Sunday Stealing, but close. Rules below. Thanks Anonymous RN for this one...and for that blog referral, too.
Here are the rules: Bold the things you’ve done and post on your blog!
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea.
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing – indoor
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been a passenger on a motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Got a tattoo
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Swimmingly
While I'm not lounging at the pool today, I'm having a good day. Going from one task to another in between the excitement that is work.
School started and getting lots of inspiration from here, there and everywhere. Traveling partner and I are busy planning our next trip. Can't wait to escape the Hotel again. Just wish we weren't the Rodney Dangerfields of the unit in some ways.
Where are the Click and Clack boys to dope slap a few people when we need them?
More to come...stay tuned.
School started and getting lots of inspiration from here, there and everywhere. Traveling partner and I are busy planning our next trip. Can't wait to escape the Hotel again. Just wish we weren't the Rodney Dangerfields of the unit in some ways.
Where are the Click and Clack boys to dope slap a few people when we need them?
More to come...stay tuned.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A different atmosphere
One of the nurses I work with mentioned it is a different environment when certain people we work with don't come to work. She is absolutely correct.
Imagine my world for a moment. NOTE: this illustration below has several grains of truth and will be distorted enough to protect both the innocent and the guilty.
First, we have the "lunch ladies". These nurses remind you of the lunch ladies from grade school. They often wear matching uniforms and if they had them, they'd have those hairnets on, too. They're perfectionists and they like to run various aspects of the shift a certain way (as if they were still in their kitchens) and you'd better like it, or feel their wrath. The wrath, you ask? Why they whisper a lot, which irritates the charge nurse. They bugged me at first, because I really got tired of their furtive glances, then the whisper, whisper that goes on at the other end of the report area, but I got used to it. Later, they may tell me who they're whispering about, and I ask them to talk to that person. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.
Next, we have the GI Joes. GI Joe #1 takes care of his patients, does his stuff and is exemplary. He wants a long career and is working to become an RN one day, one class at a time.
GI Joe #2 has been around forever, most likely has untreated PTSD and another psych disorder or two, and can be both a good worker and an absolute nightmare. This changes from moment to moment, depending on who took the last cup of coffee from the nurses' station pot, to whether his favorite sports team is winning, to whether Mr. X. just rang his call light and asked him for ice. Sometimes this merry-go-round is exhausting. We always hope he takes the meds he has before coming to work.
Finally, we have the slacker brigade. Often, they have slacking competitions to see who can do less work. The Slug leads the brigade. He/she makes an effort to get as many phone calls as possible on a shift, start jobs that he/she doesn't finish (it's easier that way), and takes long lunch breaks. Since he/she's getting all those phone calls, he/she's always on the unit, but don't expect much. A phone call or Facebook game could be missed while some actual work gets done.
A couple of our newer nurses have also joined the slacker brigade. Their mission: stay in close contact with latest boyfriend of the moment by escaping from the unit to see boyfriend(s) on the parking lot, in full view of many of their patients, staff and visitors, or just sit in a very far off location and take phone calls, send text messages and update your status on Facebook out of paging distance. One has even made boundary crossing his/her favorite sport, by cruising through certain patients' rooms and asking them to get him/her snacks/treats/crafts whenever he/she can.
For me....I try to stay invisible. If I'm invisible, I'm less of a target. Some days are more on target than others. I'm still learning to cope with them. I like taking care of my patients and when I take care of them, they don't call me as much. When they do, I take care of their issues right away.
Finally, I always follow my mentor G's advice: start the shift by saying to yourself, "This is going to be a good day/evening/night." If you say it enough, believe it, and go out and act like it will, it will. Even if it turns into the night from Hell, keep reminding yourself. It can make things better for you and your coworkers. If all else fails, remember, this shift too, will pass and let it go once you are gone.
Imagine my world for a moment. NOTE: this illustration below has several grains of truth and will be distorted enough to protect both the innocent and the guilty.
First, we have the "lunch ladies". These nurses remind you of the lunch ladies from grade school. They often wear matching uniforms and if they had them, they'd have those hairnets on, too. They're perfectionists and they like to run various aspects of the shift a certain way (as if they were still in their kitchens) and you'd better like it, or feel their wrath. The wrath, you ask? Why they whisper a lot, which irritates the charge nurse. They bugged me at first, because I really got tired of their furtive glances, then the whisper, whisper that goes on at the other end of the report area, but I got used to it. Later, they may tell me who they're whispering about, and I ask them to talk to that person. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.
Next, we have the GI Joes. GI Joe #1 takes care of his patients, does his stuff and is exemplary. He wants a long career and is working to become an RN one day, one class at a time.
GI Joe #2 has been around forever, most likely has untreated PTSD and another psych disorder or two, and can be both a good worker and an absolute nightmare. This changes from moment to moment, depending on who took the last cup of coffee from the nurses' station pot, to whether his favorite sports team is winning, to whether Mr. X. just rang his call light and asked him for ice. Sometimes this merry-go-round is exhausting. We always hope he takes the meds he has before coming to work.
Finally, we have the slacker brigade. Often, they have slacking competitions to see who can do less work. The Slug leads the brigade. He/she makes an effort to get as many phone calls as possible on a shift, start jobs that he/she doesn't finish (it's easier that way), and takes long lunch breaks. Since he/she's getting all those phone calls, he/she's always on the unit, but don't expect much. A phone call or Facebook game could be missed while some actual work gets done.
A couple of our newer nurses have also joined the slacker brigade. Their mission: stay in close contact with latest boyfriend of the moment by escaping from the unit to see boyfriend(s) on the parking lot, in full view of many of their patients, staff and visitors, or just sit in a very far off location and take phone calls, send text messages and update your status on Facebook out of paging distance. One has even made boundary crossing his/her favorite sport, by cruising through certain patients' rooms and asking them to get him/her snacks/treats/crafts whenever he/she can.
For me....I try to stay invisible. If I'm invisible, I'm less of a target. Some days are more on target than others. I'm still learning to cope with them. I like taking care of my patients and when I take care of them, they don't call me as much. When they do, I take care of their issues right away.
Finally, I always follow my mentor G's advice: start the shift by saying to yourself, "This is going to be a good day/evening/night." If you say it enough, believe it, and go out and act like it will, it will. Even if it turns into the night from Hell, keep reminding yourself. It can make things better for you and your coworkers. If all else fails, remember, this shift too, will pass and let it go once you are gone.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Full moon falling
Yes, it's not a full moon or even a double moon anymore, but don't tell our patients that. They think it still is, reality or not.
We have a couple of guys, Oscar and Felix, who are roommates. Oscar gets out everyday since he has a standing appointment. Since he gets up, Felix thinks he should, too. Lo and behold, I get to work and the duo is in our patient lounge area watching the big screen TV. Both ask if I'm their nurse. Nope. Much grumbling ensues. Oscar and Felix go to the charge nurse and ask if they can have a new nurse. Why? Because they compare us when we're not in the room and they have their "favorites". Their assigned nurse was not their favorite, alas, the charge nurse wouldn't budge, and Oscar and Felix had to deal with their nurse.
My people were good. Pepsi Man (because he always gets a case when his family comes) finally realized he needs to drink more water. Pepsi Man got lots of encouragement, so forcing fluids was a breeze. My other patient, Mr. Go (because he's always going somewhere) is happy about going on the latest out trip. Won't be long before we only see him when he comes to visit.
From the "Thank goodness we don't have too many residents like this file", Mr. S. told me about his experience getting a PICC line at one of our other network hospitals, which happens to have lots of residents. Mr. S. told me a resident, showing off to some of the nurses on his/her dressing change ability, dislodged his PICC so far, that he required a new one. Yes, July 1 really wasn't that long ago, and here's proof!
Stay tuned...there's always excitement around every bend at the Hotel.
We have a couple of guys, Oscar and Felix, who are roommates. Oscar gets out everyday since he has a standing appointment. Since he gets up, Felix thinks he should, too. Lo and behold, I get to work and the duo is in our patient lounge area watching the big screen TV. Both ask if I'm their nurse. Nope. Much grumbling ensues. Oscar and Felix go to the charge nurse and ask if they can have a new nurse. Why? Because they compare us when we're not in the room and they have their "favorites". Their assigned nurse was not their favorite, alas, the charge nurse wouldn't budge, and Oscar and Felix had to deal with their nurse.
My people were good. Pepsi Man (because he always gets a case when his family comes) finally realized he needs to drink more water. Pepsi Man got lots of encouragement, so forcing fluids was a breeze. My other patient, Mr. Go (because he's always going somewhere) is happy about going on the latest out trip. Won't be long before we only see him when he comes to visit.
From the "Thank goodness we don't have too many residents like this file", Mr. S. told me about his experience getting a PICC line at one of our other network hospitals, which happens to have lots of residents. Mr. S. told me a resident, showing off to some of the nurses on his/her dressing change ability, dislodged his PICC so far, that he required a new one. Yes, July 1 really wasn't that long ago, and here's proof!
Stay tuned...there's always excitement around every bend at the Hotel.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
RehabRN book club
After, I thought about working for an idiot recently I went searching for a few business books and grabbed these two:
The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One that Isn't by Robert I. Patton.
This is a nice, little book. If you read quickly, you'll breeze through it in an afternoon lounging. This book piqued my interest since the author was an academic for a while who wrote an article about workplace assholes for a large, conservative business periodical in which they would not use the A-word in the title. I found this quaint and hysterical at the same time.
The book has lots of facts, no figures, but a great story line we can all enjoy: they're out there, so learn to live with them (or learn to make them go away) or get out.
I also got Mobbing: Emotional Abuse in the American Workplace by Davenport, Schwartz and Elliott. It's also a shorter book, so I plan on reading that before I start my classes again and it's grad school nursing every time I want to read something.
More later, so stay tuned.
The No Asshole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One that Isn't by Robert I. Patton.
This is a nice, little book. If you read quickly, you'll breeze through it in an afternoon lounging. This book piqued my interest since the author was an academic for a while who wrote an article about workplace assholes for a large, conservative business periodical in which they would not use the A-word in the title. I found this quaint and hysterical at the same time.
The book has lots of facts, no figures, but a great story line we can all enjoy: they're out there, so learn to live with them (or learn to make them go away) or get out.
I also got Mobbing: Emotional Abuse in the American Workplace by Davenport, Schwartz and Elliott. It's also a shorter book, so I plan on reading that before I start my classes again and it's grad school nursing every time I want to read something.
More later, so stay tuned.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
A great end of day
So when you can't reach the people you need to via phone, just send e-mail...again and again. That was part of my day today. We'll see tomorrow if anyone responds.
It was a beautiful day here, and I was so glad I could escape for a few minutes into the sunshine. The humidity has disappeared for the moment and the afternoon was glorious.
Reminds me of those lazy days in college reading my books under a sycamore tree as the wind blew by...ahh! This time was even better at a table with a good book and a coffee.
More fun tomorrow...stay tuned!
It was a beautiful day here, and I was so glad I could escape for a few minutes into the sunshine. The humidity has disappeared for the moment and the afternoon was glorious.
Reminds me of those lazy days in college reading my books under a sycamore tree as the wind blew by...ahh! This time was even better at a table with a good book and a coffee.
More fun tomorrow...stay tuned!
Nurse vs. fax machine
Our education coordinator has access to all the tools allowing him/her to send us documents we can forward via e-mail.
So what does he/she do? Require us to fax him/her something...on a machine that is constantly busy.
Alas, this is my battle until report starts...fun!
So what does he/she do? Require us to fax him/her something...on a machine that is constantly busy.
Alas, this is my battle until report starts...fun!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
It's been one (or more) of those days...
Sometimes I have those days. First, it wasn't that busy, it was a "hurry up and wait" kind of day. I did things really slowly considering the low census. The specialists were late, even though their meetings were short. My patient meandered with care, since time doesn't fly when you're on bedrest.
I also got to admit a patient with an unusual pet and acquaint one of our MDs with some new acronyms related to new groups of patients. I know the doc understands enough, but sometimes there is a lot of generational dissonance when we talk to the docs. It makes a difference when patients are in the same generation as you are. I feel as if I'm a translator to the doctors who have children my age.
Finally, one of our patients made me laugh. On his way to the dentist, he said, "My dentures are so old..guess when they were made?" I had no idea and I told him so. Turns out I'm as old as his dentures.
I was so tired and ready to take my real teeth home once the end of the day arrived.
Stay tuned...
I also got to admit a patient with an unusual pet and acquaint one of our MDs with some new acronyms related to new groups of patients. I know the doc understands enough, but sometimes there is a lot of generational dissonance when we talk to the docs. It makes a difference when patients are in the same generation as you are. I feel as if I'm a translator to the doctors who have children my age.
Finally, one of our patients made me laugh. On his way to the dentist, he said, "My dentures are so old..guess when they were made?" I had no idea and I told him so. Turns out I'm as old as his dentures.
I was so tired and ready to take my real teeth home once the end of the day arrived.
Stay tuned...
Monday, August 23, 2010
Can I just have one more thing?
One more thing to give me a headache
My sick brother repeating over and over and over that he wants to come home every time I go visit. I need a Tylenol stat, please, with a coffee chaser!
One more thing to make my feet hurt
Dodging wheelchairs and dodging the wheel that fell off a guy's wheelchair as I was walking out the door today. We got it back on (with some assistance from two bystanders). Oh, "that's where that screw came from!" Mr. X assured me that the screw would be put in at home, since he knew exactly where it was.
One more thing that makes me go "Hmm..."
Why, oh why, do the docs tell Patient X, he/she can be up "as tolerated" and never bother to write the order? I document it over and over and over again, in my notes, of course, but my colleagues on other shifts don't really believe it if they don't see an order. And the way some of our docs act some days, it doesn't surprise me.
One more office visit for Bubba's strep throat...
And I will have spent over $100 for treatment and visits. Now if they made the kids' copay like last year, the antibiotic would have been the most expensive thing lately. Nothing like cost sharing. Note to self: save more in flexible spending account next year!
One more this...
And one more that. I'm not a big lemon fan, but these are the bomb as J. one of our nurses says. The ginger ones aren't bad, either.
And finally, one more that...
A nice cool glass of limeade, and I'm off to bed.
Stay tuned. Something's always happening around the Hotel...
My sick brother repeating over and over and over that he wants to come home every time I go visit. I need a Tylenol stat, please, with a coffee chaser!
One more thing to make my feet hurt
Dodging wheelchairs and dodging the wheel that fell off a guy's wheelchair as I was walking out the door today. We got it back on (with some assistance from two bystanders). Oh, "that's where that screw came from!" Mr. X assured me that the screw would be put in at home, since he knew exactly where it was.
One more thing that makes me go "Hmm..."
Why, oh why, do the docs tell Patient X, he/she can be up "as tolerated" and never bother to write the order? I document it over and over and over again, in my notes, of course, but my colleagues on other shifts don't really believe it if they don't see an order. And the way some of our docs act some days, it doesn't surprise me.
One more office visit for Bubba's strep throat...
And I will have spent over $100 for treatment and visits. Now if they made the kids' copay like last year, the antibiotic would have been the most expensive thing lately. Nothing like cost sharing. Note to self: save more in flexible spending account next year!
One more this...
And one more that. I'm not a big lemon fan, but these are the bomb as J. one of our nurses says. The ginger ones aren't bad, either.
And finally, one more that...
A nice cool glass of limeade, and I'm off to bed.
Stay tuned. Something's always happening around the Hotel...
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Dreaming
I know you can find loads of things online about dream interpretation, but I just had one of those falling dreams.
Funny thing was...it wasn't me falling, but a patient, from Trendelenburg, out of bed, into a chasm behind the bed I couldn't see. And no, I couldn't stop him from falling into the hole either and creating a sentinel event.
Thank goodness it's the weekend. I need a break!
More to come...stay tuned.
Funny thing was...it wasn't me falling, but a patient, from Trendelenburg, out of bed, into a chasm behind the bed I couldn't see. And no, I couldn't stop him from falling into the hole either and creating a sentinel event.
Thank goodness it's the weekend. I need a break!
More to come...stay tuned.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Me and Angelina Jolie
Now for something completely different...
I nearly coughed my coffee all over my laptop on this latest "news". I am SO glad I now have something in common with Angie and this other starlet.
What's up with Jen and Angelina? (from shine at Yahoo!)
P.S. If you have those on our unit, and crap in the arms, we'd go straight there for IVs and blood draws.
I nearly coughed my coffee all over my laptop on this latest "news". I am SO glad I now have something in common with Angie and this other starlet.
What's up with Jen and Angelina? (from shine at Yahoo!)
P.S. If you have those on our unit, and crap in the arms, we'd go straight there for IVs and blood draws.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Weirdness of late
The grumpy assed patients who f-bomb the nurses, the techs, and the doctors, are happy. Why? A little party, some PT and some good ol' fashioned diazepam (to keep those spasms in check). Mr. Grumpy (no relation to the good Doctor), my patient of late was a little darling once I got him set up with all his pills before therapy. He was so happy, he promptly went to sleep once I put him in bed.
My boss, although irritated that he/she had to come back to work was very understanding when I told him I had to go to the hospital with my brother. Lots and lots of med issues, but hopefully, they'll all be straightened out.
The full moon's not quite here, but you'd think it was. Stay tuned...
My boss, although irritated that he/she had to come back to work was very understanding when I told him I had to go to the hospital with my brother. Lots and lots of med issues, but hopefully, they'll all be straightened out.
The full moon's not quite here, but you'd think it was. Stay tuned...
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Yes, I work for an idiot
Signs that you may work for an idiot:
1. No matter how many times you tell him/her that you did something they ask if you did it. (I even sent e-mails for a paper trail)
2. You show the boss the product he/she was looking for and they request changes, saying, "Well, my boss won't take it if it's not black/white or navy/white with yellow titles." His/her boss must be an opthamologist.
Don't worry about content, just contrast. Okay....
3. Your boss isn't sure about a presentation you've sweated blood over for months because he/she thinks too many nurses might show up.
Hmm...the nurses were invited...remember? And I just happen to be ONE of those nurses!
More to come...
1. No matter how many times you tell him/her that you did something they ask if you did it. (I even sent e-mails for a paper trail)
2. You show the boss the product he/she was looking for and they request changes, saying, "Well, my boss won't take it if it's not black/white or navy/white with yellow titles." His/her boss must be an opthamologist.
Don't worry about content, just contrast. Okay....
3. Your boss isn't sure about a presentation you've sweated blood over for months because he/she thinks too many nurses might show up.
Hmm...the nurses were invited...remember? And I just happen to be ONE of those nurses!
More to come...
Monday, August 16, 2010
By way of Grumpy
Something only a mother (or any parent really) can love at the start of the school year, from mothershandbook.net
The Mother's (2nd annual) 12 step Back to school program
BTW Grumpy, our DragonMaster (a patient who's been a longtime Dragon user) loved your latest Dragonisms.
The Mother's (2nd annual) 12 step Back to school program
BTW Grumpy, our DragonMaster (a patient who's been a longtime Dragon user) loved your latest Dragonisms.
One more day...
Nothing like a Monday. Tired and hungry (me) and a sick kid. School starts this week for Bubba.
The fun will never end.
The fun will never end.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Uniform uniforms?
In yet another effort to stifle the morale at ye old Hotel Rehab, the management has decided we would just "look better" if we all wore standard uniforms. Rumor has it we'll get light blue tops and blue pants.
The best suggestion was to go back to "nursing whites because they're so much more professional". Yuck! I work with poop and other bodily fluids a lot on some shifts (and I may get wet in a shower--or may sweat due to the heat and humidity on our unit) and I really don't want to see it if it does end up on my scrubs.
And who might have thought this was a great idea? It was the "Nursing Standards" committee, which consists of nurses who no longer work the floor anymore. Our representative did work the floor, until he/she got the office and is rarely seen anywhere near the unit, unless there are donuts or other free food.
Now if they do like the ORs and build a locker room for us and allow us to change at work, I might go for it. I doubt they'd go for it...I work the floor. What could I know?
The best suggestion was to go back to "nursing whites because they're so much more professional". Yuck! I work with poop and other bodily fluids a lot on some shifts (and I may get wet in a shower--or may sweat due to the heat and humidity on our unit) and I really don't want to see it if it does end up on my scrubs.
And who might have thought this was a great idea? It was the "Nursing Standards" committee, which consists of nurses who no longer work the floor anymore. Our representative did work the floor, until he/she got the office and is rarely seen anywhere near the unit, unless there are donuts or other free food.
Now if they do like the ORs and build a locker room for us and allow us to change at work, I might go for it. I doubt they'd go for it...I work the floor. What could I know?
Saturday, August 14, 2010
The changing tides
Have you ever had a day, where when you arrived you wanted to leave? That was one of my shifts recently. We had a quiet shift going on, but the mood was just not right. Lots of tension in the air, and with the rising heat and humidity, this was not good.
My favorite charge nurse (FCN) had returned after a long vacation, sunburnt but happy. She was frazzled, though. I know she is when she starts saying, "Can't do xx without an order" It made me want to ask her what was going on, since I know quite well that nursing judgment does not require an order. I also know which doctors will appreciate my use of nursing judgment and which (one) will not.
As the night went on, however, things went well. Call lights were answered promptly, things got done and (gasp!) staff had time to take breaks to eat and read and relax a bit. Those moments helped a lot.
FCN was feeling good, and with a few good cups of coffee in a quiet place, in a much better mood.
So by the time the shift ended, things were really peaceful. We walked out as the next shift came on. And hopefully, the tides lapped quietly in the night, and left our overnight friends with a shift as good as ours.
More to come...
My favorite charge nurse (FCN) had returned after a long vacation, sunburnt but happy. She was frazzled, though. I know she is when she starts saying, "Can't do xx without an order" It made me want to ask her what was going on, since I know quite well that nursing judgment does not require an order. I also know which doctors will appreciate my use of nursing judgment and which (one) will not.
As the night went on, however, things went well. Call lights were answered promptly, things got done and (gasp!) staff had time to take breaks to eat and read and relax a bit. Those moments helped a lot.
FCN was feeling good, and with a few good cups of coffee in a quiet place, in a much better mood.
So by the time the shift ended, things were really peaceful. We walked out as the next shift came on. And hopefully, the tides lapped quietly in the night, and left our overnight friends with a shift as good as ours.
More to come...
Jo says it best
In this post about "copying".
BTW I will not hunt you down and mete out my own form of justice, but I do believe you will get yours sooner or later.Yes, do believe in an afterlife.
Read and enjoy, and if you'd like to repost, send an e-mail as a courtesy please.
As always, thanks for visiting,
RehabRN
BTW I will not hunt you down and mete out my own form of justice, but I do believe you will get yours sooner or later.Yes, do believe in an afterlife.
Read and enjoy, and if you'd like to repost, send an e-mail as a courtesy please.
As always, thanks for visiting,
RehabRN
Friday, August 13, 2010
Chew and digest
Sometimes, if I get a free moment, I actually enjoy my lunch. The other day I saw this article at the New York Times website about nurses and their lunch hours. I loved this quote:
"Workers cannot just drop patient care when the lunch hour arrives. We are not like an assembly line, which can shut down at lunchtime, or a bank, where people work 9 to 5.”
This is the understatement of the year. Some days, my lunch hours are a mess, especially on the day shift. So many things are crammed into the day shift for the convenience of outside groups, that nursing inevitably is one group that often bears the brunt of the cramming. Take services for example. In our outpost hospital, all of the services, you'd expect to have 24/7 (i.e. radiology, lab, pharmacy, etc.) are not 24/7. No, these groups have daytime hours at Madison, and when it's time for them to go home, they go home and the main hospital, Washington, picks up the slack on certain things, like lab and pharmacy. Emergent stuff has to be sent to an ER that's often on diversion, so most of the time we know that Saint Suburban down the street will get our people.
Interruptions are also key. For some strange reason, no one wants to watch anyone else's people while we're at lunch. Sure the boss assigns lunch times, but he/she still hasn't figured out that if you have a person to feed at noon and dietary doesn't bring anything until then, you will not get your lunch at noon.
My resolution: I eat whenever I have a break, or I take my lunch early when all my work is done. I enjoy having lunch in a lunch room that is quieter, since the lazy folks, usually don't start their AM work until after 9. By that time, even with complex patients, I'm nearly halfway (or more) done. I have problems smelling and feeding someone food when I'm hungry because I have 1) a huge desire to eat whatever's on their plate, 2) a huge desire to pass out as I feel my blood sugar dropping and 3) a desire to run right to the fridge and devour my own lunch.
I have a strategy for what I eat, too. I try not to bring anything that needs a microwave. It limits what I can eat, but makes things a bit easier. I mix it up, so all I have to do is unpack and eat. I try to eat lots of fruit, nuts, vegetables and grains, which I don't feel like doing. Having a quiet lunch room also helps when enjoying a fresh cup of coffee.
Our lunch room may be spartan, and not much of an oasis, but any little bit of free time, along with a good lunch can make the day go by quickly.
"Workers cannot just drop patient care when the lunch hour arrives. We are not like an assembly line, which can shut down at lunchtime, or a bank, where people work 9 to 5.”
This is the understatement of the year. Some days, my lunch hours are a mess, especially on the day shift. So many things are crammed into the day shift for the convenience of outside groups, that nursing inevitably is one group that often bears the brunt of the cramming. Take services for example. In our outpost hospital, all of the services, you'd expect to have 24/7 (i.e. radiology, lab, pharmacy, etc.) are not 24/7. No, these groups have daytime hours at Madison, and when it's time for them to go home, they go home and the main hospital, Washington, picks up the slack on certain things, like lab and pharmacy. Emergent stuff has to be sent to an ER that's often on diversion, so most of the time we know that Saint Suburban down the street will get our people.
Interruptions are also key. For some strange reason, no one wants to watch anyone else's people while we're at lunch. Sure the boss assigns lunch times, but he/she still hasn't figured out that if you have a person to feed at noon and dietary doesn't bring anything until then, you will not get your lunch at noon.
My resolution: I eat whenever I have a break, or I take my lunch early when all my work is done. I enjoy having lunch in a lunch room that is quieter, since the lazy folks, usually don't start their AM work until after 9. By that time, even with complex patients, I'm nearly halfway (or more) done. I have problems smelling and feeding someone food when I'm hungry because I have 1) a huge desire to eat whatever's on their plate, 2) a huge desire to pass out as I feel my blood sugar dropping and 3) a desire to run right to the fridge and devour my own lunch.
I have a strategy for what I eat, too. I try not to bring anything that needs a microwave. It limits what I can eat, but makes things a bit easier. I mix it up, so all I have to do is unpack and eat. I try to eat lots of fruit, nuts, vegetables and grains, which I don't feel like doing. Having a quiet lunch room also helps when enjoying a fresh cup of coffee.
Our lunch room may be spartan, and not much of an oasis, but any little bit of free time, along with a good lunch can make the day go by quickly.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Snack attack
I like chips and salsa anyway, but why on earth did someone make the chips healthy enough that you'd want to eat the whole entire bag? Now if they were calorie-free...ah! They were really that good!
At least, I wasn't NPO all day for some labs like the older couple over at the Saintarama Internal Medicine office today. True, Mr. and Mrs. Smith (not their real names) could afford to miss a meal, but be NPO until 3PM? I know their doc (aka Wild Pants) and trust me, if I had had time, I'd have loved to a) see if he was wearing the really weird golf pants today (it is Wednesday) and b) asked him if he had heatstroke, making his people NPO for so long.
Now, I'll just have to get back to working on my photo project I delayed one too many times. Got a deadline now, so I have to make it before school starts.
That is all, so resume snacking. More from the Hotel later!
At least, I wasn't NPO all day for some labs like the older couple over at the Saintarama Internal Medicine office today. True, Mr. and Mrs. Smith (not their real names) could afford to miss a meal, but be NPO until 3PM? I know their doc (aka Wild Pants) and trust me, if I had had time, I'd have loved to a) see if he was wearing the really weird golf pants today (it is Wednesday) and b) asked him if he had heatstroke, making his people NPO for so long.
Now, I'll just have to get back to working on my photo project I delayed one too many times. Got a deadline now, so I have to make it before school starts.
That is all, so resume snacking. More from the Hotel later!
Thanks!
One can pay back the loan of gold, but one dies forever in debt to those who are kind. ~Malayan Proverb
I've not had a shout out section in a really long time, so I thought it was about time, you know how people end up here. Sure a few folks get here via search engine, but without the blogs below, no one would even wander over here for a view of the Hotel.
So when you're out and about, hop on over and visit some of our referrers and read their stuff.
Thank you ladies and gentlemen. I am in your debt!
RehabRN
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http://atyourcervix.blogspot.com/
http://studentrntiffany.blogspot.com/
http://ajnoffthecharts.com/
http://livingdeadnursepsychoward.blogspot.com/
http://pissedoffpatient.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Radiating
I had a couple of new patients recently who've come to the Hotel to get their radiating pain evaluated. This keeps the neurosurgery service and our physiatrists busy. One will get a lami and decompression in a month, and another, a little heat in the capsaicin cream to keep him/her happy while they mix up the medication regimen.
One of our coworkers resolved his radiating pain, and finally came back to work. He also got a research position part time, so he won't really have to do as much physical work.
Another patient starts radiation treatments soon, so he/she's happy to get things going. The wait to get other issues resolved while waiting was getting to be overwhelming.
Hopefully, I'll be radiating a little color after one last day at the pool with Bubba before we start getting ready for school. It's hard to believe the summer's gone by so fast.
Stay tuned...more to come.
One of our coworkers resolved his radiating pain, and finally came back to work. He also got a research position part time, so he won't really have to do as much physical work.
Another patient starts radiation treatments soon, so he/she's happy to get things going. The wait to get other issues resolved while waiting was getting to be overwhelming.
Hopefully, I'll be radiating a little color after one last day at the pool with Bubba before we start getting ready for school. It's hard to believe the summer's gone by so fast.
Stay tuned...more to come.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Failure
There is no failure except in no longer trying. ~Elbert Hubbard
Lots of failure recently in the lives of our folks at the Hotel. Traveling partner and I have been dealing with the dismissal of our request by shaking the money trees. The word is out and we're getting positive feedback, but all we can do is wait, as the clock ticks. If we don't get a response soon enough, we'll go to Plan B, which may or may not work. All in all, in the end, we'll get what we want: a trip out of town, a presentation at an industry conference, and billing on the program.
One of our coworkers has to keep trying methods to find out what is wrong with him/her to see if the musculoskeletal issues are work-related. Gotta fail a lot of treatments before you get disability.
Another story in our local newspaper involves failure to rescue. The unit is abuzz because we know the nurse involved. While he can't talk about it, everyone's playing armchair quarterback. It's a sad case for all parties, especially considering someone died.
We had a good failure today, if there is one. The bigwigs who were supposed to tour the unit never showed up. At least, the floors were shiny, the halls were clear and all the isolation carts full of gowns for one brief moment.
Let's just hope there's no imminent inspection to fail if the clutter comes back!
More later...
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Nerdly pursuits
Yes, I'm one of those crazies who seek out trouble.
I am no longer employed in the computer industry, but I got to convince my friend to do some networking work at home and buy her kid a new computer. Happy Birthday Nico! Remember, I got you (by talking to mom) that iPod Touch last year, too. Don't pull any crap or mamasita's compadre here will mess up your box (as much as it hurts me...it'll hurt you more!)
Dearest Elderly Relative asked me to hook up his/her new PC....and transfer files. You'd swear the world would end if DER can't get those chain letters!
And because everyone's been buying new stuff and making me salivate, I'm coveting this software for one of my upcoming projects. I've been tagged by one of my instructors to publish a paper that I co-authored this semester. Two of three of us are on board to shop the project out....so we'll see what happens.
I'm heading to the online stores. Stay tuned for more tech toy updates.
I am no longer employed in the computer industry, but I got to convince my friend to do some networking work at home and buy her kid a new computer. Happy Birthday Nico! Remember, I got you (by talking to mom) that iPod Touch last year, too. Don't pull any crap or mamasita's compadre here will mess up your box (as much as it hurts me...it'll hurt you more!)
Dearest Elderly Relative asked me to hook up his/her new PC....and transfer files. You'd swear the world would end if DER can't get those chain letters!
And because everyone's been buying new stuff and making me salivate, I'm coveting this software for one of my upcoming projects. I've been tagged by one of my instructors to publish a paper that I co-authored this semester. Two of three of us are on board to shop the project out....so we'll see what happens.
I'm heading to the online stores. Stay tuned for more tech toy updates.
Friday, August 6, 2010
The many hats of RehabRN
One of the neuropsychologists on our unit who I really like said that he/she liked the nurses because we're so versatile.
Somehow, he/she hit the nail on the head recently for one of my shifts.
In one shift, I was...
1.Secretary and chief air traffic controller.
Okay, it wasn't air traffic, but I had to print, type and call about 12 people to get one of our patients sent out to an appointment and get another patient from the already closed clinic back to his/her home three hours away. The ride was late just because they weren't in a hurry to get to the Hotel.
2. Waitress.
This is the story of my life. Don't ask for ice, though, if you have two hands that work and you're rolling all over the unit wreaking havoc.
3. Laundry attendant.
Pretty much the same applies to this as to #2. I can't stand the thought of people going to rehab in dirty clothes.
4. General Ms. Fix It.
I know where the screwdrivers on the unit are...fear me! Most of the time, I'm just asked to fix stuff the engineering department forgets. Now if they'd let me have Allen wrenches, I'd rule the world.
5. Computer geek.
Mr. Laptop has had me install and reinstall software for him after he inadvertently removed an important program.
6. Tour guide
Get lost and end up on our unit? I'll get you where you're going whether it's on campus or in the neighborhood. I wish we printed brochures sometimes, since it would make things easier.
Happily, I'm going to enjoy my current job: wife and mother for the whole weekend. Dahey, Bubba, WildDog and I plan on having a wonderful time visiting relatives and just relaxing.
More to come...
Somehow, he/she hit the nail on the head recently for one of my shifts.
In one shift, I was...
1.Secretary and chief air traffic controller.
Okay, it wasn't air traffic, but I had to print, type and call about 12 people to get one of our patients sent out to an appointment and get another patient from the already closed clinic back to his/her home three hours away. The ride was late just because they weren't in a hurry to get to the Hotel.
2. Waitress.
This is the story of my life. Don't ask for ice, though, if you have two hands that work and you're rolling all over the unit wreaking havoc.
3. Laundry attendant.
Pretty much the same applies to this as to #2. I can't stand the thought of people going to rehab in dirty clothes.
4. General Ms. Fix It.
I know where the screwdrivers on the unit are...fear me! Most of the time, I'm just asked to fix stuff the engineering department forgets. Now if they'd let me have Allen wrenches, I'd rule the world.
5. Computer geek.
Mr. Laptop has had me install and reinstall software for him after he inadvertently removed an important program.
6. Tour guide
Get lost and end up on our unit? I'll get you where you're going whether it's on campus or in the neighborhood. I wish we printed brochures sometimes, since it would make things easier.
Happily, I'm going to enjoy my current job: wife and mother for the whole weekend. Dahey, Bubba, WildDog and I plan on having a wonderful time visiting relatives and just relaxing.
More to come...
In case you're wondering...
Dear Nosy Coworkers:
Yes, I did already talk to the boss about leaving early today. Maybe you should have too, since you like to observe (loudly) that I'm "always getting off for something." Reminds me of the verse, "Seek and you shall find..."
I did earn my kudos for that project I'm working on...remember you didn't want it when it was offered to you, because it was "too much work."
No, I don't mind doing whatever it takes to keep my people happy. I will turn on the computer and set it up for the quad, since it's his/her only link to the outside world via that laptop. Yes, taking care of people and their stuff really IS nursing. Hopefully, if you're ever in a similar situation someone will do the same for you.
And finally, if someone can have a cold Diet Coke on the rocks in a room that's steaming, you'd better believe they're getting it from me.
That is all.
RehabRN
Yes, I did already talk to the boss about leaving early today. Maybe you should have too, since you like to observe (loudly) that I'm "always getting off for something." Reminds me of the verse, "Seek and you shall find..."
I did earn my kudos for that project I'm working on...remember you didn't want it when it was offered to you, because it was "too much work."
No, I don't mind doing whatever it takes to keep my people happy. I will turn on the computer and set it up for the quad, since it's his/her only link to the outside world via that laptop. Yes, taking care of people and their stuff really IS nursing. Hopefully, if you're ever in a similar situation someone will do the same for you.
And finally, if someone can have a cold Diet Coke on the rocks in a room that's steaming, you'd better believe they're getting it from me.
That is all.
RehabRN
Thursday, August 5, 2010
One day, you're fine...
And we're planning all of your rehab stuff to do. The next day, you're getting sick and we're getting you out to an acute hospital, hopefully, fast enough to save your life.
Things often turn 180 degrees when you least expect it.
More to come...stay tuned.
Things often turn 180 degrees when you least expect it.
More to come...stay tuned.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Sometimes...
"You wanna be where everybody knows your name." Gary Portnoy & Judy Hart Angelo, Cheers theme song
Around the Hotel, it's a little like Cheers. We have lots of people who come to see us...over and over. We're not just a Hotel, really, but also an office building, as our clinics and offices are in the same hospital complex. So we really do see people, coming and going.
Today's admission is a regular. If he could sit on a bar stool, he'd be like Norm with one reserved for him and if he drank, a cold one waiting. Alas, NotNorm doesn't drink and he's just staying for a short time with us for a procedure, then going home. NN managed to arrive bright and early for his admission and he regaled everyone with his recent adventures, which also included a near-miss with heavy traffic in his neighborhood, due to a wheelchair gone awry.
When he wasn't keeping the natives in stitches, NN also gave our new resident fits, because he/she was worried about his skin due to a number of moles. So Dr. G. came down to check out NN, and point out to the resident, that those moles were actually seborrheic keratoses. On top of it, Dr. G. complimented my notes while he/she was in the room. It's nice to hear compliments, when everyone else is giving you a load, literally and figuratively.
Our Manglement has decided that nursing may not be paid expenses to attend conferences, even when invited or selected on the conference curriculum as faculty. We can get approved absence from work, but no travel expense payment. This won't stop our leader and a few cronies from attending (their expenses are from a different pool), but as nurses, we've been told we can only go if we pay our own way. Traveling partner and I have some ideas, but we've basically resorted to checking with a few resources with our hats off and hands out. We'll see how it goes, since apparently the old maxim is true: no good deed goes unpunished.
So off I go to prepare the "Can you help us?" letters, since standing out on a curb with a cardboard sign is really just too hard since it's hot here right now. Thank goodness I have years of experience selling stuff!
Want to send two really interesting nurses to a conference and see your name on their suits as they present? E-mail us!
(Not really, but it's a start...not sure if any NASCAR people are showing up to this conference.)
Stay tuned...I may have to think up a blog-a-thon, if the letter writing campaign is unsuccessful.
Around the Hotel, it's a little like Cheers. We have lots of people who come to see us...over and over. We're not just a Hotel, really, but also an office building, as our clinics and offices are in the same hospital complex. So we really do see people, coming and going.
Today's admission is a regular. If he could sit on a bar stool, he'd be like Norm with one reserved for him and if he drank, a cold one waiting. Alas, NotNorm doesn't drink and he's just staying for a short time with us for a procedure, then going home. NN managed to arrive bright and early for his admission and he regaled everyone with his recent adventures, which also included a near-miss with heavy traffic in his neighborhood, due to a wheelchair gone awry.
When he wasn't keeping the natives in stitches, NN also gave our new resident fits, because he/she was worried about his skin due to a number of moles. So Dr. G. came down to check out NN, and point out to the resident, that those moles were actually seborrheic keratoses. On top of it, Dr. G. complimented my notes while he/she was in the room. It's nice to hear compliments, when everyone else is giving you a load, literally and figuratively.
Our Manglement has decided that nursing may not be paid expenses to attend conferences, even when invited or selected on the conference curriculum as faculty. We can get approved absence from work, but no travel expense payment. This won't stop our leader and a few cronies from attending (their expenses are from a different pool), but as nurses, we've been told we can only go if we pay our own way. Traveling partner and I have some ideas, but we've basically resorted to checking with a few resources with our hats off and hands out. We'll see how it goes, since apparently the old maxim is true: no good deed goes unpunished.
So off I go to prepare the "Can you help us?" letters, since standing out on a curb with a cardboard sign is really just too hard since it's hot here right now. Thank goodness I have years of experience selling stuff!
Want to send two really interesting nurses to a conference and see your name on their suits as they present? E-mail us!
(Not really, but it's a start...not sure if any NASCAR people are showing up to this conference.)
Stay tuned...I may have to think up a blog-a-thon, if the letter writing campaign is unsuccessful.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Nirvana
Cold Boulevard
+ Biofreeze to balky shoulder
+ philosophy Lemon Cookie bubble bath
+ a good book
= a great way to end the day.
+ Biofreeze to balky shoulder
+ philosophy Lemon Cookie bubble bath
+ a good book
= a great way to end the day.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Weekend recap
Yes, I'm in a stupor from all the weekend excitement, but I think it has more to do with the hours I work. (Sorry, I'm just a diurnal kind of person...)
Thankfully, the weekend was quiet. We never say the "q" word at work, but now the weekend is over, we can. It's fine and dandy when you sit and work in relatively equal proportions.
This was handy, since I was askedgot stuck to train people on how to use the new payroll system. Why? Since I can read and am "good with computers." We're going green just like Saintarama did years ago and Madison will not print your paycheck stubs anymore. You can via the internet. Great idea in practice, but when a government organization runs anything, there are lots of caveats.
One big bugaboo is that SuperGiganto Payroll people sent e-mails with passwords that expired pretty much after they left the mail server. Which means I had to teach people a) how to get their e-mail (some know how and some don't) and b) how to get through the maze that is SuperGiganto Payroll. As a former author of help documentation, there was way too much of it. One of our nurses totally violated the "green" part of getting into her payroll account by printing the help file, which had to be at least 100 pages. This task, in between call lights and actual work, took about two days.
I also had to complete the paperwork for some folks who missed our yearly competency reviews. The caveat: the forms said they all had to be reviewed by the nurse manager, so only about 20% of the competency could actually be completed over the weekend. Sorry, boss. I tried to help out...you'll just have to do the rest. You'd think our very own education nurse could work on this, but lately, the only thing she's working on is vacation and sitting in her office. I heard more than once that maybe I should be doing her job instead of her. Not a chance. Said nurse has more experience than I do and probably will never set foot back on the floor again.
Since I had some free time, I found a great free review for my next grad school class. I'll be looking at that in my spare time, since classes won't start for a couple of weeks.
Overall, it wasn't a bad weekend. We have more bookings coming up today at the Hotel, so we'll see how it goes.
Stay tuned. It's never a dull moment.
Thankfully, the weekend was quiet. We never say the "q" word at work, but now the weekend is over, we can. It's fine and dandy when you sit and work in relatively equal proportions.
This was handy, since I was asked
One big bugaboo is that SuperGiganto Payroll people sent e-mails with passwords that expired pretty much after they left the mail server. Which means I had to teach people a) how to get their e-mail (some know how and some don't) and b) how to get through the maze that is SuperGiganto Payroll. As a former author of help documentation, there was way too much of it. One of our nurses totally violated the "green" part of getting into her payroll account by printing the help file, which had to be at least 100 pages. This task, in between call lights and actual work, took about two days.
I also had to complete the paperwork for some folks who missed our yearly competency reviews. The caveat: the forms said they all had to be reviewed by the nurse manager, so only about 20% of the competency could actually be completed over the weekend. Sorry, boss. I tried to help out...you'll just have to do the rest. You'd think our very own education nurse could work on this, but lately, the only thing she's working on is vacation and sitting in her office. I heard more than once that maybe I should be doing her job instead of her. Not a chance. Said nurse has more experience than I do and probably will never set foot back on the floor again.
Since I had some free time, I found a great free review for my next grad school class. I'll be looking at that in my spare time, since classes won't start for a couple of weeks.
Overall, it wasn't a bad weekend. We have more bookings coming up today at the Hotel, so we'll see how it goes.
Stay tuned. It's never a dull moment.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Dear male patient
Please don't tell me not to get excited when you get "indigestion" and refuse to take anything to relieve it because you'd rather talk to cousin Bob. You have plenty of risk factors that scream at me. When you say you still have it later, and I run the fire drill to make sure it's just indigestion, don't have a fit then, either.
I'm really not in the mood to call a code which you might not survive if you do indeed have a MI.
Thanks for understanding and take your Maalox.
RehabRN
I'm really not in the mood to call a code which you might not survive if you do indeed have a MI.
Thanks for understanding and take your Maalox.
RehabRN
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Relief
The sun is shining, the birds are singing and it's not yet 100 degrees. The rain has cooled things off for a bit, but the weatherman says it will get hot again.
I feel as if a load has been lifted from my shoulders since school is over. Now, I'm working on some fun projects and will enjoy my respite between classes that don't start again for six weeks.
The Hotel's actually come down in temperature a bit, so we can't say we've got a sauna in it anymore. Unless, of course, you enter one of the shower rooms that never seem to cool off until the dead of winter.
I took care of three people and some other tasks last night. The patients were great...couldn't have asked for better. We sent one of our patients out to Washington last night. I won't miss him, though. He's very angry at everyone over every thing. I'm sure he'll come back, but I'm hoping it won't be until next week...when I'm off.
The staff are still the staff...whispering and muttering about people coming and going and all of the customer service "gestapo" out there. But some should fear the customer service wrath, because they're all in tryouts to be the next Nurse Ratched (no offense Terri! I'm talking about the movie one...) because they like to inflict their personal ideas, whims, or peculiarities on people to their advantage. It's not happening because the patients are spilling their guts to the powers that be at the Hotel and it ain't pretty. And when it ain't pretty, the boss is furious.
It doesn't bother me, though. As one of my fellow nurses pointed out, if we just follow the Golden Rule a little more often, we wouldn't have too many problems with a lot of these complaining patients.
And she's right.
Stay tuned for more excitement...
I feel as if a load has been lifted from my shoulders since school is over. Now, I'm working on some fun projects and will enjoy my respite between classes that don't start again for six weeks.
The Hotel's actually come down in temperature a bit, so we can't say we've got a sauna in it anymore. Unless, of course, you enter one of the shower rooms that never seem to cool off until the dead of winter.
I took care of three people and some other tasks last night. The patients were great...couldn't have asked for better. We sent one of our patients out to Washington last night. I won't miss him, though. He's very angry at everyone over every thing. I'm sure he'll come back, but I'm hoping it won't be until next week...when I'm off.
The staff are still the staff...whispering and muttering about people coming and going and all of the customer service "gestapo" out there. But some should fear the customer service wrath, because they're all in tryouts to be the next Nurse Ratched (no offense Terri! I'm talking about the movie one...) because they like to inflict their personal ideas, whims, or peculiarities on people to their advantage. It's not happening because the patients are spilling their guts to the powers that be at the Hotel and it ain't pretty. And when it ain't pretty, the boss is furious.
It doesn't bother me, though. As one of my fellow nurses pointed out, if we just follow the Golden Rule a little more often, we wouldn't have too many problems with a lot of these complaining patients.
And she's right.
Stay tuned for more excitement...
Friday, July 30, 2010
Bittersweet
Coming back to the Hotel made me feel that way yesterday.
Bitter: Oh, the boss was bitter and it was obvious. We had a meeting and he/she was really going. Never saw a boss quite as shaken as that. And...we're getting Press-Ganeys...what joy!
The lecture is a no-brainer, but unfortunately, the people who need to hear it were absent for one reason or another. Maybe he/she should send them an e-mail so they can read about it.
Thankfully, while my boss was perturbed, he/she was nothing like my team mate's boss. Said boss is in proceedings to get her fired for a trumped up charge and is playing the hellion with the rest of the staff. Note: this is a brand new nurse manager. Said NM was told that he/she had to be a manager to get advanced to the next level. Nothing like breaking the troops once they're under your command. Mutiny, anyone?
Sweet: Got to see that some of our long-term patients went home. Got to talk to people getting ready to go home who are absolutely excited. Three to four people will be leaving the Hotel in the next four days. Sure, we'll get more, but we'll just have to wait and see.
My classes finished. Hooray! All assignments and evaluations complete, which now leaves me time to pursue other fun things like writing, housework and redecorating.
More later...
Bitter: Oh, the boss was bitter and it was obvious. We had a meeting and he/she was really going. Never saw a boss quite as shaken as that. And...we're getting Press-Ganeys...what joy!
The lecture is a no-brainer, but unfortunately, the people who need to hear it were absent for one reason or another. Maybe he/she should send them an e-mail so they can read about it.
Thankfully, while my boss was perturbed, he/she was nothing like my team mate's boss. Said boss is in proceedings to get her fired for a trumped up charge and is playing the hellion with the rest of the staff. Note: this is a brand new nurse manager. Said NM was told that he/she had to be a manager to get advanced to the next level. Nothing like breaking the troops once they're under your command. Mutiny, anyone?
Sweet: Got to see that some of our long-term patients went home. Got to talk to people getting ready to go home who are absolutely excited. Three to four people will be leaving the Hotel in the next four days. Sure, we'll get more, but we'll just have to wait and see.
My classes finished. Hooray! All assignments and evaluations complete, which now leaves me time to pursue other fun things like writing, housework and redecorating.
More later...
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Wild (and wet) Wednesday
No, it wasn't raining, but the humidity was so heavy this morning, it looked like fog burning off. I walked a mile before 9AM and I thought I was going to have to wring out my shirt by the time I got to my destination. Thankfully, I hitched a ride back and picked up my car from the oil change place.
They recommended tires on the left and maybe tires on the right. The tire place kindly pointed out that the ones on the right were dry rotting. What does this mean? The Wild Bullet I drive got a brand new set of tires and an alignment thrown in. Happily, Ye Old Tyre Shop is right next to a strip mall...and a couple of good restaurants. So while it was early, I decided to get lunch before they finished.
Then it was back to working on the final project. I saved it in some obscure directory. I thought I deleted it. Oh thank you patron saint of lost causes! I really thought I toasted my three hours of work when I turned off the laptop to come home.
Now, I'm just going to relish every minute of freedom I have before I go back to work...me and a cold beverage
Stay tuned....
They recommended tires on the left and maybe tires on the right. The tire place kindly pointed out that the ones on the right were dry rotting. What does this mean? The Wild Bullet I drive got a brand new set of tires and an alignment thrown in. Happily, Ye Old Tyre Shop is right next to a strip mall...and a couple of good restaurants. So while it was early, I decided to get lunch before they finished.
Then it was back to working on the final project. I saved it in some obscure directory. I thought I deleted it. Oh thank you patron saint of lost causes! I really thought I toasted my three hours of work when I turned off the laptop to come home.
Now, I'm just going to relish every minute of freedom I have before I go back to work...me and a cold beverage
Stay tuned....
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Interesting vacation ideas
Some of my friends have the knack for finding cool things to do on vacation. Giacomo, my chaplain friend, told me today he's setting off for the wagon routes to the west that the '49ers used to get to gold country.
He'll have modern conveniences, but it still sounds like a very cool adventure.
More to come...
He'll have modern conveniences, but it still sounds like a very cool adventure.
More to come...
Monday, July 26, 2010
Full moon Monday
And to think, I'm not at the Hotel! Darn!
Ah, but it was crazy enough here. Bubba did not want to spend the day with momma and daddy and go to the Kidsmuseum with all the climbing stuff, dinosaurs, animatronics, etc., you can think of, so off he trotted to day camp, where he cried a river before Dahey dropped him off. Not just bawling, but the whole throw yourself on the floor drama queen spectacle. Glad I missed that one. He was still crabby by the time I picked him up this afternoon. Now he's sulking with a root beer float and watching the Yankees play whoever. My child a Yankees fan...eek! That's not kosher in this part of the country, son, but at least he's not asked for an A-rod jersey or a cap yet.
I vegetated and then Dahey and I went to lunch. Didn't end up where we should have, but got lunch nevertheless. Fancy schmancy ethnic was closed, as it is on Mondays, so we went to another nearby eatery owned by Mom and known citywide for her sandwiches. The smell of the marinara drew me to the meatballs...yum!
Dahey went to transact some business. He's an inveterate shopper--goes to auctions, trolls Craigslist, you name it. He drove far away looking for the ever elusive antiques. No dice. Nice man on craigslist who said, sure go to lunch with your wife got a better offer minutes before Dahey arrived and sold the stuff as he was driving up. Pissed off husband ensued.
Nevertheless, I had a lovely day. My partner and I worked on our group paper and got most of it done. At least we have time to give it a thorough look over for all those APA pitfalls.
A little more bliss, maybe some rain, and hopefully, an interesting lunch or two. Stay tuned....
Ah, but it was crazy enough here. Bubba did not want to spend the day with momma and daddy and go to the Kidsmuseum with all the climbing stuff, dinosaurs, animatronics, etc., you can think of, so off he trotted to day camp, where he cried a river before Dahey dropped him off. Not just bawling, but the whole throw yourself on the floor drama queen spectacle. Glad I missed that one. He was still crabby by the time I picked him up this afternoon. Now he's sulking with a root beer float and watching the Yankees play whoever. My child a Yankees fan...eek! That's not kosher in this part of the country, son, but at least he's not asked for an A-rod jersey or a cap yet.
I vegetated and then Dahey and I went to lunch. Didn't end up where we should have, but got lunch nevertheless. Fancy schmancy ethnic was closed, as it is on Mondays, so we went to another nearby eatery owned by Mom and known citywide for her sandwiches. The smell of the marinara drew me to the meatballs...yum!
Dahey went to transact some business. He's an inveterate shopper--goes to auctions, trolls Craigslist, you name it. He drove far away looking for the ever elusive antiques. No dice. Nice man on craigslist who said, sure go to lunch with your wife got a better offer minutes before Dahey arrived and sold the stuff as he was driving up. Pissed off husband ensued.
Nevertheless, I had a lovely day. My partner and I worked on our group paper and got most of it done. At least we have time to give it a thorough look over for all those APA pitfalls.
A little more bliss, maybe some rain, and hopefully, an interesting lunch or two. Stay tuned....
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Harmless habits
I'm working on a couple of these habits. I keep telling my friends we need to get together more often, so now I have something for them to think about.
Back to cooking, studying, and writing, as Dahey jams the stereo with north of the border tunes, from Gordo to BNL.
Stay tuned. More from Vacationland to come...
Back to cooking, studying, and writing, as Dahey jams the stereo with north of the border tunes, from Gordo to BNL.
Stay tuned. More from Vacationland to come...
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Simmering Sunday
It may well be that later. Our simmering heat is getting pounded by massive thunderstorms flooding everything.
Since I'm on vacation, I've been cooking here and there (one of my favorite hobbies) and drinking up all the good liquor with Dahey, since I can sleep in every day. (not to excess mind you...gotta keep some for later!)
Why am I drinking? You would if you had your nose buried in these spreadsheets. Class will be over soon, class will be over soon, I keep telling myself.
More later.
Since I'm on vacation, I've been cooking here and there (one of my favorite hobbies) and drinking up all the good liquor with Dahey, since I can sleep in every day. (not to excess mind you...gotta keep some for later!)
Why am I drinking? You would if you had your nose buried in these spreadsheets. Class will be over soon, class will be over soon, I keep telling myself.
More later.
An interesting dilemma
One of my team mates in my grad school class is getting married. We've been invited to the engagement party and wedding, even if it will resemble this one.
Wish I had enough vacation to attend the whole thing!
Wish I had enough vacation to attend the whole thing!
Friday, July 23, 2010
I am...
Free...freed from the cares of the Hotel for nearly a week.
Wet, from careening down a mega three stories high water slide with a big swirly tub at the end. Talk about being disoriented! I entered the water head first!
Happy...Bubba and Dahey and I could attend a Cub Scout event together. (I usually miss them due to work).
Almost finished...with this class I'm taking. I need to collect my thoughts for the final paper, but I know they're coming.
Done...good night, all. See you next time...
Wet, from careening down a mega three stories high water slide with a big swirly tub at the end. Talk about being disoriented! I entered the water head first!
Happy...Bubba and Dahey and I could attend a Cub Scout event together. (I usually miss them due to work).
Almost finished...with this class I'm taking. I need to collect my thoughts for the final paper, but I know they're coming.
Done...good night, all. See you next time...
Heat and hurricanes...
Can't stop the latest edition of Change of Shift up over at emergiblog. Go check it out!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
One, just one....
Only one admission for me. I took it so another nurse could deal with her patient, who can really be a pain. Said patient was the victim of a horrible mess a few months ago and is still just getting his/her bearings.
My people were good. One was pouty due to circumstances beyond our control. Hopefully, he can stay up for activities tonight, because he's really crabby. The others were out for tests most of the day so I didn't do much.
The usual battle of doctor vs. nurse is alive and well on the unit. It's getting old, so I'll really appreciate escaping.
I only had to admit one patient, who came back to us from Washington and a procedure. Love those slam dunk admissions!
One of our Gen Y nurses is quitting. He/she didn't tell us, but had the tact (or lack) to do the exit interview on the phone in the nurses' station. I'm just waiting to see if security comes when he/she leaves for the last time...
One more day...the excitement continues, so stay tuned.
My people were good. One was pouty due to circumstances beyond our control. Hopefully, he can stay up for activities tonight, because he's really crabby. The others were out for tests most of the day so I didn't do much.
The usual battle of doctor vs. nurse is alive and well on the unit. It's getting old, so I'll really appreciate escaping.
I only had to admit one patient, who came back to us from Washington and a procedure. Love those slam dunk admissions!
One of our Gen Y nurses is quitting. He/she didn't tell us, but had the tact (or lack) to do the exit interview on the phone in the nurses' station. I'm just waiting to see if security comes when he/she leaves for the last time...
One more day...the excitement continues, so stay tuned.
One more day
I have my work cut out for me. An unscheduled lazy day or two and the rest is work.
It's been fun at the Hotel recently...so much with the crazy, stormy weather here that I feel like I'm getting the dreaded summer cold.
What a way to celebrate some time off!
More later...stay tuned.
It's been fun at the Hotel recently...so much with the crazy, stormy weather here that I feel like I'm getting the dreaded summer cold.
What a way to celebrate some time off!
More later...stay tuned.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Countdown
At the end of the week, I will get a long weekend away from the Hotel with my boys. It's not much, but I'll take every single second of it.
Some days are better than others. I was cruising into an uneventful end to my stint on the late shift recently when the quiet was replaced by pandemonium.
First, one patient spikes a ridiculous temp. Said patient's had problems before so we call our MD on call. Get orders. Rush about doing tasks. All is good, even if we have to harass some of our night pharmacists to get what we need.
Next, patient #2 does the same thing. Patient #2 has more pre-existing issues the MD worries about, so we call MD, get orders to have local MD see patient, and he doesn't show up. Nor does he call our MD or do whatever she asked me to ask him. Nope. He says "wait until tomorrow." Our MD is pissed. We had an issue getting the labs to this doc, so with some luck, we managed to do it (not everything is automated at the Hotel) and MD orders an IV.
What does this mean? I get to call pharmacy again and listen to the deep sighs when I tell them I have a stat order. It's as if they've never gotten one. I am so glad I'm not right there to see their faces. I really hate that "Oh, I can't do this because I don't want to do it" entitlement attitude, because I'm a crappy poker face and my thoughts aren't hidden for long.
Charge nurse got everything done because, for the most part, we worked as a team. I just wish all of our team would have cooperated without the attitude.
Outside of that, my grad class is almost done and for a short class, it's had it's share of drama, too, especially for my entire team. Every single solitary one of us has had something going on this semester that's been distracting, even life-threatening. My favorite team member, T., has problems now that may mean she won't be back next semester. I hope they can get resolved. I will miss working with her if she's not around.
Now, back to the grind, and on to the rest of the week. Stay tuned.
Some days are better than others. I was cruising into an uneventful end to my stint on the late shift recently when the quiet was replaced by pandemonium.
First, one patient spikes a ridiculous temp. Said patient's had problems before so we call our MD on call. Get orders. Rush about doing tasks. All is good, even if we have to harass some of our night pharmacists to get what we need.
Next, patient #2 does the same thing. Patient #2 has more pre-existing issues the MD worries about, so we call MD, get orders to have local MD see patient, and he doesn't show up. Nor does he call our MD or do whatever she asked me to ask him. Nope. He says "wait until tomorrow." Our MD is pissed. We had an issue getting the labs to this doc, so with some luck, we managed to do it (not everything is automated at the Hotel) and MD orders an IV.
What does this mean? I get to call pharmacy again and listen to the deep sighs when I tell them I have a stat order. It's as if they've never gotten one. I am so glad I'm not right there to see their faces. I really hate that "Oh, I can't do this because I don't want to do it" entitlement attitude, because I'm a crappy poker face and my thoughts aren't hidden for long.
Charge nurse got everything done because, for the most part, we worked as a team. I just wish all of our team would have cooperated without the attitude.
Outside of that, my grad class is almost done and for a short class, it's had it's share of drama, too, especially for my entire team. Every single solitary one of us has had something going on this semester that's been distracting, even life-threatening. My favorite team member, T., has problems now that may mean she won't be back next semester. I hope they can get resolved. I will miss working with her if she's not around.
Now, back to the grind, and on to the rest of the week. Stay tuned.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Another one bites the dust
It's not enough that people are becoming injured at horrendous rates lately, but the staffing mix is obviously convincing some the grass IS greener in another department.
Another staffer checks out of the Hotel in two weeks. I guess the boss will have some 'splainin' to do soon as Lucy gets home.
Stay tuned...
Another staffer checks out of the Hotel in two weeks. I guess the boss will have some 'splainin' to do soon as Lucy gets home.
Stay tuned...
Monday Friday
I love Mondays when they follow the weekend I work. The moon was huge last night, in between those storm clouds, but not full yet.
Can't wait until this day is over...not long now!
Can't wait until this day is over...not long now!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
A little delusional
Delusion (from www.m-w.com)
Something that is falsely or delusively believed or propagated b : a persistent false psychotic belief regarding the self or persons or objects outside the self that is maintained despite indisputable evidence to the contrary; also : the abnormal state marked by such beliefs
Oh, that was the story of my life on a recent night at the Hotel. What sorts of delusions you ask? Plenty...
1. One patient, when asked the date, stated that it's 1893 or 1954, he/she couldn't decide. Same patient also said spouse was dead and could a couple of nurses please jump in bed with him/her so he/she could warm up. I don't think so...
According to the notes, spouse thinks patient may have Alzheimer's and cannot drive an electric wheelchair anymore due to too many accidents, running into people while shopping.
2. Another patient, with an alcoholic liver will be discharged soon. Patient says she's going home. Family says otherwise. The bus is coming, but no one's 'fessing up to the destination, especially not the POA.
According to the notes, doctor's not disturbing this delusion, either. Gotta thank the doc for this. This girl is a handful when perturbed, and our staff have the stories to prove it.
3. Maybe delusion, maybe not, but one of our patients actually likes the limb splints we have to put on at night. "Hey where are you?" I heard on the intercom. "I want my thing put on, it's time."
If it makes you happy and isn't harmful, let's go! And off to sleep he/she went. Hooray!
Stay tuned...
Something that is falsely or delusively believed or propagated b : a persistent false psychotic belief regarding the self or persons or objects outside the self that is maintained despite indisputable evidence to the contrary; also : the abnormal state marked by such beliefs
Oh, that was the story of my life on a recent night at the Hotel. What sorts of delusions you ask? Plenty...
1. One patient, when asked the date, stated that it's 1893 or 1954, he/she couldn't decide. Same patient also said spouse was dead and could a couple of nurses please jump in bed with him/her so he/she could warm up. I don't think so...
According to the notes, spouse thinks patient may have Alzheimer's and cannot drive an electric wheelchair anymore due to too many accidents, running into people while shopping.
2. Another patient, with an alcoholic liver will be discharged soon. Patient says she's going home. Family says otherwise. The bus is coming, but no one's 'fessing up to the destination, especially not the POA.
According to the notes, doctor's not disturbing this delusion, either. Gotta thank the doc for this. This girl is a handful when perturbed, and our staff have the stories to prove it.
3. Maybe delusion, maybe not, but one of our patients actually likes the limb splints we have to put on at night. "Hey where are you?" I heard on the intercom. "I want my thing put on, it's time."
If it makes you happy and isn't harmful, let's go! And off to sleep he/she went. Hooray!
Stay tuned...
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Summertime
Only means one thing: lots of vacations. None yet for me. I'm still low enough on the totem pole to have garnered only two, count 'em, two weekdays off for all of the summer months.
I'd have to kill a relative soon in order to get any more time.
Fun...back to work.
I'd have to kill a relative soon in order to get any more time.
Fun...back to work.
Friday, July 16, 2010
What is it...
That makes some of the people I work with not give pain meds? What makes them the judge and jury on pain when a patient who had major (and I mean major, serious, as in World Renown Hospital screws up royally on a simple slam dunk procedure) abdominal surgery asks for a pain med?
To top it off...no history of abuse. Another thing...what's with telling them they can't have their PRN med when they ask for it (which, by the way, was within the time parameters).
I just want to scream sometimes. Thankfully, I have more creative outlets.
Stay tuned...it's always a blast at the Hotel, even without fireworks!
To top it off...no history of abuse. Another thing...what's with telling them they can't have their PRN med when they ask for it (which, by the way, was within the time parameters).
I just want to scream sometimes. Thankfully, I have more creative outlets.
Stay tuned...it's always a blast at the Hotel, even without fireworks!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Hot and steamy
The sauna has moved out of doors here in Rehab Land....yuck! Welcome to summer.
Just stay away from the doorways as all the mobile people who freeze in the AC, roll frantically outside to "warm up" , as I drip into a puddle onto the floor.
More later...and I'm hoping the more is actually less heat!
Just stay away from the doorways as all the mobile people who freeze in the AC, roll frantically outside to "warm up" , as I drip into a puddle onto the floor.
More later...and I'm hoping the more is actually less heat!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Do you really think...
I need my house cleaned? Not anymore!
Left to her own devices, RehabRN got out the vac after work, terrorized WildDog by putting him in his room (so he would stop chasing the vacuum), mopped and made dinner all before the guests arrived. Don't worry...he got his cookie for relaxing in his room (he just tries to make me feel guilty!)
Whew! Now for another scoop of pistachio ice cream...I worked hard!
Hope you day went just as well. Traveling partner's been working on the next trip. Who knows...maybe we'll see Elvis.
More later...stay tuned.
Left to her own devices, RehabRN got out the vac after work, terrorized WildDog by putting him in his room (so he would stop chasing the vacuum), mopped and made dinner all before the guests arrived. Don't worry...he got his cookie for relaxing in his room (he just tries to make me feel guilty!)
Whew! Now for another scoop of pistachio ice cream...I worked hard!
Hope you day went just as well. Traveling partner's been working on the next trip. Who knows...maybe we'll see Elvis.
More later...stay tuned.
Preview
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Open letter to the soon-to-be "not new" nurses
Dear New Nurses,
Can you believe you've been signing your name with RN behind it for nearly a year? We can't either. It's always nice to have new people on the unit.
Don't forget...
Speed will come. It gets even faster as you go along.
You will still learn something new every day. That's why K., the charge nurse, who's been here 30+ years is still here. Never a dull moment.
Your new ideas are still new and fresh. Keep learning and don't forget to share what you know.
Just remember...
This is work. Not an after-school gathering at a watering hole as some people seem to make it. Yes, work is a four letter word. Not a bad one, just happens to have four letters. Work never killed anyone.
Help is also a four letter word. Don't be shy. Ask people if you can help them when you're free (which, incidentally is also four letters). Feel free to do stuff people like, but don't always have time to do--stock supplies, get iced water, empty urinals and report the results.
Don't be a slug. We already have one (two, three...) already. That job is already taken, and will not endear you to management. It may not get you much at all, outside of acquiring a bad habit and an eventual pink slip.
Dream and dream big. Make your plans and go for them, be it climbing mountains, climbing the stairs, or even going into management. This may mean more work and/or school or liberal combinations of both, but don't rely on your youthful looks forever.
“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” Greg Anderson
I'm glad you're here to do it with us.
Sincerely,
RehabRN
Can you believe you've been signing your name with RN behind it for nearly a year? We can't either. It's always nice to have new people on the unit.
Don't forget...
Speed will come. It gets even faster as you go along.
You will still learn something new every day. That's why K., the charge nurse, who's been here 30+ years is still here. Never a dull moment.
Your new ideas are still new and fresh. Keep learning and don't forget to share what you know.
Just remember...
This is work. Not an after-school gathering at a watering hole as some people seem to make it. Yes, work is a four letter word. Not a bad one, just happens to have four letters. Work never killed anyone.
Help is also a four letter word. Don't be shy. Ask people if you can help them when you're free (which, incidentally is also four letters). Feel free to do stuff people like, but don't always have time to do--stock supplies, get iced water, empty urinals and report the results.
Don't be a slug. We already have one (two, three...) already. That job is already taken, and will not endear you to management. It may not get you much at all, outside of acquiring a bad habit and an eventual pink slip.
Dream and dream big. Make your plans and go for them, be it climbing mountains, climbing the stairs, or even going into management. This may mean more work and/or school or liberal combinations of both, but don't rely on your youthful looks forever.
“Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” Greg Anderson
I'm glad you're here to do it with us.
Sincerely,
RehabRN
Monday, July 12, 2010
Maybe they get it...
That I try to read my homework whenever possible, so I can get ahead. Yep, that's why. Every page read leads to one more assignment and to one more class to that graduate degree.
The journey of a thousand miles, truly, does begin with a single step.
The journey of a thousand miles, truly, does begin with a single step.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Endings
It's the weekend, so not only is it the end of the week, but it's been the end of a lot of other things.
One of our patients died late last week. It was a great relief. He/she was in hospice and the illness moved quickly. I'm glad he/she was there, instead of here, because that's the place he/she needed to be. It's quiet, peaceful and appropriate. Our house: noisy, often dirty, and just plain crazy. If I had to pick, I'd take hospice anyday. It's like a park there, it's so peaceful.
My summer class is getting close to the end. It's been a lot more work than it looked. Only two more summer classes before graduation. Not sure if that is a good thing, but at this point, with little to no support from my boss, I just can't handle two or three classes and working full-time. My family just likes to see me occasionally.
And the weekend now is nearly over...I wish they were longer. Summer lately has just flown by. I can't wait to get loose for a few days very soon!
Last but not least, I heard Brainscramble was ending via CoS. Good luck wherever you go! Now you know why I don't use my name. (just a tip for all you potential anonymous bloggers out there...)
But, even with endings, there are beginnings. Registration for the new semester starts soon under a new system. I'm just crossing my fingers that it all works without a hitch.
Stay tuned...never a dull moment here or at the Hotel.
One of our patients died late last week. It was a great relief. He/she was in hospice and the illness moved quickly. I'm glad he/she was there, instead of here, because that's the place he/she needed to be. It's quiet, peaceful and appropriate. Our house: noisy, often dirty, and just plain crazy. If I had to pick, I'd take hospice anyday. It's like a park there, it's so peaceful.
My summer class is getting close to the end. It's been a lot more work than it looked. Only two more summer classes before graduation. Not sure if that is a good thing, but at this point, with little to no support from my boss, I just can't handle two or three classes and working full-time. My family just likes to see me occasionally.
And the weekend now is nearly over...I wish they were longer. Summer lately has just flown by. I can't wait to get loose for a few days very soon!
Last but not least, I heard Brainscramble was ending via CoS. Good luck wherever you go! Now you know why I don't use my name. (just a tip for all you potential anonymous bloggers out there...)
But, even with endings, there are beginnings. Registration for the new semester starts soon under a new system. I'm just crossing my fingers that it all works without a hitch.
Stay tuned...never a dull moment here or at the Hotel.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
5 Alive
No, I'm not drinking. Go on over and check out the latest version of Change of Shift over at emergiblog.
And BTW happy 5th anniversary! Keep on rockin', rollin' and 'riting, all you nurse bloggers. Kim would love to see you over there in the next CoS!
And BTW happy 5th anniversary! Keep on rockin', rollin' and 'riting, all you nurse bloggers. Kim would love to see you over there in the next CoS!
It's 3AM...
And I'm not lonely, just suffering from sinuses that refuse to cooperate with standard medications. Might as well get some reading done, and maybe a blog post or two.
While I haven't done a book club review lately, I have been reading Francis Collins' Language of Life. If you want a behind-the-scenes from the view of a geneticist who knows how to talk to people, you have to read this book. Very current, compelling and easily comprehended.
Now back to waiting for the meds to kick in...or people to wake up around here.
More to come...
While I haven't done a book club review lately, I have been reading Francis Collins' Language of Life. If you want a behind-the-scenes from the view of a geneticist who knows how to talk to people, you have to read this book. Very current, compelling and easily comprehended.
Now back to waiting for the meds to kick in...or people to wake up around here.
More to come...
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Planning
Lots of things in my life require planning.
1. Getting patients cleaned up. This sometimes is a mess. Luckily, I had one guy ready right as the docs came by and was able to talk to them about changing his dressing orders with the wound nurse. Why you ask? Because it's a whole lot easier to talk about what would be best, when an area is clean and you can see everything going on there.
2. Finishing my class for the semester. I talked to my prof yesterday as part of a planning meeting (see part of the theme) and realized that I really need to maximize the lunch time I get. How am I going to do it? I've got to escape..or go to lunch early. If I don't do that, I get shortchanged. Shortchanging right now is not a good thing.
3. Surviving the day, despite planning, can go awry pretty quickly. I just cross my fingers and go.
And off I go...stay tuned.
1. Getting patients cleaned up. This sometimes is a mess. Luckily, I had one guy ready right as the docs came by and was able to talk to them about changing his dressing orders with the wound nurse. Why you ask? Because it's a whole lot easier to talk about what would be best, when an area is clean and you can see everything going on there.
2. Finishing my class for the semester. I talked to my prof yesterday as part of a planning meeting (see part of the theme) and realized that I really need to maximize the lunch time I get. How am I going to do it? I've got to escape..or go to lunch early. If I don't do that, I get shortchanged. Shortchanging right now is not a good thing.
3. Surviving the day, despite planning, can go awry pretty quickly. I just cross my fingers and go.
And off I go...stay tuned.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Sunday Monday Tuesday
One patient yesterday told me it was a nice Sunday. No Mr. R., it was actually Monday. It surely seemed like Sunday on the unit when I got there.
It quickly turned to Monday, however, since our doc on call started ordering labs here, there and everywhere, on healthy and sick patients.
So now it really is Tuesday...and I'm taking a breather. More later, so stay tuned.
It quickly turned to Monday, however, since our doc on call started ordering labs here, there and everywhere, on healthy and sick patients.
So now it really is Tuesday...and I'm taking a breather. More later, so stay tuned.
Monday, July 5, 2010
A sliver of life
AtYourCervix has a post about getting a Tylenol on her unit.
Come on over to Madison and add the following to your list:
Do you really think the docs might have a standing order to make this PRN for everyone like they did at Saintarama? Nooooo! That might imply that the nurses are DIAGNOSING a problem ahead of time. Just like that life-saving bowel med you won't let Mr. X have, either.
Yes, of course you could have liver or kidney issues (yes, lots of our people do), but do you really enjoy being awakened at 0300? If I need it, I really don't feel bad calling for it, if the patient has a fever or has been awake all night asking anyway.
Stop being so darned adversarial and I'll stop ranting. And yes, I do call you for the record...CYA baby!
Come on over to Madison and add the following to your list:
Do you really think the docs might have a standing order to make this PRN for everyone like they did at Saintarama? Nooooo! That might imply that the nurses are DIAGNOSING a problem ahead of time. Just like that life-saving bowel med you won't let Mr. X have, either.
Yes, of course you could have liver or kidney issues (yes, lots of our people do), but do you really enjoy being awakened at 0300? If I need it, I really don't feel bad calling for it, if the patient has a fever or has been awake all night asking anyway.
Stop being so darned adversarial and I'll stop ranting. And yes, I do call you for the record...CYA baby!
Monday mayhem
And please, don't say your patient is causing mayhem, even if his name leads you to believe it.
Dahey got a day off, courtesy of Uncle Sam and he's finding all sorts of craziness online, including Cows with Guns.
Dahey got a day off, courtesy of Uncle Sam and he's finding all sorts of craziness online, including Cows with Guns.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Craziness part 3
My life:
Less staff for holiday, some patients on one-to-one, which makes staffing even worse. The Slug with a serious attitude problem. And of course, my techs ain't happy, either.
I thought about disposing a colostomy bag in a very inappropriate place as retaliation...like in his/her trunk. The weather's been just right, so it would ripen quickly enough.
This holiday surely is no holiday. The patients for the most part are good. Mr. Pain, though, is still a pain. They can't get his meds regulated. It is a crying shame.
So glad I've got a grad school countdown going to keep me occupied!
More later.
Less staff for holiday, some patients on one-to-one, which makes staffing even worse. The Slug with a serious attitude problem. And of course, my techs ain't happy, either.
I thought about disposing a colostomy bag in a very inappropriate place as retaliation...like in his/her trunk. The weather's been just right, so it would ripen quickly enough.
This holiday surely is no holiday. The patients for the most part are good. Mr. Pain, though, is still a pain. They can't get his meds regulated. It is a crying shame.
So glad I've got a grad school countdown going to keep me occupied!
More later.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Holiday weekends get crazy
I'm only hoping it gets better.
The latest:
Crispy fried patient cuts up every night just before end of shift. "He was just fine at Saint Suburban and he was on antidepressants. "Well, if you consider missing a broken foot at Saint Suburban in addition to his myriad other crispy fried brain problems secondary to a touch of alcohol abuse "fine"...Haldol, take me away!
Fireworks went off at the party in the park next door. Just hope everyone with PTSD doesn't get too wound up (we made it with no incidents on a recent night).
The Slug will lead us for part of the weekend. Oh. Freaking. Jesus. I just hope his/her entourage (i.e. family) stays home and doesn't call a million times for updates.
Patients go home, and contrary to policy, some are returned to us. They just couldn't wait until the weekend was over. One more was transferred to us to keep the weekend hopping with the skeleton crew.
Troll IT (aka TIT) person freaks out one of my best nurses, F., because she made an error when creating and synching all her passwords. We called TIT person before it was too late in the shift, but once I talked to TIT it was obvious that TIT was 1) disturbed from a sound sleep, 2) was interrupted from a really fun party or 3) was just a typical antisocial character who managed to get into customer support to pay the bills and didn't really want to be there.
TIT actually called me a "security risk" because my nurse (nearly in tears) passed me the phone so I could talk to her. If TIT only realized that F. could save her life if needed, but now, F. is only waiting for the opportunity to run TIT over in the parking lot if she figures out who she is.
Hopefully, that won't happen on our shift. The boss would be slightly pissed.
Stay tuned for more (attempted) murder and mayhem tales...if only I were making them up!
The latest:
Crispy fried patient cuts up every night just before end of shift. "He was just fine at Saint Suburban and he was on antidepressants. "Well, if you consider missing a broken foot at Saint Suburban in addition to his myriad other crispy fried brain problems secondary to a touch of alcohol abuse "fine"...Haldol, take me away!
Fireworks went off at the party in the park next door. Just hope everyone with PTSD doesn't get too wound up (we made it with no incidents on a recent night).
The Slug will lead us for part of the weekend. Oh. Freaking. Jesus. I just hope his/her entourage (i.e. family) stays home and doesn't call a million times for updates.
Patients go home, and contrary to policy, some are returned to us. They just couldn't wait until the weekend was over. One more was transferred to us to keep the weekend hopping with the skeleton crew.
Troll IT (aka TIT) person freaks out one of my best nurses, F., because she made an error when creating and synching all her passwords. We called TIT person before it was too late in the shift, but once I talked to TIT it was obvious that TIT was 1) disturbed from a sound sleep, 2) was interrupted from a really fun party or 3) was just a typical antisocial character who managed to get into customer support to pay the bills and didn't really want to be there.
TIT actually called me a "security risk" because my nurse (nearly in tears) passed me the phone so I could talk to her. If TIT only realized that F. could save her life if needed, but now, F. is only waiting for the opportunity to run TIT over in the parking lot if she figures out who she is.
Hopefully, that won't happen on our shift. The boss would be slightly pissed.
Stay tuned for more (attempted) murder and mayhem tales...if only I were making them up!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Hot, hopping weekend
Oh, I'm expecting some hopping in the Hotel this weekend. We've always got the light on: the call light that is. One character likes to ring it over and over, even though his hands hurt. Perhaps from the pushing to ring? No, that can't be!
Some people are escaping the Hotel for good. Holiday weekends are a nice time to do that. One person was going to give a guy a ride across the state--actually the wife was going to do that--until we convinced them that wasn't a good idea for a number of reasons. Many small town folks just don't get it when we have to enlighten them that they're not in Kansas anymore, as Dorothy might say.
For those who remain, the BBQ people are coming to cook up a storm, and with all those sauces, I'm sure we'll have some diabetics with some high sugars soon.
Stay tuned...the weekend is just beginning!
Some people are escaping the Hotel for good. Holiday weekends are a nice time to do that. One person was going to give a guy a ride across the state--actually the wife was going to do that--until we convinced them that wasn't a good idea for a number of reasons. Many small town folks just don't get it when we have to enlighten them that they're not in Kansas anymore, as Dorothy might say.
For those who remain, the BBQ people are coming to cook up a storm, and with all those sauces, I'm sure we'll have some diabetics with some high sugars soon.
Stay tuned...the weekend is just beginning!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Wacky Wednesday...
The fun, the excitement, the ability to stuff three days of work into one. All done with energy drinks and the occasional snack (gotta watch the figure these days).
Too many Powerpoint presentations, not enough time spent outside...maybe later.
Stay tuned.
Too many Powerpoint presentations, not enough time spent outside...maybe later.
Stay tuned.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Parade route
I felt as if I was parading around the unit today, only instead of following the marching band, I was following the siren call of the antiquated call light system.
One nurse said the ghost of 43 was at work, because, the call light in that room kept going off. For hours. There were very few places of respite from the "beep, beep, beep". Someone had to be near the board, to see the other lights go off and answer them, when the silence button timed out and started the shrill beeps again.
One of my patients had to be whisked away to a far-off appointment, completely bathed, shaved, fluffed and buffed. He/she will be going home soon, so this appointment was long awaited.
A skittish nurse fell at home over the weekend and scraped her head. No head injury, mind you, except to her pride. I think she enjoyed the attention the patients gave her asking about her condition.
Most of my day centered around the call lights and helping the rest of the nurses, since that was my job today. I was so happy when I got to go home!
And while I've been vegetating, I read a couple of interesting articles about patient stories and doctors ignoring their own health. It makes me think, even the research and graduate work I have has a large storytelling component.
I just hope I do the best job I can.
One nurse said the ghost of 43 was at work, because, the call light in that room kept going off. For hours. There were very few places of respite from the "beep, beep, beep". Someone had to be near the board, to see the other lights go off and answer them, when the silence button timed out and started the shrill beeps again.
One of my patients had to be whisked away to a far-off appointment, completely bathed, shaved, fluffed and buffed. He/she will be going home soon, so this appointment was long awaited.
A skittish nurse fell at home over the weekend and scraped her head. No head injury, mind you, except to her pride. I think she enjoyed the attention the patients gave her asking about her condition.
Most of my day centered around the call lights and helping the rest of the nurses, since that was my job today. I was so happy when I got to go home!
And while I've been vegetating, I read a couple of interesting articles about patient stories and doctors ignoring their own health. It makes me think, even the research and graduate work I have has a large storytelling component.
I just hope I do the best job I can.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Weekend madness
It's a whole lot of this and that on the weekends I don't work. A lot of errands, shopping and sometimes cleaning sandwiched in between working on grad school projects and scout stuff.
So is it really necessary for your husband or significant other to arrange entertainment at your house, which hasn't seen a mop in ages?
Arrrgh! I'd kill him if it didn't make another big mess I'd have to clean up!
So is it really necessary for your husband or significant other to arrange entertainment at your house, which hasn't seen a mop in ages?
Arrrgh! I'd kill him if it didn't make another big mess I'd have to clean up!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Don't try this at home...
To all of the graduates still looking for jobs because the market is slim, take heed!
Eight mistakes job hunters make (from www.wsj.com)
Eight mistakes job hunters make (from www.wsj.com)
A wake up call
Kim has a great post on her blog about the bill currently in the US Congress to establish an Office of National Nurse.
Please support HR-4601-IH to formally establish a National Nurse. The best part...we already have one (see Section 1711(1)(a) ).
Finally, please lobby your Congressional representatives to vote for this important initiative. Don't know who they are? Check out US House of Representatives ZIP lookup site, and send him/her an e-mail.
If the ANA won't do it, it's up to YOU!
Please support HR-4601-IH to formally establish a National Nurse. The best part...we already have one (see Section 1711(1)(a) ).
Finally, please lobby your Congressional representatives to vote for this important initiative. Don't know who they are? Check out US House of Representatives ZIP lookup site, and send him/her an e-mail.
If the ANA won't do it, it's up to YOU!
Friday, June 25, 2010
I know the secrets, too
Maha so eloquently described the secrets in the ER in a recent post and it got me thinking about the unspoken stories at the Hotel.
The secrets aren't secrets to everyone mind you, but they lie hidden. The cancer diagnosis no one wants to talk about, yet the specialist charts it in his/her notes. The criminal past of a patient, which includes violence against certain types of staff members. The homelessness, violence, love children, suicide attempts, and madness lurks everywhere you look.
In addition, it's not just the patients with the secrets. It's the staff, too. The relative of a nurse who was forced to go back to work to defend her husband in a criminal trial in which all of her significant assets were seized. The nurse who has an inappropriate relationship with a patient or two or three. The nurse who can't tell the boss he/she has a chronic illness, because he/she is afraid to lose his/her job. The nurse who is an alcoholic, and calls out a lot around the holidays, especially those involving parties or family gatherings.
I wish some would see the light of day, and others, I don't. I shudder at doctors giving a cancer diagnosis like it's just a day in the park, when the prognosis is grim. I wonder if the criminal patient will hurt me if I'm left alone in the right environment. I wonder if the nurse who's involved with the patient will suffer repercussions at home. And finally, with the nurses with illnesses of their own, I wonder what will have to happen for them to get the help they need, as the boss sits idly.
We can only wait and see...stay tuned!
The secrets aren't secrets to everyone mind you, but they lie hidden. The cancer diagnosis no one wants to talk about, yet the specialist charts it in his/her notes. The criminal past of a patient, which includes violence against certain types of staff members. The homelessness, violence, love children, suicide attempts, and madness lurks everywhere you look.
In addition, it's not just the patients with the secrets. It's the staff, too. The relative of a nurse who was forced to go back to work to defend her husband in a criminal trial in which all of her significant assets were seized. The nurse who has an inappropriate relationship with a patient or two or three. The nurse who can't tell the boss he/she has a chronic illness, because he/she is afraid to lose his/her job. The nurse who is an alcoholic, and calls out a lot around the holidays, especially those involving parties or family gatherings.
I wish some would see the light of day, and others, I don't. I shudder at doctors giving a cancer diagnosis like it's just a day in the park, when the prognosis is grim. I wonder if the criminal patient will hurt me if I'm left alone in the right environment. I wonder if the nurse who's involved with the patient will suffer repercussions at home. And finally, with the nurses with illnesses of their own, I wonder what will have to happen for them to get the help they need, as the boss sits idly.
We can only wait and see...stay tuned!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Do you know the way to Santa Fe?
No, it's not the song about San Jose, but Santa Fe is where Keith is hosting the latest version of Change of Shift over at Digital Doorway.
Go check it out!
Go check it out!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Heard on the unit: Denial is not a river in Egypt
Nurse: Sir, are you on any blood pressure meds?
Patient: No, none at all.
Nurse: Your blood pressure is really high (systolic near 200, diastolic 110). I'm going to have to call the doctor and get an order for you. (leaves room)
Nurse on phone and tells Doc story about Mr. HTN above.
Doctor: Mr. HTN is non-compliant with his blood pressure meds.
Nurse: He has a history? He's denied it to everyone who's come into the room.
Doctor: That's nothing new. Give him xx BP med now, and I'll come to see him.
A nice surprise for the morning...
Patient: No, none at all.
Nurse: Your blood pressure is really high (systolic near 200, diastolic 110). I'm going to have to call the doctor and get an order for you. (leaves room)
Nurse on phone and tells Doc story about Mr. HTN above.
Doctor: Mr. HTN is non-compliant with his blood pressure meds.
Nurse: He has a history? He's denied it to everyone who's come into the room.
Doctor: That's nothing new. Give him xx BP med now, and I'll come to see him.
A nice surprise for the morning...
Heart ache, heart break
It's not a song, but heart ache and heart break has been the story of the unit recently.
One of our nurses breaks up via phone with her latest boyfriend. He tells her just had to get back to the babe who threw him to the curb at Christmas when she didn't like the gift he bought. She decided she wants him now, so he calls our nurse to say adios.
Another nurse comes up to me and says, "I have a pain." Which leads to more questions, then a call to the supervisor, and an ambulance shows up and away she goes. Who thinks of a young woman having a heart attack at work? She did.
Finally, one of our friends lost her brother, due to a medical error, on top of another medical error. We are just stunned. They don't want to sue, she says, they just want to make sure it doesn't happen again to someone else.
We just wait to see if we get a new name, like Heartbreak Hotel, anytime soon. Stay tuned...
One of our nurses breaks up via phone with her latest boyfriend. He tells her just had to get back to the babe who threw him to the curb at Christmas when she didn't like the gift he bought. She decided she wants him now, so he calls our nurse to say adios.
Another nurse comes up to me and says, "I have a pain." Which leads to more questions, then a call to the supervisor, and an ambulance shows up and away she goes. Who thinks of a young woman having a heart attack at work? She did.
Finally, one of our friends lost her brother, due to a medical error, on top of another medical error. We are just stunned. They don't want to sue, she says, they just want to make sure it doesn't happen again to someone else.
We just wait to see if we get a new name, like Heartbreak Hotel, anytime soon. Stay tuned...
Monday, June 21, 2010
I love my friend S.
S. and I have known each other for a long time. I don't know how she does it, but she finds the coolest stuff on the internet...must have something to do with that early retirement.
So in case you're out and about and forget your corkscrew for the vino you brought along, check out the video below. NOTE: this may not work with your fancy shoes, so always bring a male companion along to assist. (The voiceover is in French, but you'll get the idea...)
Thanks S.! You are the best!
So in case you're out and about and forget your corkscrew for the vino you brought along, check out the video below. NOTE: this may not work with your fancy shoes, so always bring a male companion along to assist. (The voiceover is in French, but you'll get the idea...)
Thanks S.! You are the best!
Heat, humidity, and vacation season
The Boss is on vacation again this week. Should be interesting. Thankfully, so is the Slug. The charge nurses in control don't need any more mayhem than what occurs naturally at the Hotel.
The unit is cool in some spots and hot in others. It's a classic case of quads like it hot and everyone else likes it cool. This is the time of year I hope to take care of all the people who like it cool. Otherwise, I melt. I throw off the isolation gown ('cause it seems like almost everyone in our place is on isolation) and run into the cool hallway to get some relief.
And with all the heat and humidity comes the storms. Nice if I didn't feel like watering the plants, but not so nice when I'm out with Bubba and the scouts fishing. Those fish just don't like to bite during thunderstorms and standing in an open area with a fishing rod, is not the smart thing to do.
So Momma is gonna retire to some nice air conditioning, with a cool glass of whatever looks good.
More adventures later...
The unit is cool in some spots and hot in others. It's a classic case of quads like it hot and everyone else likes it cool. This is the time of year I hope to take care of all the people who like it cool. Otherwise, I melt. I throw off the isolation gown ('cause it seems like almost everyone in our place is on isolation) and run into the cool hallway to get some relief.
And with all the heat and humidity comes the storms. Nice if I didn't feel like watering the plants, but not so nice when I'm out with Bubba and the scouts fishing. Those fish just don't like to bite during thunderstorms and standing in an open area with a fishing rod, is not the smart thing to do.
So Momma is gonna retire to some nice air conditioning, with a cool glass of whatever looks good.
More adventures later...
To all the ER nurses out there...
If you had a patient with a cardiac history who presented to your ER with nausea, vomiting and recent intractable pain, would you put a monitor on him/her?
Just wondering for a friend...we're having a discussion at work.
Just wondering for a friend...we're having a discussion at work.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
An eye popper
We tried to look at this link at work, but alas, it was blocked. Apparently, it's not considered business related, even if a lot of our patients do get plastic surgery. Normally, you can hide most of our specialists' work under clothing.
Besides gawking at the Hollywood set, the unit was abuzz about another eye popper. Since we're not an ER, it doesn't take much to get us excited, even though we have bodily fluids galore most of the time.
And, to top off one recent night, I thought a patient was watching "It's a Wonderful Life" on his DVD player, because I thought I heard Clarence yelling, "Help! Help!" Turns out the charge and I didn't hear Clarence, but did hear one of our characters after he fell to the floor. Someone apparently didn't like a seat belt, plus one spasm and down he went.
Reminded me of the fall scale at Saintarama that automatically gave a patient a point for being male....stay tuned! More later.
Besides gawking at the Hollywood set, the unit was abuzz about another eye popper. Since we're not an ER, it doesn't take much to get us excited, even though we have bodily fluids galore most of the time.
And, to top off one recent night, I thought a patient was watching "It's a Wonderful Life" on his DVD player, because I thought I heard Clarence yelling, "Help! Help!" Turns out the charge and I didn't hear Clarence, but did hear one of our characters after he fell to the floor. Someone apparently didn't like a seat belt, plus one spasm and down he went.
Reminded me of the fall scale at Saintarama that automatically gave a patient a point for being male....stay tuned! More later.
Friday, June 18, 2010
In the still of the night
On one recent shift, everything clicked and the team functioned as a team. Call lights were answered promptly, people were happy and the only noises we heard were of televised sports and old movies. The census is low enough we're not running around like crazy trying to get things done. No one wants to come in and visit when the weather is nice and they could be outside enjoying it or eating barbecue.
We even congratulated the charge for "picking such good patients" to work with, because they really were good. Until the clock struck the last half hour of the shift. Fortunately, at that moment, we clicked. Vitals taken, the house medical officer called, and oxygen started until the patient could be whisked away to be emergently evaluated.
And as I drove home, I saw the flashing ambulance lights go past me on the drive off the grounds. I knew who they were going to pick up, and I prayed a silent prayer that all goes well, for the patient and everyone on the night shift. We'll see what happens in the days to come.
More later...stay tuned.
We even congratulated the charge for "picking such good patients" to work with, because they really were good. Until the clock struck the last half hour of the shift. Fortunately, at that moment, we clicked. Vitals taken, the house medical officer called, and oxygen started until the patient could be whisked away to be emergently evaluated.
And as I drove home, I saw the flashing ambulance lights go past me on the drive off the grounds. I knew who they were going to pick up, and I prayed a silent prayer that all goes well, for the patient and everyone on the night shift. We'll see what happens in the days to come.
More later...stay tuned.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
It's raining again...
You're old enough some people say
To read the signs and walk away.
It's only time that heals the pain
And makes the sun come out again.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Fate
"I see it in your eyes. You have the look of a man who accepts what he sees because he is expecting to wake up. Ironically, that's not far from the truth. Do you believe in fate, Neo?" (Morpheus in The Matrix, 1999)
I wish I could wake up. I wish I could see that another person who needed hospice didn't do it in the ICU, but yes, it happened again to a friend's family member.
He/she's resigned and I just shake my head. It could have been different, it could have been different. We become so blind that we cannot see the forest for the trees. A beautiful human being suffered needlessly.
More later...
I wish I could wake up. I wish I could see that another person who needed hospice didn't do it in the ICU, but yes, it happened again to a friend's family member.
He/she's resigned and I just shake my head. It could have been different, it could have been different. We become so blind that we cannot see the forest for the trees. A beautiful human being suffered needlessly.
More later...
Greeting the day
Coffee. Check.
Breakfast. Check.
Dahey's lunch. Oops!
One more thing to add to the day...
Breakfast. Check.
Dahey's lunch. Oops!
One more thing to add to the day...
Monday, June 14, 2010
In retrospect...
My day was not so bad. A little barfy, yes, but not so bad.
Dahey pointed me to this one, thanks to one of his friends.
I'm feeling lucky...Lucky Day
Dahey pointed me to this one, thanks to one of his friends.
I'm feeling lucky...Lucky Day
You'll realize it's Monday when...
1. You neaten up your blog and think "no one's been there" since the tracking software died. It died, of course, because you needed to update the code with the changes...DUH!
2. You get three patients, one with myriad holes, one on reverse isolation and one on C-diff isolation. Leaking, freaking beautiful!
3. You pick up your child at camp, find him sleeping in a corner and realize he's not cut out for the "rough life." He's outside no more than two minutes and he's throwing up, and it's not really even hot today.
So glad Tuesday is mere hours away....stay tuned.
2. You get three patients, one with myriad holes, one on reverse isolation and one on C-diff isolation. Leaking, freaking beautiful!
3. You pick up your child at camp, find him sleeping in a corner and realize he's not cut out for the "rough life." He's outside no more than two minutes and he's throwing up, and it's not really even hot today.
So glad Tuesday is mere hours away....stay tuned.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Summertime
Yes, it's here again...hazy, hot, and humid.
Bubba's getting ready to go fishing with his kiddie pole with the scouts and Dahey and I are figuring out what has to get done before the heat of the day comes...to mow or not to mow. That is the question today.
And I decide to add a theme that looks a bit more summery, thanks to the new template designer in blogger. Has me wanting to hit the road again...maybe the boys will decide we need to take a little road trip.
More later...stay tuned.
Bubba's getting ready to go fishing with his kiddie pole with the scouts and Dahey and I are figuring out what has to get done before the heat of the day comes...to mow or not to mow. That is the question today.
And I decide to add a theme that looks a bit more summery, thanks to the new template designer in blogger. Has me wanting to hit the road again...maybe the boys will decide we need to take a little road trip.
More later...stay tuned.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Nurses flex muscle
In Minnesota today, 12,000 nurses chose not to go to work.
Will they listen? Will they stop tripling folks in the ICU? Will they hire more ancillary staff to help?
We can only wait and see...
Will they listen? Will they stop tripling folks in the ICU? Will they hire more ancillary staff to help?
We can only wait and see...
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
An interesting quote
"If you foolishly ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it. Your life will be impoverished. But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life."
--Frank Lloyd Wright, American architect
And with that, since Dahey thinks FLW is the bomb, we find another homeless antique to bring home.
One of these days, I'll win the lottery and put an addition on my house to accommodate all Dahey's beauties...I mean furniture and other assorted stuff in storage.
--Frank Lloyd Wright, American architect
And with that, since Dahey thinks FLW is the bomb, we find another homeless antique to bring home.
One of these days, I'll win the lottery and put an addition on my house to accommodate all Dahey's beauties...I mean furniture and other assorted stuff in storage.
The second coming?
No, it wasn't the second coming, but JC (aka the Joint Commission) was in the Hotel recently. Somehow, we were lucky enough to have them come on the unit when it wasn't absolute bedlam.
I read all the prep materials Madison had printed for us and it was helpful, but of course, our surveyors asked for something completely different. If you have never been through a Joint Commission inspection, it is an experience.
What was my job, you ask? I was the lucky nurse who was chosen by the nurse manager to demonstrate how we take care of our patients, how we dress wounds and how we keep them safe. I also had to take the surveyor to therapy.
You know it's going to be a little stressful when...
1. Surveyor asks if you are causing never events. This led to a chat about what we actually do. Surveyor was happy with the explanation, especially, when we put it on his/her level.
2. You ask one of your patients if he/she would mind talking to the surveyor and he/she says no.
3. You ask the second patient, patient agrees, interview is fine, but surveyor does not like how therapy is doing certain things. Several other departments get involved. Surveyor does not come back in timely manner.
4. You're waiting for surveyor, patient gets fidgety, so you start AM care.
5 Surveyor finally arrives and is accompanied by CNO's right hand nurse and another executive office nurse. You are sweating...not because of the audience, but because the room is so hot.
6. Mr. P. your fidgety patient, see this as his moment in the sun, so he tells surveyor how he doesn't like our other hospital. With all the bigwigs in room. Happily, Mr. P. tells surveyor he loves us because we know what we are doing.
7. Mr. P. did so well that he's chosen as the tracer patient in meeting with surveyor and boss.
I did get a compliment from the boss that the surveyor was impressed with our work. (whew!) I just hope those good things appear in the report.
So what would I say was helpful?
1. Know your facility's policies and be able to talk about them, especially those odd ones. Be prepared to find them, too, since they may want a printout.
2. The boss blanketed the unit to let everyone know the surveyor was on the unit, but we also shared this information with our visitors. No one complained, either.
3.Be friendly, smile and give them exactly what they ask for. Surveyors grade you on your disposition just as much as they grade your knowledge of policy and procedures. If you're a good poker player who bluffs well, you'll have an edge.
4. And if you can, never let them see you sweat. You are okay, though, if the room is hot.
I read all the prep materials Madison had printed for us and it was helpful, but of course, our surveyors asked for something completely different. If you have never been through a Joint Commission inspection, it is an experience.
What was my job, you ask? I was the lucky nurse who was chosen by the nurse manager to demonstrate how we take care of our patients, how we dress wounds and how we keep them safe. I also had to take the surveyor to therapy.
You know it's going to be a little stressful when...
1. Surveyor asks if you are causing never events. This led to a chat about what we actually do. Surveyor was happy with the explanation, especially, when we put it on his/her level.
2. You ask one of your patients if he/she would mind talking to the surveyor and he/she says no.
3. You ask the second patient, patient agrees, interview is fine, but surveyor does not like how therapy is doing certain things. Several other departments get involved. Surveyor does not come back in timely manner.
4. You're waiting for surveyor, patient gets fidgety, so you start AM care.
5 Surveyor finally arrives and is accompanied by CNO's right hand nurse and another executive office nurse. You are sweating...not because of the audience, but because the room is so hot.
6. Mr. P. your fidgety patient, see this as his moment in the sun, so he tells surveyor how he doesn't like our other hospital. With all the bigwigs in room. Happily, Mr. P. tells surveyor he loves us because we know what we are doing.
7. Mr. P. did so well that he's chosen as the tracer patient in meeting with surveyor and boss.
I did get a compliment from the boss that the surveyor was impressed with our work. (whew!) I just hope those good things appear in the report.
So what would I say was helpful?
1. Know your facility's policies and be able to talk about them, especially those odd ones. Be prepared to find them, too, since they may want a printout.
2. The boss blanketed the unit to let everyone know the surveyor was on the unit, but we also shared this information with our visitors. No one complained, either.
3.Be friendly, smile and give them exactly what they ask for. Surveyors grade you on your disposition just as much as they grade your knowledge of policy and procedures. If you're a good poker player who bluffs well, you'll have an edge.
4. And if you can, never let them see you sweat. You are okay, though, if the room is hot.
Just sayin...
If I had $1 US for every bloody gonad I've had to see accidentally or on purpose in my short career, I could have a hell of a nice vacation right about now.
And one of my coworkers, who's been at the Hotel forever, says she'd be retiring to Bermuda right about now...
So what does this mean? We really aren't LOOKING, beyond what is needed for our work.
Puh-leaze! Don't make me give you a rating...you may not like it!
That is all....
And one of my coworkers, who's been at the Hotel forever, says she'd be retiring to Bermuda right about now...
So what does this mean? We really aren't LOOKING, beyond what is needed for our work.
Puh-leaze! Don't make me give you a rating...you may not like it!
That is all....
Is it Monday again?
I am so tired. My sleep schedule is still messed up from my trip and going back to the Hotel.
And now to add to the excitement....
1. School starts again. Sixteen weeks condensed into eight. A lot of that stuff is not light reading.
2. Inspections, inspections, inspections. You name it, we've got it--OIG, State, JC, CARF, etc. Boss is a nervous wreck.
3. The "high school" situation (i.e. cattiness at work) is escalating. I'm just waiting to see what happens with a couple of people. It's very annoying.
Now it's off to the rest of the day...stay tuned.
And now to add to the excitement....
1. School starts again. Sixteen weeks condensed into eight. A lot of that stuff is not light reading.
2. Inspections, inspections, inspections. You name it, we've got it--OIG, State, JC, CARF, etc. Boss is a nervous wreck.
3. The "high school" situation (i.e. cattiness at work) is escalating. I'm just waiting to see what happens with a couple of people. It's very annoying.
Now it's off to the rest of the day...stay tuned.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Back in the saddle again...
The Hotel's still the same, even if they changed the sign out in front while I was gone. So far, no one's harassed me for any conference freebies.
More to come...stay tuned.
More to come...stay tuned.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
I'll fly away...
Conference ends today. The effective end to fun, excitement and lots of learning. So happy I got to come again and see everyone from here there and everywhere.
Back to bellhop duty at the Hotel...at least it seems that way sometimes!
More to come...
Back to bellhop duty at the Hotel...at least it seems that way sometimes!
More to come...
Friday, June 4, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Survival skills: conference edition
What to know at most conferences:
1. Bring a sweater. Those rooms are freezing.
2. Get used to getting close to people. Those rooms are freezing, 'cause they'll pack you in like sardines. I choose the seat near the door, myself.
3. Watch your schedule and move appropriately. Otherwise, you won't get a seat.
4. Keep your eyes open. You never know when you'll run into people you know...or would like to meet. There are famous characters all over the place. The one MD famous for a standard test we do was in a session I was in recently. Very nice fellow, too.
5. And when you see them, and they have time, ask questions. You are here to learn something.
6. Have fun. Learning doesn't have to be all studying, sitting and getting hit by rulers (no rulers here!)
More to come...off I go again.
1. Bring a sweater. Those rooms are freezing.
2. Get used to getting close to people. Those rooms are freezing, 'cause they'll pack you in like sardines. I choose the seat near the door, myself.
3. Watch your schedule and move appropriately. Otherwise, you won't get a seat.
4. Keep your eyes open. You never know when you'll run into people you know...or would like to meet. There are famous characters all over the place. The one MD famous for a standard test we do was in a session I was in recently. Very nice fellow, too.
5. And when you see them, and they have time, ask questions. You are here to learn something.
6. Have fun. Learning doesn't have to be all studying, sitting and getting hit by rulers (no rulers here!)
More to come...off I go again.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Stiff and sore
I'm gonna pay for that little running episode today....stiff and sore, and hotel beds don't help, either.
Off I go...more later.
Off I go...more later.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Who in the world...
Would volunteer for a marathon before going to a conference? Oh, me oh my. Thankfully, it's wasn't a full marathon.
At least, I'll be able to rest up a little bit tomorrow.
More later.
At least, I'll be able to rest up a little bit tomorrow.
More later.
Still the holiday...
For a little bit anyway, so we're doing some prep work and enjoying the scenery in the neighborhood right now.
Showtime: tomorrow. Could be a life-changing experience.
Showtime: tomorrow. Could be a life-changing experience.
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