail since I was out of the Hotel today. Joy spread around and shared is a good thing. A few of us will even get certificates and other goodies. It's nice to be recognized once in a while, even if it's by the bureaucrats.
People are going home today. Some I'll miss, some...well, they are stories for another day.
Back to work...more to come.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Lunchtime langor
I know it's Monday, it's lunch time and I still feel like I'm stuck in the mud!
Thankfully, my classmate P. has got the bases covered on our group paper. Otherwise, I might commit murder and TYPE IN ALL CAPS just to let off steam.
Back to my irregularly scheduled lunch...
Thankfully, my classmate P. has got the bases covered on our group paper. Otherwise, I might commit murder and TYPE IN ALL CAPS just to let off steam.
Back to my irregularly scheduled lunch...
Saturday, March 6, 2010
I'm gettin' old...
And I may be getting creaky from flinging people around, but this here nurse ran a darned good race and lived to tell about it.
Or so that computer chip on my shoe said...
Now I'm gonna go raise a glass to all of you who are still at work, doing the heave ho.
This (insert your beverage of choice)'s for you!
Or so that computer chip on my shoe said...
Now I'm gonna go raise a glass to all of you who are still at work, doing the heave ho.
This (insert your beverage of choice)'s for you!
Heard on the unit
A few of the more interesting things in our neck of the woods.
"He's too heavy." (multiple people)
We're getting more and more bariatric patients at the Hotel. Some people are getting so irate at staff meetings that they are refusing to move some people. We have equipment, but no one wants to help each other when people have to get up for whatever reason.
I think we need some team building...fast!
"Get out of here you b&(*h" Mr. Demented to nurse manager and male staff
At least, we girls, don't have to be the only ones to put up with inappropriate behavior from this one.
"I'm going to go home and grill a steak." Mr. H.
Mr. H. has been with us for nearly a year. Spring is coming. He's having food fantasies and swapping so many grilling stories with people that he's making me hungry. He should be good to go in the next couple of days.
"I can't believe we didn't think of that sooner." Charge M.
M. our charge nurse has been around for a very long time. We used a rare, side entry maneuver to get a patient into his/her wheelchair without issue after one of our new nurses brought it up. We haven't used it in a long time, so that's probably why we forgot it, but so did the therapists.
"He's too heavy." (multiple people)
We're getting more and more bariatric patients at the Hotel. Some people are getting so irate at staff meetings that they are refusing to move some people. We have equipment, but no one wants to help each other when people have to get up for whatever reason.
I think we need some team building...fast!
"Get out of here you b&(*h" Mr. Demented to nurse manager and male staff
At least, we girls, don't have to be the only ones to put up with inappropriate behavior from this one.
"I'm going to go home and grill a steak." Mr. H.
Mr. H. has been with us for nearly a year. Spring is coming. He's having food fantasies and swapping so many grilling stories with people that he's making me hungry. He should be good to go in the next couple of days.
"I can't believe we didn't think of that sooner." Charge M.
M. our charge nurse has been around for a very long time. We used a rare, side entry maneuver to get a patient into his/her wheelchair without issue after one of our new nurses brought it up. We haven't used it in a long time, so that's probably why we forgot it, but so did the therapists.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Change of Shift
The latest edition of Change of Shift is now up at mamatrauma.
Go check it out...one of my posts actually made it in. Thankyou...thankyou verrah much!
Go check it out...one of my posts actually made it in. Thankyou...thankyou verrah much!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Crusin' into the weekend
Even though, I will be busy doing homework this weekend, I am looking forward to it. My day was a lot of heavy lifting today. Thankfully, I used a technique one of our newer nurses pointed out to us the other day, and I still can't recall why we hadn't thought of it in the first place. (We have used it before!) Life is so much easier, when you can get people in and out of their wheelchairs simply.
Mr. X., our patient from a recent post has gotten more not so good news. His surgery has become more complicated. He's got a lot more thinking to do, because it will be life-altering.
I have a moderate to large manual I have to read by the weekend.
Stay tuned for more updates....
Mr. X., our patient from a recent post has gotten more not so good news. His surgery has become more complicated. He's got a lot more thinking to do, because it will be life-altering.
I have a moderate to large manual I have to read by the weekend.
Stay tuned for more updates....
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
What's next? Beer?
Had a good chuckle over the latest, beverage-inspired political group:
Coffee Party, With a Taste for Civic Participation from www.nytimes.com
Coffee Party, With a Taste for Civic Participation from www.nytimes.com
Monday, March 1, 2010
So glad it's Monday...
And the crazy full moon weekend is over. Being in charge ain't all it's cracked up to be!
My shift in the hot seat included:
1. Assigning all the patients. The Slug was in charge before me on the previous shifts, and lo and behold, one patient went unassigned. Granted, said patient is easy to care for (little to do on our shift) but it really looks bad if you forget to give him/her a nurse.
2. Avoiding mutiny in the ranks. Another installment of "he said, she said, I wanted OT and didn't get it." My advice: communicate. Said nurses could have and would have avoided the whole drama thing if they just would have talked to the people they needed to.
No, it's just too easy to be passive aggressive and yell at your co-workers...
3. Dealing with a patient who thought chest pain is no big deal. The joy of all the tests, time spent on the phone, with the on-call doc, with the patient's regular doc, the supervisor, the pharmacy. I really miss my phone headset on those days.
4. Blood pressure issues and a patient who doesn't want to go home. He/she is mad at the world and I was the lucky target. Finally, we got everything under control...at least for the oncoming shift.
And blissfully, every single person showed up before I was ready to leave the building, so I was not forced to stay and work a double. I am always so, so happy to go home.
More to come...
My shift in the hot seat included:
1. Assigning all the patients. The Slug was in charge before me on the previous shifts, and lo and behold, one patient went unassigned. Granted, said patient is easy to care for (little to do on our shift) but it really looks bad if you forget to give him/her a nurse.
2. Avoiding mutiny in the ranks. Another installment of "he said, she said, I wanted OT and didn't get it." My advice: communicate. Said nurses could have and would have avoided the whole drama thing if they just would have talked to the people they needed to.
No, it's just too easy to be passive aggressive and yell at your co-workers...
3. Dealing with a patient who thought chest pain is no big deal. The joy of all the tests, time spent on the phone, with the on-call doc, with the patient's regular doc, the supervisor, the pharmacy. I really miss my phone headset on those days.
4. Blood pressure issues and a patient who doesn't want to go home. He/she is mad at the world and I was the lucky target. Finally, we got everything under control...at least for the oncoming shift.
And blissfully, every single person showed up before I was ready to leave the building, so I was not forced to stay and work a double. I am always so, so happy to go home.
More to come...
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Charge it, baby!
I just love being in charge...the authority, the paperwork, the personal interaction with families and staff.
Now if it really were as great as this, I'd have more time to post, wouldn't I?
Stay tuned for more excitement....
Now if it really were as great as this, I'd have more time to post, wouldn't I?
Stay tuned for more excitement....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)