Back to school is full of newness and possibilities. Lots of kids with new clothes, school supplies, and meeting new friends.The school year shouldn't have kids getting shot. Kids trying to do better than their best while doing their homework.
It's just not right. We must stop killing each other.
More later...
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Saturday, August 15, 2015
The best things in life
Some are free, some not so much.
It's been a fun week. Bubba started seventh grade. He's happy enough, but wishes more of his friends were in his classes (only half of the classes contain at least one friend, which according to Bubba will make them "very boring.").
The school district here in RehabLand is having budget cuts this year. I always know which teachers talk about them (the ones most affected). It's very interesting. There won't be any intramural sports this year, so we have to find Bubba a boys' volleyball league he can play in. He is set on trying out for v-ball in high school, so we must prepare. This will be interesting. He may have to get on a girls team.
So today, we hung out, did homework and we had fun. We went to a local hamburger joint that's been around for ages. It's a tiny place (counter serves 10 people on each side) that makes their own root beer. We got a burger, fries and root beer. It was fun. One item crossed off the bucket list.
Since that wasn't enough calories, we decided to go to a local creamery known for it's oddball flavors. Bubba got one called Cookie Monster. It had both Oreos and chocolate chip cookie dough in it. I got old reliable double chocolate, which was amazing. Bubba was a little scared of the teenage girl population, so we sat on the same side as the ice cream scoopers.
All in all, it was fun hanging out with Bubba. These moments are priceless. I would not trade them for anything.
More to come...
It's been a fun week. Bubba started seventh grade. He's happy enough, but wishes more of his friends were in his classes (only half of the classes contain at least one friend, which according to Bubba will make them "very boring.").
The school district here in RehabLand is having budget cuts this year. I always know which teachers talk about them (the ones most affected). It's very interesting. There won't be any intramural sports this year, so we have to find Bubba a boys' volleyball league he can play in. He is set on trying out for v-ball in high school, so we must prepare. This will be interesting. He may have to get on a girls team.
So today, we hung out, did homework and we had fun. We went to a local hamburger joint that's been around for ages. It's a tiny place (counter serves 10 people on each side) that makes their own root beer. We got a burger, fries and root beer. It was fun. One item crossed off the bucket list.
Since that wasn't enough calories, we decided to go to a local creamery known for it's oddball flavors. Bubba got one called Cookie Monster. It had both Oreos and chocolate chip cookie dough in it. I got old reliable double chocolate, which was amazing. Bubba was a little scared of the teenage girl population, so we sat on the same side as the ice cream scoopers.
All in all, it was fun hanging out with Bubba. These moments are priceless. I would not trade them for anything.
More to come...
Wednesday, August 12, 2015
What not to do as a nurse, anniversary edition
Yes, I got the latest State Board of Nursing (BON) newsletter here in RehabLand, and it's never a dull moment. It's the anniversary edition because I found this sad anniversary from the NFL today. I'm not a big football fan, but I've worked with many patients like him.
Here are a few things to remember NOT to do as a nurse. Happy Graduation to the all the August grads!
1. Make sure your documentation is complete.
An advanced practice nurse was reported anonymously for regular and consistent documentation issues. He/she should have known better.
2. Don't come to work stoned/high on meth/drunk/sleepy.
It should be obvious, but too many people were listed in this issue for the above reasons. And as one person told the investigator, it really isn't "joyfully ironic" that you tested positive for two substances, either.
3. Know your basics about diabetes.
A school nurse was pulled out of a meeting to attend to a student with a blood sugar of 590 who was acting goofy. Student gets progressively worse. Does our school nurse dial 911? Of course not. He/she just called the parent, hung out, asked someone else to give the kid insulin.
Thankfully, a school administrator, without a license, but with a clue called 911. The nurse said he/she waited to call 911 because he/she was "confident" that the student would be okay. The kid was, eventually.
I'm so happy he/she doesn't work at Bubba's school.
4. Know the protocols in your state for IV push medications.
Here in RehabLand, it's defined by a state statute, which clearly says no to graduate nurses and LPNs except in life-threatening emergencies.
Guess what this wasn't? An emergency. And it wasn't the first time, either. (Your drug dispensing units keep really good records for narcs, kids).
5. Don't threaten your coworkers or other staff at your facility.
If you run out of leave, then threaten HR, your nurse manager and a couple of other staff nurses, they may not take you back. Said RN wanted to "find a cure for HIV" and "didn't want innocent people to get hurt."
Thankfully, the court issued restraining orders to keep said RN off medical center property AND the BON revoked his/her license.
That's all for now, folks. Enjoy your day wherever you are until our next installment.
Here are a few things to remember NOT to do as a nurse. Happy Graduation to the all the August grads!
1. Make sure your documentation is complete.
An advanced practice nurse was reported anonymously for regular and consistent documentation issues. He/she should have known better.
2. Don't come to work stoned/high on meth/drunk/sleepy.
It should be obvious, but too many people were listed in this issue for the above reasons. And as one person told the investigator, it really isn't "joyfully ironic" that you tested positive for two substances, either.
3. Know your basics about diabetes.
A school nurse was pulled out of a meeting to attend to a student with a blood sugar of 590 who was acting goofy. Student gets progressively worse. Does our school nurse dial 911? Of course not. He/she just called the parent, hung out, asked someone else to give the kid insulin.
Thankfully, a school administrator, without a license, but with a clue called 911. The nurse said he/she waited to call 911 because he/she was "confident" that the student would be okay. The kid was, eventually.
I'm so happy he/she doesn't work at Bubba's school.
4. Know the protocols in your state for IV push medications.
Here in RehabLand, it's defined by a state statute, which clearly says no to graduate nurses and LPNs except in life-threatening emergencies.
Guess what this wasn't? An emergency. And it wasn't the first time, either. (Your drug dispensing units keep really good records for narcs, kids).
5. Don't threaten your coworkers or other staff at your facility.
If you run out of leave, then threaten HR, your nurse manager and a couple of other staff nurses, they may not take you back. Said RN wanted to "find a cure for HIV" and "didn't want innocent people to get hurt."
Thankfully, the court issued restraining orders to keep said RN off medical center property AND the BON revoked his/her license.
That's all for now, folks. Enjoy your day wherever you are until our next installment.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Ah, memories!
I was reading online and found a link to these NCLEX questions. The scenarios are the "what would you do" management ones. I love those.
For fun I decided to read them, and see how they'd be answered at the Hotel. The selected questions are located at this link: http://www.rnpedia.com/practice-exams/nclex-exam/nclex-practice-exam-management-care
Here's what would happen (or has happened) at the Hotel for the ones I selected. See if your place of employment is the same.
Remember nursing students: you have to answer as if you work at NCLEX Hospital, not at the Hotel or your current hospital. Your mileage may vary, but you'll get the answer right.
1. RE: substance abuse/unfit to work We've had our share of people who shouldn't come to work for a number of reasons. Frankly, I'm all about sending them home if they don't need to be there. Unfortunately, some of my coworkers, do not feel the same way, and contribute to everyone else doing double work so someone else isn't "found out".
Can you say "dysfunctional family"? I knew you could.
7. RE: abuse complaints. Please, please, please don't call the police FIRST, young'uns. I've seen this one in person and the manager ended up leaving and one of our students was basically run off the unit, because he/she did not use common sense.
Assess, mitigate, and notify your chain of command first.
8. RE: dates and patients. Yes, I do tell them it's inappropriate to ask me, a married woman, out on a date, psych or not. I'm here doing a job, which does not include interviewing the next Bachelor/Bachelorette candidates.
9. RE: client calling out asking for help all the time. This is great information, but good luck implementing it, if you don't have a cooperative crew. I remember many a night when some of my evening characters constantly badgered me (and often the rest of the staff) no matter what I told them.
Just remember: dementia and sundowner folks will keep you hopping on evening shift, kids. Don't forget: evenings do get quiet and dark, and that's when things like to fall apart.
11. RE: the surgeon and the chart. Remember: just say no. If he's on your facility medical provider list, he can look for himself. If he chooses to do so (which violates hospital policy in a great many places), it will be logged and he'll have some 'splainin' to do as Ricky Ricardo used to say.
15. RE: visiting hours. Here again, is another example of using common sense. If your family is quiet, calm and respectful, it makes this easier. Model it and they'll do it, too.
Don't be a Nurse Ratched. Taking care of the patient and his/her family (and well-being) really IS your job, no matter when visiting hours are.
For fun I decided to read them, and see how they'd be answered at the Hotel. The selected questions are located at this link: http://www.rnpedia.com/practice-exams/nclex-exam/nclex-practice-exam-management-care
Here's what would happen (or has happened) at the Hotel for the ones I selected. See if your place of employment is the same.
Remember nursing students: you have to answer as if you work at NCLEX Hospital, not at the Hotel or your current hospital. Your mileage may vary, but you'll get the answer right.
1. RE: substance abuse/unfit to work We've had our share of people who shouldn't come to work for a number of reasons. Frankly, I'm all about sending them home if they don't need to be there. Unfortunately, some of my coworkers, do not feel the same way, and contribute to everyone else doing double work so someone else isn't "found out".
Can you say "dysfunctional family"? I knew you could.
7. RE: abuse complaints. Please, please, please don't call the police FIRST, young'uns. I've seen this one in person and the manager ended up leaving and one of our students was basically run off the unit, because he/she did not use common sense.
Assess, mitigate, and notify your chain of command first.
8. RE: dates and patients. Yes, I do tell them it's inappropriate to ask me, a married woman, out on a date, psych or not. I'm here doing a job, which does not include interviewing the next Bachelor/Bachelorette candidates.
9. RE: client calling out asking for help all the time. This is great information, but good luck implementing it, if you don't have a cooperative crew. I remember many a night when some of my evening characters constantly badgered me (and often the rest of the staff) no matter what I told them.
Just remember: dementia and sundowner folks will keep you hopping on evening shift, kids. Don't forget: evenings do get quiet and dark, and that's when things like to fall apart.
11. RE: the surgeon and the chart. Remember: just say no. If he's on your facility medical provider list, he can look for himself. If he chooses to do so (which violates hospital policy in a great many places), it will be logged and he'll have some 'splainin' to do as Ricky Ricardo used to say.
15. RE: visiting hours. Here again, is another example of using common sense. If your family is quiet, calm and respectful, it makes this easier. Model it and they'll do it, too.
Don't be a Nurse Ratched. Taking care of the patient and his/her family (and well-being) really IS your job, no matter when visiting hours are.
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
You can survive
I tell myself this every day. I can survive.
Why? Because, yes, I can survive sitting in a conference for 2-4 hours per day this week, because this conference is talking about where we are going. I'm hoping with a little nudge, we can get people to make the push to see it happen.
I stop what I'm doing because people need me. I'm not turning someone away because I'm in the middle of this. If they bothered to knock, they needed something. I can survive five minutes of missing presentation time.
One of our old timers came by to tell me his wife is getting frail and he needs help. Finding the people who can get that help to him is important. The help will assure that he survives.
I just wish my arm would stop hurting. I pulled something in it doing my exercises tonight. I will survive and hopefully, it will feel better tomorrow.
Kickboxing awaits.
Stay tuned.
Why? Because, yes, I can survive sitting in a conference for 2-4 hours per day this week, because this conference is talking about where we are going. I'm hoping with a little nudge, we can get people to make the push to see it happen.
I stop what I'm doing because people need me. I'm not turning someone away because I'm in the middle of this. If they bothered to knock, they needed something. I can survive five minutes of missing presentation time.
One of our old timers came by to tell me his wife is getting frail and he needs help. Finding the people who can get that help to him is important. The help will assure that he survives.
I just wish my arm would stop hurting. I pulled something in it doing my exercises tonight. I will survive and hopefully, it will feel better tomorrow.
Kickboxing awaits.
Stay tuned.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Back from vacation
Yes, it's always an experience returning to work from vacation. Thankfully, I missed all the excitement of the surprise Joint Commission visit, and the visit from some local VIPs.
Monday was meeting day. I started in one, did my regular rounds, then got trapped in another one, and found out this meeting fun won't end until Thursday. I am so happy that I don't have too many patients scheduled, since I'd have to work them around all these meetings.
At one of these meetings, a doctor presenting talked about how we have to make modern medicine fit the requirements of the Hippocratic Oath. Lots of changes are coming, so reviewing this classic does make things interesting.
I have a feeling this week will fly by, so stay tuned!
Monday was meeting day. I started in one, did my regular rounds, then got trapped in another one, and found out this meeting fun won't end until Thursday. I am so happy that I don't have too many patients scheduled, since I'd have to work them around all these meetings.
At one of these meetings, a doctor presenting talked about how we have to make modern medicine fit the requirements of the Hippocratic Oath. Lots of changes are coming, so reviewing this classic does make things interesting.
I have a feeling this week will fly by, so stay tuned!
Friday, July 31, 2015
Dear Parent Scheduler
It's really nice to see that you can send and read e-mail. I've noticed something lately,though, of which you should be aware. If you notify the guy who MAKES the schedule two weeks beforehand, he won't schedule your kids to participate in the service on the weeks you are busy.
I know it works because I've told him each time we go on vacation, and Bubba isn't scheduled that weekend. Problem solved.
I know that means all of us on the mailing list won't know EXACTLY where C and J and your family are going on vacation, or dance competitions, or band recitals, but we will just have to live with seeing you every so often on the weekends, so we can ask about you in person.
Hope you enjoy trying it out.
Pleasant journeys (and you don't need to tell me about them, if you don't want).
Sincerely,
RehabRN
I know it works because I've told him each time we go on vacation, and Bubba isn't scheduled that weekend. Problem solved.
I know that means all of us on the mailing list won't know EXACTLY where C and J and your family are going on vacation, or dance competitions, or band recitals, but we will just have to live with seeing you every so often on the weekends, so we can ask about you in person.
Hope you enjoy trying it out.
Pleasant journeys (and you don't need to tell me about them, if you don't want).
Sincerely,
RehabRN
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Vacation: the inevitable
It's not close, but vacation will end. I know it. I still have a ton of things to do. Even if I were off for a month, I'm sure I'd harbor some regret for what didn't get done around the house, but I'm doing my best.
I continue to work on getting the outdoor work done: packing up yard waste for pickup, cutting down and mowing stuff. I haven't mowed in years, and yes, I have the mosquito bites to prove it (despite everything, they love me).
Bubba decided he really didn't want to go to the CityPark pool again with camp, so since he crashed into another kid yesterday and got a huge bump on his head, I decided to keep him home. The camp forced me: they called in panic mode yesterday and made me pick him up. It worked out well that I told Dahey where I was going, because they called him at work when I didn't answer and he had to find me at the movie theatre where I was trying to be a grown up and watching a grown up movie (Amy, the documentary on Amy Winehouse). Luckily, there weren't too many other folks around (and I was able to get a voucher to come again).
Since Bubba was on sick leave, and I'm on vacation, we went on a placid stroll in town at the gardens, then we went to lunch and had cupcakes. He even went to a local house featured on Ghost Adventures. Thankfully, he was sufficiently scared by some of the stuff he saw for sale in the gift shop, that we won't be going back.
Now, I just have to take him to a boy movie (Ant Man) instead of Dahey. We're going to an interesting old theatre, and this time, I'll make sure to leave the phone on vibrate, just in case.
Stay tuned.
I continue to work on getting the outdoor work done: packing up yard waste for pickup, cutting down and mowing stuff. I haven't mowed in years, and yes, I have the mosquito bites to prove it (despite everything, they love me).
Bubba decided he really didn't want to go to the CityPark pool again with camp, so since he crashed into another kid yesterday and got a huge bump on his head, I decided to keep him home. The camp forced me: they called in panic mode yesterday and made me pick him up. It worked out well that I told Dahey where I was going, because they called him at work when I didn't answer and he had to find me at the movie theatre where I was trying to be a grown up and watching a grown up movie (Amy, the documentary on Amy Winehouse). Luckily, there weren't too many other folks around (and I was able to get a voucher to come again).
Since Bubba was on sick leave, and I'm on vacation, we went on a placid stroll in town at the gardens, then we went to lunch and had cupcakes. He even went to a local house featured on Ghost Adventures. Thankfully, he was sufficiently scared by some of the stuff he saw for sale in the gift shop, that we won't be going back.
Now, I just have to take him to a boy movie (Ant Man) instead of Dahey. We're going to an interesting old theatre, and this time, I'll make sure to leave the phone on vibrate, just in case.
Stay tuned.
Wednesday, July 29, 2015
RehabRN's Book Club: Summer vacation edition
No, I did not just pick up any old trashy romance novel at the airport newsstand. I actually went to the library (my favorite place to pick up books). Here's what's made it to the reading list this vacation week.
1. The Power of Less by Leo Baubauta. What's my favorite part of any book? Brevity and clarity. If it's short, I'll read it from cover to cover pretty quickly.
I wasn't quite able to sit down and just read it until it was done (as Dahey often does), but I did finish it today, and finishing any book in three days for me is a sprint.
Next on my list,
2. The Book of Joan by Melissa Rivers. Okay, it's as close to a trashy novel that I'll get. It's always interesting to hear what kids have to say about their celebrity parents, especially ones who were as famous as Joan Rivers.
Finally, for number 3, I always have Lewis Grizzard's Last Bus to Albuquerque on my night stand as my go to book. When I need some comic relief, I just pick a page, open it and start reading. I also start laughing and thinking that this interesting character has been gone for far too long. What would he think of the Kardashians and all the internet/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Instagram world we live in?
More books are on order at the library, so stay tuned.
1. The Power of Less by Leo Baubauta. What's my favorite part of any book? Brevity and clarity. If it's short, I'll read it from cover to cover pretty quickly.
I wasn't quite able to sit down and just read it until it was done (as Dahey often does), but I did finish it today, and finishing any book in three days for me is a sprint.
Next on my list,
2. The Book of Joan by Melissa Rivers. Okay, it's as close to a trashy novel that I'll get. It's always interesting to hear what kids have to say about their celebrity parents, especially ones who were as famous as Joan Rivers.
Finally, for number 3, I always have Lewis Grizzard's Last Bus to Albuquerque on my night stand as my go to book. When I need some comic relief, I just pick a page, open it and start reading. I also start laughing and thinking that this interesting character has been gone for far too long. What would he think of the Kardashians and all the internet/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Instagram world we live in?
More books are on order at the library, so stay tuned.
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Vacation weekday 2: Cram session
How much maintenance can I cram into one day? Almost as much as I crammed into this weekend.
So far, I'm clutterbusting while the HVAC tech checked my air conditioning (it's hot as blazes here in RehabLand, so that's good), the bricklayer is here to work on the chimney and the other estimator will be here soon.
To be continued,,,
So far, I'm clutterbusting while the HVAC tech checked my air conditioning (it's hot as blazes here in RehabLand, so that's good), the bricklayer is here to work on the chimney and the other estimator will be here soon.
To be continued,,,
Monday, July 27, 2015
Vacation
All I ever wanted. Free and escaped from the Hotel for more than seven days. That alone is enjoyment!
To start off this week of merriment, Bubba and I hopped in the Family Truckster (not an actual truck, we call it the big fat Silver Bullet) for a whirlwind trip to Memphis. Thanks to the fine Friendly Neighborhood Tire Store, the Truckster was cleared for takeoff, tires rotated and balanced and away we went.
Dahey got some important correspondence (aka the check the boss said was in the mail since the fourth of July) late Friday, so we left at 0800, since we had to visit our friends at the local bank. After that business was transacted, with our special mix of candy in hand (Swedish fish, saltwater taffy and Jolly Ranchers included), we took our time driving down the highway.
Some people used to count Slug Bugs when I was a kid, but not anymore. Bubba decided to bring the iPad along when he got tired of counting dead armadillos (still not too common in RehabLand) and use up all of my high speed data for the month (luckily, that message didn't come until we were nearly home). Sadly, we noticed 10 armadillos who died on their way to meet Elvis.
Our trip was uneventful and we made decent time, so we decided to head straight for the night's lodging. I decided to try something different, as the captain and chief hotel steward: we went for glamour and fun. As a result, since Bubba wanted to go to see Memphis's favorite pandas, Ya Ya and Le Le, we figured we'd better see some other famous critters while we are there. The Zoo has packages where you can stay at the famous Peabody Hotel downtown and see the ducks, in addition to tickets to see their zoo.
We took them up on it, and had a blast. Bubba was roaming around in the terry cloth robe looking like a Rockefeller wannabe. Thankfully, he didn't drink any of the expensive water in the room ($7) or take the rubber duck toy package home (a mere $9.95 plus tax). He wanted to keep the robe, but at $50, he didn't want to part with his allowance he had saved. He was happy he had internet and the Travel Channel so he could watch Ghost Adventures.
However, we did leave the room. We are baseball fans, so who doesn't want to go out into a heat index of 106 and see Santa Claus? We did since it was Christmas in July at the ballpark. The players had an ugly sweater uniform (thankfully not wool), they played Christmas songs, and Kris Kringle himself was available for photos. Bubba looked funny and Santa had a good time holding his BBQ nachos (a park specialty). For a moment, I thought Santa might eat them.
The other bonus to the hotel proximity: no driving to and from the ballpark. This was especially appreciated, since I chose to indulge in a couple of cold frosties while I was there. Also, since it was so beastly hot, I made sure to have some iced water at the top of each inning. Bubba ate a huge snow cone, so that helped him, and neither of us got dehydrated. Thankfully, the home team won, and after the game was over, we had fireworks. It was a fun time, even though Bubba missed Dahey a lot.
On Sunday, we finally got to make one of Bubba's longtime dreams come true: he got to meet a panda. It wasn't like we expected (only one of two showed up in view), but he was happy he got his selfie with Ya Ya while she was behind the glass. Ya Ya must have had one heck of a Saturday night, because she slept right through our visit. As the keepers who do some education outside the exhibit mentioned, pandas like to eat, sleep and poop. We got a great view of the sleeping part. Maybe next time we'll see the rest.
Bubba was happy to hit the road, but he was hungry and nothing looked good at the zoo. Never fear, our kid loves barbecue and the sides that go with it. He has yet to find a place that doesn't have mac and cheese as a side, so we ordered that as a side for the trip. We got a slab of ribs plate for two to take home for our dinner. They were excellent!
All in all, we had a fun time on the road. Just wish Dahey could have been along for the ride. He was busy this weekend keeping an eye on a coworker wandering over the border in Tijuana.
Stay tuned. Vacation continues...
To start off this week of merriment, Bubba and I hopped in the Family Truckster (not an actual truck, we call it the big fat Silver Bullet) for a whirlwind trip to Memphis. Thanks to the fine Friendly Neighborhood Tire Store, the Truckster was cleared for takeoff, tires rotated and balanced and away we went.
Dahey got some important correspondence (aka the check the boss said was in the mail since the fourth of July) late Friday, so we left at 0800, since we had to visit our friends at the local bank. After that business was transacted, with our special mix of candy in hand (Swedish fish, saltwater taffy and Jolly Ranchers included), we took our time driving down the highway.
Some people used to count Slug Bugs when I was a kid, but not anymore. Bubba decided to bring the iPad along when he got tired of counting dead armadillos (still not too common in RehabLand) and use up all of my high speed data for the month (luckily, that message didn't come until we were nearly home). Sadly, we noticed 10 armadillos who died on their way to meet Elvis.
Our trip was uneventful and we made decent time, so we decided to head straight for the night's lodging. I decided to try something different, as the captain and chief hotel steward: we went for glamour and fun. As a result, since Bubba wanted to go to see Memphis's favorite pandas, Ya Ya and Le Le, we figured we'd better see some other famous critters while we are there. The Zoo has packages where you can stay at the famous Peabody Hotel downtown and see the ducks, in addition to tickets to see their zoo.
We took them up on it, and had a blast. Bubba was roaming around in the terry cloth robe looking like a Rockefeller wannabe. Thankfully, he didn't drink any of the expensive water in the room ($7) or take the rubber duck toy package home (a mere $9.95 plus tax). He wanted to keep the robe, but at $50, he didn't want to part with his allowance he had saved. He was happy he had internet and the Travel Channel so he could watch Ghost Adventures.
However, we did leave the room. We are baseball fans, so who doesn't want to go out into a heat index of 106 and see Santa Claus? We did since it was Christmas in July at the ballpark. The players had an ugly sweater uniform (thankfully not wool), they played Christmas songs, and Kris Kringle himself was available for photos. Bubba looked funny and Santa had a good time holding his BBQ nachos (a park specialty). For a moment, I thought Santa might eat them.
The other bonus to the hotel proximity: no driving to and from the ballpark. This was especially appreciated, since I chose to indulge in a couple of cold frosties while I was there. Also, since it was so beastly hot, I made sure to have some iced water at the top of each inning. Bubba ate a huge snow cone, so that helped him, and neither of us got dehydrated. Thankfully, the home team won, and after the game was over, we had fireworks. It was a fun time, even though Bubba missed Dahey a lot.
On Sunday, we finally got to make one of Bubba's longtime dreams come true: he got to meet a panda. It wasn't like we expected (only one of two showed up in view), but he was happy he got his selfie with Ya Ya while she was behind the glass. Ya Ya must have had one heck of a Saturday night, because she slept right through our visit. As the keepers who do some education outside the exhibit mentioned, pandas like to eat, sleep and poop. We got a great view of the sleeping part. Maybe next time we'll see the rest.
Bubba was happy to hit the road, but he was hungry and nothing looked good at the zoo. Never fear, our kid loves barbecue and the sides that go with it. He has yet to find a place that doesn't have mac and cheese as a side, so we ordered that as a side for the trip. We got a slab of ribs plate for two to take home for our dinner. They were excellent!
All in all, we had a fun time on the road. Just wish Dahey could have been along for the ride. He was busy this weekend keeping an eye on a coworker wandering over the border in Tijuana.
Stay tuned. Vacation continues...
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Stress relief
As many articles mention, stress can kill you. It can also have some nasty side effects, like weight gain, and depression.
What I've found lately are two things that help me deal with stress. One is quiet time. I have to have time to be quiet and reflect. It doesn't have to be a lot of time, I just need time. Most often, it's right before I go to sleep at night or if things get crazy at work, I just take five minutes to myself. Sometimes I have to hide to get those five minutes, but I know that if I have them, I will be able to keep myself on track.
I've also been exercising. The scale's not moving (probably because I've indulged) but I'm finally getting some definition back in my arms, legs and even abdominal area. I'm not lifting heavy weights, but I'm consistently exercising and doing strength training with cardiovascular exercise.
My favorite exercise class right now is cardio kickboxing. I believe it's a double duty exercise because it's a great way to relieve stress. All those stupid things people might say to me--BAM! The dirty looks--BAM! I box and kick it away.
So as my favorite t-shirt says, "Don't let the turkeys get you down." Reduce stress in your favorite, most constructive way, and take care of you.
You deserve it, and so does your family, friends, and even your irascible coworkers.
More later...
What I've found lately are two things that help me deal with stress. One is quiet time. I have to have time to be quiet and reflect. It doesn't have to be a lot of time, I just need time. Most often, it's right before I go to sleep at night or if things get crazy at work, I just take five minutes to myself. Sometimes I have to hide to get those five minutes, but I know that if I have them, I will be able to keep myself on track.
I've also been exercising. The scale's not moving (probably because I've indulged) but I'm finally getting some definition back in my arms, legs and even abdominal area. I'm not lifting heavy weights, but I'm consistently exercising and doing strength training with cardiovascular exercise.
My favorite exercise class right now is cardio kickboxing. I believe it's a double duty exercise because it's a great way to relieve stress. All those stupid things people might say to me--BAM! The dirty looks--BAM! I box and kick it away.
So as my favorite t-shirt says, "Don't let the turkeys get you down." Reduce stress in your favorite, most constructive way, and take care of you.
You deserve it, and so does your family, friends, and even your irascible coworkers.
More later...
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Rain, rain, go away!
The weather magicians, er, meteorologists, haven't had much luck lately in the predictions department.
It's rained so much here in RehabLand, that the grass can't handle it any more. Neither can the trees.
I have to rethink my vacation plans and just get some wood and start building an ark.
More to come...
It's rained so much here in RehabLand, that the grass can't handle it any more. Neither can the trees.
I have to rethink my vacation plans and just get some wood and start building an ark.
More to come...
Sunday, July 19, 2015
So many things
I've had a lot of really diverse things going on. Is it busyness? Not really, just a lot of disruption to my regular routine.
Am I happy? I'm just rolling with the changes.
I'm working to get things done in my little world in the Hotel. Some things are incredible (technology IS nice) and some will be game changers for how we care for our patients. Many of these things have been done elsewhere, but no one's sharing a lot of info about how they did it. I'm trying to keep up with everything I can and make sure I avoid the potholes others have already run into on this road to modern health care.
My work has taken me out on the road--literally. That part has been fun. I've been out and about with staff I don't get to work with during my normal day.
I hope to write more in the next couple of weeks. I have some time to think. I can't wait.
I hope to see you again soon. Thanks for visiting. You are always welcome.
Stay tuned...
Am I happy? I'm just rolling with the changes.
I'm working to get things done in my little world in the Hotel. Some things are incredible (technology IS nice) and some will be game changers for how we care for our patients. Many of these things have been done elsewhere, but no one's sharing a lot of info about how they did it. I'm trying to keep up with everything I can and make sure I avoid the potholes others have already run into on this road to modern health care.
My work has taken me out on the road--literally. That part has been fun. I've been out and about with staff I don't get to work with during my normal day.
I hope to write more in the next couple of weeks. I have some time to think. I can't wait.
I hope to see you again soon. Thanks for visiting. You are always welcome.
Stay tuned...
Friday, July 10, 2015
The end of the week
This is almost the middle of July. I hear the siren song of summer, since here in RehabLand, Bubba and the other kids will be in school before Labor Day early in the morning (clutching pearls).
I have many warm memories of starting school in September (when it was still blasted hot) and one year, I dreaded going to school since my classroom was on the second floor. I was in fifth grade. I had horrendous headaches that year. I figured it was the ragweed (since all the windows were open way back when).
The Hotel was hopping this week, and so was I. I actually got to go out on a field trip. That part was fun. When I wasn't busy doing that, I was getting some groundbreaking work done. Since I volunteer for pilot projects (because our boss volunteers our department), I got to work with some new stuff. It was so cool to make care work anywhere! It also helps that the patients like it, too!
I'm going to stop here. It's time to relax and enjoy what I have of the weekend: housework and a little fun. Vacation is in sight. I can't wait.
Stay tuned!
I have many warm memories of starting school in September (when it was still blasted hot) and one year, I dreaded going to school since my classroom was on the second floor. I was in fifth grade. I had horrendous headaches that year. I figured it was the ragweed (since all the windows were open way back when).
The Hotel was hopping this week, and so was I. I actually got to go out on a field trip. That part was fun. When I wasn't busy doing that, I was getting some groundbreaking work done. Since I volunteer for pilot projects (because our boss volunteers our department), I got to work with some new stuff. It was so cool to make care work anywhere! It also helps that the patients like it, too!
I'm going to stop here. It's time to relax and enjoy what I have of the weekend: housework and a little fun. Vacation is in sight. I can't wait.
Stay tuned!
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Happy 4th!
For all of you celebrating US Independence Day, enjoy! For all of you working today, I wish you a boring night and a good view of the fireworks (if there are any in your neighborhood).
More later...
More later...
Monday, June 29, 2015
How you know it's Monday
Signs in the Hotel that it's Monday.
1. Patients are moving around. Can you say bed bingo? No one is where you expect them. I really wish Santa would have brought us private rooms instead of so many doubles (thank goodness triples fell out of vogue).
2. Coworkers get flat tires. Not one, but two of them. Craziness.
3. It rains yet again. I don't care if it's knee high by Saturday, it will get mowed when I don't have to go to work the next day.
4. You find things you don't need to see (or hear about) in the office photo copier, especially things that are not yours.
On we go with the rest of the week. Stay tuned.
1. Patients are moving around. Can you say bed bingo? No one is where you expect them. I really wish Santa would have brought us private rooms instead of so many doubles (thank goodness triples fell out of vogue).
2. Coworkers get flat tires. Not one, but two of them. Craziness.
3. It rains yet again. I don't care if it's knee high by Saturday, it will get mowed when I don't have to go to work the next day.
4. You find things you don't need to see (or hear about) in the office photo copier, especially things that are not yours.
On we go with the rest of the week. Stay tuned.
Friday, June 26, 2015
The weekend is here again
Next week is a short one. Dahey returns from his travels. We have a holiday.
Can you say stress? RehabRN hits the road to visit patients in their homes (I occasionally see patients with our super home care team) all by myself. Yes, I'm going in a company car and I'm a nervous wreck. I have to get to the farthest patient first, see the next one (who can be a curmudgeon) and see if I can get the last one in before that day is over, so I don't have to go through the "request a company car" thing all over again.
I admire all of you in home care who do 5-6 visits per day. I don't know how you do it.
However, it's now Friday night. I am off this weekend, which makes me incredibly happy. I'm not going to be stressed about getting ready. I'm just going to do what I can with what I have.
Hope you have a happy weekend too, wherever you are.
Can you say stress? RehabRN hits the road to visit patients in their homes (I occasionally see patients with our super home care team) all by myself. Yes, I'm going in a company car and I'm a nervous wreck. I have to get to the farthest patient first, see the next one (who can be a curmudgeon) and see if I can get the last one in before that day is over, so I don't have to go through the "request a company car" thing all over again.
I admire all of you in home care who do 5-6 visits per day. I don't know how you do it.
However, it's now Friday night. I am off this weekend, which makes me incredibly happy. I'm not going to be stressed about getting ready. I'm just going to do what I can with what I have.
Hope you have a happy weekend too, wherever you are.
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
2.7 billion ways
There are that many ways to say "oops!" I find it hard to believe that they just "discovered" this. Decimal points in the numbers do make a difference.
It would be nice to get what you need to do your job (i.e. supplies, etc.), but with an outfit like this, I wouldn't hold my breath.
Stay tuned. Another oops method can't be far away!
It would be nice to get what you need to do your job (i.e. supplies, etc.), but with an outfit like this, I wouldn't hold my breath.
Stay tuned. Another oops method can't be far away!
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Little things
Lately, little things mean a lot, or little things can get on my nerves. I'm working hard to let the latter ones go.
Bubba waits for making decisions and it drives me crazy. I almost had a heart attack over him changing his mind about a field trip. I forgot important stuff and had to come back home before I could go to work. A little stop and check would have solved everything.
Some people get on my nerves at work. It might be their attitudes or habits or anything. I just think sometimes, it gets magnified. I am singing that song "Let it go" in my head a lot lately. I can't fix them, so I have to let it go. I'll let them fall on their faces first, because no matter what, they are right. Once they get scraped up, they'll get it.
It's time to live for the good little things, not the bad. Savor the good and let the bad ones go.
Bubba waits for making decisions and it drives me crazy. I almost had a heart attack over him changing his mind about a field trip. I forgot important stuff and had to come back home before I could go to work. A little stop and check would have solved everything.
Some people get on my nerves at work. It might be their attitudes or habits or anything. I just think sometimes, it gets magnified. I am singing that song "Let it go" in my head a lot lately. I can't fix them, so I have to let it go. I'll let them fall on their faces first, because no matter what, they are right. Once they get scraped up, they'll get it.
It's time to live for the good little things, not the bad. Savor the good and let the bad ones go.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Heartbroken
I just cannot believe it. One of my childhood friends asked me a while ago about getting another heart surgery. She had had several strokes in the past and wanted to get her problem fixed. I mentioned to her that ANY surgery is risky and to consider that in her plan. She agreed.
She went in for that surgery, and never came out. Her husband and four children, the youngest is Bubba's age (a preteen) are left behind.
She was almost 46 and a half years old. One year and months older than my own mother when she died.
The last time we saw each other was at a funeral for a relative of one of our classmates. We said we'd get together after she had some time to process her own loss. That time will never come.
I hugged Bubba tighter today. And tonight, I pray for all of them.
Hug your kids (and friends) today. You just never know...
She went in for that surgery, and never came out. Her husband and four children, the youngest is Bubba's age (a preteen) are left behind.
She was almost 46 and a half years old. One year and months older than my own mother when she died.
The last time we saw each other was at a funeral for a relative of one of our classmates. We said we'd get together after she had some time to process her own loss. That time will never come.
I hugged Bubba tighter today. And tonight, I pray for all of them.
Hug your kids (and friends) today. You just never know...
An unwanted visitor
Dear Brown Recluse Spider:
Hanging out in my shower is not good. Especially after I just spent an hour fighting with a lawn mower in heat and humidity, with grass stuck all over my lower extremities.
There is a reason why I wear heavy soled shoes. The only good spider (in my house) is a dead one.
Sorry (but not really, because I'm sure one of your relatives will come and take your place soon enough no matter how much I clean).
Sincerely not,
RehabRN
Hanging out in my shower is not good. Especially after I just spent an hour fighting with a lawn mower in heat and humidity, with grass stuck all over my lower extremities.
There is a reason why I wear heavy soled shoes. The only good spider (in my house) is a dead one.
Sorry (but not really, because I'm sure one of your relatives will come and take your place soon enough no matter how much I clean).
Sincerely not,
RehabRN
Thursday, June 18, 2015
On retirement of a dear friend
Dear Bette:
I'm so happy you're retiring. I know you are, too, even though you say it's bittersweet. Much of life often is, to remind us to be thankful. You've been through a lot the last few years, but you always smiled, even though, being sick often sucks. You were a trouper. It was my pleasure to work with you.
I'll miss you coming up to get coffee in the mornings and discussing all the interesting patients we'd see at the Hotel. You have the uncanny ability for people to trust you and tell you EVERYTHING, even things we didn't really want to know.
You made us realize that our folks are multidimensional people, and to only look at them from one side, was doing them a terrible disservice. Thank you. I know my practice changed from the time I spent working with you.
I will never forget your pioneering spirit, embracing new projects and treatment methods, and I'm sure the rest of the Hotel won't, either. (I promise I won't give your phone number out when some of those providers ask what you really think of those treatment methods, since you are an expert).
You hopefully, will be healthy and stress-free very soon, too, as you leave the hallowed Hotel halls soon for retirement.
I will miss you terribly, but I will never forget you. You are braver than any other person I know, and have given so much to me, our staff, and our patients with your presence.
Godspeed on the rest of your journey.
With warmest regards,
RehabRN
I'm so happy you're retiring. I know you are, too, even though you say it's bittersweet. Much of life often is, to remind us to be thankful. You've been through a lot the last few years, but you always smiled, even though, being sick often sucks. You were a trouper. It was my pleasure to work with you.
I'll miss you coming up to get coffee in the mornings and discussing all the interesting patients we'd see at the Hotel. You have the uncanny ability for people to trust you and tell you EVERYTHING, even things we didn't really want to know.
You made us realize that our folks are multidimensional people, and to only look at them from one side, was doing them a terrible disservice. Thank you. I know my practice changed from the time I spent working with you.
I will never forget your pioneering spirit, embracing new projects and treatment methods, and I'm sure the rest of the Hotel won't, either. (I promise I won't give your phone number out when some of those providers ask what you really think of those treatment methods, since you are an expert).
You hopefully, will be healthy and stress-free very soon, too, as you leave the hallowed Hotel halls soon for retirement.
I will miss you terribly, but I will never forget you. You are braver than any other person I know, and have given so much to me, our staff, and our patients with your presence.
Godspeed on the rest of your journey.
With warmest regards,
RehabRN
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Learning every day
I tell my patients and other nurses that I learn something new every day. Lately, it's been very true. So many things in my life, at home and at work are precipitating the changes. I'm hoping they are all for the better.
While I'll never become a maternal/child nurse, I learned about STABLE the other day from one of my e-mail groups I belong to related to technology. This course is provided virtually for those nurses who are in rural areas who cannot attend in person, due to time or expense.
I'm learning more than I ever wanted to know about some new technologies. Just because it's expensive, doesn't always mean it will work. A long, arduous task was made harder. However, I shouldn't complain. I have a technical guy with a lot of history, who can figure out just about anything. I am extremely lucky.
I have to remind myself of that very fact, too. I am lucky to be able to learn so much.
More later...
While I'll never become a maternal/child nurse, I learned about STABLE the other day from one of my e-mail groups I belong to related to technology. This course is provided virtually for those nurses who are in rural areas who cannot attend in person, due to time or expense.
I'm learning more than I ever wanted to know about some new technologies. Just because it's expensive, doesn't always mean it will work. A long, arduous task was made harder. However, I shouldn't complain. I have a technical guy with a lot of history, who can figure out just about anything. I am extremely lucky.
I have to remind myself of that very fact, too. I am lucky to be able to learn so much.
More later...
Monday, June 15, 2015
Not just nice
Sometimes, it's necessary. Introducing yourself to the specialist who may be visiting your unit is not just a common (really uncommon) courtesy, it's important. Especially to your patient who needs him/her and his/her expertise.
Thank you Suzanne Gordon for reminding us of this very important fact.
Remember, look up and introduce yourself. Your patient is worth it (and so are you)!
Stay tuned.
Thank you Suzanne Gordon for reminding us of this very important fact.
Remember, look up and introduce yourself. Your patient is worth it (and so are you)!
Stay tuned.
If only...
A man loses 2/3 of his weight and needs necessary surgery to remove excess skin. This is the story of one of our Hotel patients.
Dressing this patient is a challenge. Even with a loss of half of his/her previous body weight, it's a challenge. Said patient needed a custom one of these to get up in a wheelchair (not to mention a bariatric chair). It was a challenge for staff to get it on him/her, but they figured it out.
Caring for bariatric patients is a necessary evil. Please be careful out there and use every piece of equipment and tool you have that is appropriate.
Your patient and the rest of the staff (and your back) will appreciate it.
More later...
Dressing this patient is a challenge. Even with a loss of half of his/her previous body weight, it's a challenge. Said patient needed a custom one of these to get up in a wheelchair (not to mention a bariatric chair). It was a challenge for staff to get it on him/her, but they figured it out.
Caring for bariatric patients is a necessary evil. Please be careful out there and use every piece of equipment and tool you have that is appropriate.
Your patient and the rest of the staff (and your back) will appreciate it.
More later...
Saturday, June 13, 2015
The agony and the ecstasy, part 31
These are themes I've seen over and over in my life and practice this week.
Agony:
Agony:
- Breaking very expensive equipment. Fibre optic cables that get stuck, then shatter in your hand and cut you as you're trying to gently extricate them. Ugh! I just hope the boss doesn't have a cow. Reported it already. Still terribly sad.
- Rousing the troops to no avail. Really? Not ONE of you could come to check this out? Yes, I know it was last-minute, but heaven forbid we do anything on a Friday. No one will show (unless it involves free food or money). Disclaimer: I did manage to grab two RNs from the floor wandering by, though. My remote site loved it.
- Get one thing fixed, break another. Thankfully, I'll be able to resolve this, but it will take a while.
- Dahey will be going on a TDY odyssey soon without Bubba and me. If we're lucky, we may be able to visit him before he leaves.
Ecstasy:
- Dr. EI will get his Christmas present (hopefully) by July. All the planets have aligned.
- I finally got into a pilot program which will get our site new, fancy equipment to take rehab and health care out to patients. YIPPEE! (Have waited a LONG time for this, too.)
- Things in this house are starting to come together. New paint adorns a few of the walls and will continue as Bubba and I get ready to tackle some of the easier rooms Dahey left for us.
- Planning a little vacation. Bubba will have another item on his "dreams come true" list complete this summer.
Stay tuned. It's never dull at the Hotel Rehab!
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Dear paranoid relative
Thank you for travelling across the country, stopping in three different airports. It must have been not just physically, but mentally taxing.
Coming to our house was probably better than roaming around the airport. Yes, I did actually clean your room just before you arrived. I washed the linens that very day, so you'd have the fresh ones. (I also did this because I couldn't find the other ones I normally use, and decided these were good enough for your once a decade visits).
However, when you panic when we are out and about, on every choice of public restroom, I want to throttle you. Throttling a 50-something year old person in public is still not common here in RehabLand, unless you threw a punch at Dahey or said something obnoxious to me or the other ladies in the crowd.
That is all. The secret to life in a public restroom is wash your hands and use a paper towel to open the door. Pure and simple.
Hope you remember this the next time you visit and we take you out on the town.
Sincerely ('cause I'd hate to throttle you in public),
RehabRN
Coming to our house was probably better than roaming around the airport. Yes, I did actually clean your room just before you arrived. I washed the linens that very day, so you'd have the fresh ones. (I also did this because I couldn't find the other ones I normally use, and decided these were good enough for your once a decade visits).
However, when you panic when we are out and about, on every choice of public restroom, I want to throttle you. Throttling a 50-something year old person in public is still not common here in RehabLand, unless you threw a punch at Dahey or said something obnoxious to me or the other ladies in the crowd.
That is all. The secret to life in a public restroom is wash your hands and use a paper towel to open the door. Pure and simple.
Hope you remember this the next time you visit and we take you out on the town.
Sincerely ('cause I'd hate to throttle you in public),
RehabRN
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Summer reading club
Yes, raise your hand, if you're one of those people who makes a New Year's resolution to read more? That's me, too. In my day-to-day work, I'm always reading. Most of the things I read are guidelines, policies, procedures or official-type documents.
As a kid, I was a veteran of the Summer Reading Club here in RehabLand. I have many fond memories of going to my local library, doing the program and getting my name put up on the wall with those of the other kids in my school in the children's section. I loved getting the certificate of completion and the FREE book. Although I loved to read, my free book was always a Peanuts paperback book. It was something they didn't loan out much in the library, and it was my reward for finishing. Snoopy was the subject of my first book.
Thankfully, I don't have to worry anymore about losing my summer reading club book list. Our new library has a reading club online and they give prizes to adults, too! It may not be Snoopy books, but it's fun.
Here's what I've read or am reading right now. Hope you'll enjoy them, or head on over to your local library and find one of your own.
1.Thoughts are things: Turning your ideas into realities by Bob Proctor & Greg S. Reid. I enjoyed this book about ideas and using them in life.Based on the ideas of the Napoleon Hill Foundation.
2. Small Batch: Pickles, cheese, chocolate, spirits and the return of artisanal foods, by Suzanne Cope. If you love food and love stories, you'll like this book, which talks about history, food and the new companies that have grown up doing what our ancestors did all the time.
3. Simple Lessons for a Better Life by Charles E. Dodgen. I'm still reading this, and I'm loving it. A couple of stories hit home for me, and really look a lot like what has happened occasionally at the Hotel. If you want a different view of nursing homes and older people from a the perspective of a psychologist., this is it.
As a kid, I was a veteran of the Summer Reading Club here in RehabLand. I have many fond memories of going to my local library, doing the program and getting my name put up on the wall with those of the other kids in my school in the children's section. I loved getting the certificate of completion and the FREE book. Although I loved to read, my free book was always a Peanuts paperback book. It was something they didn't loan out much in the library, and it was my reward for finishing. Snoopy was the subject of my first book.
Thankfully, I don't have to worry anymore about losing my summer reading club book list. Our new library has a reading club online and they give prizes to adults, too! It may not be Snoopy books, but it's fun.
Here's what I've read or am reading right now. Hope you'll enjoy them, or head on over to your local library and find one of your own.
1.Thoughts are things: Turning your ideas into realities by Bob Proctor & Greg S. Reid. I enjoyed this book about ideas and using them in life.Based on the ideas of the Napoleon Hill Foundation.
2. Small Batch: Pickles, cheese, chocolate, spirits and the return of artisanal foods, by Suzanne Cope. If you love food and love stories, you'll like this book, which talks about history, food and the new companies that have grown up doing what our ancestors did all the time.
3. Simple Lessons for a Better Life by Charles E. Dodgen. I'm still reading this, and I'm loving it. A couple of stories hit home for me, and really look a lot like what has happened occasionally at the Hotel. If you want a different view of nursing homes and older people from a the perspective of a psychologist., this is it.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Why you need insurance
***SOAPBOX ALERT**** (aka something to consider)
There are lots of insurance products out there: life, homeowners, renters, automobile, motorcycle, health, disability insurance you name it. Some are required by law, like automobile insurance, or homeowners, because they protect a valuable asset (your home or your car). This is mostly required by creditors. Life insurance protects you and your family. We know that nursing is a hard, sometimes dangerous profession. Disability insurance is another thing to consider, since nurses are very likely to be injured on the job vs. to die at work.
However, many nurses practice without insuring something just as valuable. They practice without nursing malpractice insurance. In the few years I've practiced, I've heard a lot of stories about lawsuits and the judgments that often come with them.
Many people rationalize why they don't want insurance. They are not "those people". If they buy insurance, they'll be sued. The hospital will protect me, since I've been a good employee and never disciplined. My state board will protect me.
Unfortunately, those people or nurses who get sued are very nice people just doing their jobs like you are. If you are like me, you live in an "at will" state. You can be fired at any time (and you can leave at any time). This means even with your stellar record, your facility could let you go. Finally, most state boards may discipline you if you are found negligent. If you lose your license, you lose your livelihood.
If you love your job, your family, your house and your car, you need to consider carrying malpractice insurance, too. There are many good firms out there, some specifically for nurses. Seek them out.
Your career may depend on it.
More to come...
There are lots of insurance products out there: life, homeowners, renters, automobile, motorcycle, health, disability insurance you name it. Some are required by law, like automobile insurance, or homeowners, because they protect a valuable asset (your home or your car). This is mostly required by creditors. Life insurance protects you and your family. We know that nursing is a hard, sometimes dangerous profession. Disability insurance is another thing to consider, since nurses are very likely to be injured on the job vs. to die at work.
However, many nurses practice without insuring something just as valuable. They practice without nursing malpractice insurance. In the few years I've practiced, I've heard a lot of stories about lawsuits and the judgments that often come with them.
Many people rationalize why they don't want insurance. They are not "those people". If they buy insurance, they'll be sued. The hospital will protect me, since I've been a good employee and never disciplined. My state board will protect me.
Unfortunately, those people or nurses who get sued are very nice people just doing their jobs like you are. If you are like me, you live in an "at will" state. You can be fired at any time (and you can leave at any time). This means even with your stellar record, your facility could let you go. Finally, most state boards may discipline you if you are found negligent. If you lose your license, you lose your livelihood.
If you love your job, your family, your house and your car, you need to consider carrying malpractice insurance, too. There are many good firms out there, some specifically for nurses. Seek them out.
Your career may depend on it.
More to come...
Sunday, June 7, 2015
To our esteemed readers
Dear readers:
Thank you for stopping by to visit. It's been a crazy week. When you bury a relative as part of a large (we have so many kids/grandkids/nieces/nephews) that we can almost rent the entire hotel family, it gets a little crazy. Unlike most Irish wakes, Auntie Em didn't get to come to the party at the Hibernian hall after the funeral. However, she would have loved it.
Lots of food and drinks and even a little gambling going on at the bar in the other room. Since Auntie Em's state allows gaming in bars, it was fun dragging the kids away from their popcorn machine (aka kid magnet) before the state liquor commissioners passed by. Happily, the bartenders shut the door and the kids found the cookies.
The banquet hall was full. Lots of people came out in the middle of the week to say goodbye at the wake, the funeral and the luncheon at the Hibernians. Auntie Em's boss (a retired allergist who was younger) even showed up, which is something that doesn't always happen for folks who die in their nineties. Dahey and Bubba had a good time. Bubba with the other kids, Dahey with his cousins who he doesn't get to see nearly enough.
Dahey's family may start visiting in between weddings and funerals, but it remains to be seen. Sure would be nice to celebrate while we're all here to do it in the same room.
Again, thanks for understanding. It is deeply appreciated.
Sincerely,
RehabRN
Thank you for stopping by to visit. It's been a crazy week. When you bury a relative as part of a large (we have so many kids/grandkids/nieces/nephews) that we can almost rent the entire hotel family, it gets a little crazy. Unlike most Irish wakes, Auntie Em didn't get to come to the party at the Hibernian hall after the funeral. However, she would have loved it.
Lots of food and drinks and even a little gambling going on at the bar in the other room. Since Auntie Em's state allows gaming in bars, it was fun dragging the kids away from their popcorn machine (aka kid magnet) before the state liquor commissioners passed by. Happily, the bartenders shut the door and the kids found the cookies.
The banquet hall was full. Lots of people came out in the middle of the week to say goodbye at the wake, the funeral and the luncheon at the Hibernians. Auntie Em's boss (a retired allergist who was younger) even showed up, which is something that doesn't always happen for folks who die in their nineties. Dahey and Bubba had a good time. Bubba with the other kids, Dahey with his cousins who he doesn't get to see nearly enough.
Dahey's family may start visiting in between weddings and funerals, but it remains to be seen. Sure would be nice to celebrate while we're all here to do it in the same room.
Again, thanks for understanding. It is deeply appreciated.
Sincerely,
RehabRN
Sunday, May 31, 2015
A lazy afternoon
At least it was for a moment. I got most of the errands done, however, I had an additional one after the neighborhood flock of robins decided to attack my car only on the driver's side, right near the door handles.
I'm convinced they read this Far Side cartoon.
Hope you enjoy your Sunday wherever you are.
I'm convinced they read this Far Side cartoon.
Hope you enjoy your Sunday wherever you are.
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Let me count...
The possible headlines for this article. (BTW we also had a devious character in the Hotel who was leaving piles in trash cans.)
1. Poo on you, I didn't doo it.
2. If he didn't sh$t, you must acquit.
3. You want me to do WHAT?
4. Am I in the hospital?
5. What rights do you have? Obviously not s...
It seems like this is made up, but it's not. It's a true story about genetics and DNA.
1. Poo on you, I didn't doo it.
2. If he didn't sh$t, you must acquit.
3. You want me to do WHAT?
4. Am I in the hospital?
5. What rights do you have? Obviously not s...
It seems like this is made up, but it's not. It's a true story about genetics and DNA.
Just because you can do something doesn't always mean you should.
Stay tuned!
Friday, May 29, 2015
Another Memorial Day
Many years ago, when we got home from a trip, we got a phone call. My father-in-law passed away. We had just seen him days before.
This year, we didn't go anywhere on Memorial Day, but we got the same news. Dahey's aunt passed away this time. A different date, a different year, but still on Memorial Day.
We will miss you Aunt M. You lived a good, long life with many children, friends and neighbors.
This year, we didn't go anywhere on Memorial Day, but we got the same news. Dahey's aunt passed away this time. A different date, a different year, but still on Memorial Day.
We will miss you Aunt M. You lived a good, long life with many children, friends and neighbors.
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Dear Surgeon
When you come on the floor, could you actually talk? Grunting and pointing are things Bubba did when he was three years old. Besides, you're not in the OR with a mask on any more. It scares the patients. They think you never smile. (BTW I win bets when you do.)
And finally, please, please, please, do not poke around on folks who have pressure ulcers near bones.
I do not like finding out a patient is in a pool of blood when I turn him/her for the other provider to see his/her wounds because you were just poking around to see what would happen. (Just ask me--I've seen exsanguination like this before.) Dr. X can't see anything with all the blood and I have to get our people to get your people, and then you can't take off on time to go eat your lunch on the veranda with your wife.
It is not fun to volume deplete someone here at the Hotel when getting blood products here is a major, hours long ordeal. We don't have an ICU, so if you screw up, we call 911 and pray.
Thanking you in advance (and I promise I won't trip you in the hallway),
Sincerely not,
RehabRN
And finally, please, please, please, do not poke around on folks who have pressure ulcers near bones.
I do not like finding out a patient is in a pool of blood when I turn him/her for the other provider to see his/her wounds because you were just poking around to see what would happen. (Just ask me--I've seen exsanguination like this before.) Dr. X can't see anything with all the blood and I have to get our people to get your people, and then you can't take off on time to go eat your lunch on the veranda with your wife.
It is not fun to volume deplete someone here at the Hotel when getting blood products here is a major, hours long ordeal. We don't have an ICU, so if you screw up, we call 911 and pray.
Thanking you in advance (and I promise I won't trip you in the hallway),
Sincerely not,
RehabRN
Why I have hope
I found out today that the Slug will retire in eight or so years at one of the retirement parties for K. K was my preceptor and definitely one of the best nurses ever.
The Slug was not allowed to be my preceptor.
Three words: Thank you God!
More to come...
The Slug was not allowed to be my preceptor.
Three words: Thank you God!
More to come...
Monday, May 25, 2015
Memorial Day
It was one of the most costly wars in terms of lives lost. In our family, my mother's brothers and my father's uncles all went to war.
My maternal uncle went to France as an Army medic. He was stationed near Paris for two years after the Allies captured the city. He missed his chance to be a professional baseball player, but he was a father and a grandfather.
My paternal great uncle was not so lucky. He had survived the Battle of Anzio, moving up through Italy, and then his Army unit went into Eastern France. Before he could get to the Battle of the Bulge, he was killed crossing a bridge, struck down by a mortar.
When I visited France, I visited the town where he died. I will never forget him, or the sacrifices he made; the family he left behind.
Today, I remember all who gave their lives in gratitude. Freedom is not free. It was paid for by those we lost.
Thank you doesn't seem like enough.
My maternal uncle went to France as an Army medic. He was stationed near Paris for two years after the Allies captured the city. He missed his chance to be a professional baseball player, but he was a father and a grandfather.
My paternal great uncle was not so lucky. He had survived the Battle of Anzio, moving up through Italy, and then his Army unit went into Eastern France. Before he could get to the Battle of the Bulge, he was killed crossing a bridge, struck down by a mortar.
When I visited France, I visited the town where he died. I will never forget him, or the sacrifices he made; the family he left behind.
Today, I remember all who gave their lives in gratitude. Freedom is not free. It was paid for by those we lost.
Thank you doesn't seem like enough.
Sunday, May 24, 2015
I've always wondered myself
This article from the Wall Street Journal made me drudge up thoughts about some of the Hotel patients and other surgeons.
One patient had a common ailment that we see at the Hotel. It is always has the potential to be dangerous, even when it doesn't appear to be. It hides in the body and while we see the disfiguring side in nursing, mostly pressure sores, it's an illness that often requires the participation of multiple disciplines, ranging from plastic surgery (our most common), infectious disease, orthopedics, and sometimes even hematology/oncology.
People want to know what will happen and when one particular doctor gave his take of the situation, they called him "Debbie Downer". I explained to the patient (and the relatives) that this is not to scare them, but to tell them the truth. Informed consent really is a good thing, and sometimes, I spend way more time talking to patients after they hear life-changing news, and they ask the what, where, and why questions. Often, they just don't want to believe that one doctor.
However, our surgeon wasn't the only one. He also consulted with orthopedics. The patient was offered a procedure that was not acceptable. The other option was two different procedures: a hemipelvectomy or a girdlestone, but the patient wouldn't consent to those, either.
Our surgeon took the patient to the OR, since he/she agreed to the odds. The odds were not on their side. There was no miracle. The procedure could not be completed. We are pretty much where we started.
Now we wait to see what happens. Some things are just not what they seem, so being informed is a very good thing.
One patient had a common ailment that we see at the Hotel. It is always has the potential to be dangerous, even when it doesn't appear to be. It hides in the body and while we see the disfiguring side in nursing, mostly pressure sores, it's an illness that often requires the participation of multiple disciplines, ranging from plastic surgery (our most common), infectious disease, orthopedics, and sometimes even hematology/oncology.
People want to know what will happen and when one particular doctor gave his take of the situation, they called him "Debbie Downer". I explained to the patient (and the relatives) that this is not to scare them, but to tell them the truth. Informed consent really is a good thing, and sometimes, I spend way more time talking to patients after they hear life-changing news, and they ask the what, where, and why questions. Often, they just don't want to believe that one doctor.
However, our surgeon wasn't the only one. He also consulted with orthopedics. The patient was offered a procedure that was not acceptable. The other option was two different procedures: a hemipelvectomy or a girdlestone, but the patient wouldn't consent to those, either.
Our surgeon took the patient to the OR, since he/she agreed to the odds. The odds were not on their side. There was no miracle. The procedure could not be completed. We are pretty much where we started.
Now we wait to see what happens. Some things are just not what they seem, so being informed is a very good thing.
Friday, May 22, 2015
It's the long weekend
TGIF! We started the weekend off with fun. We went and rode some rides not far from home tonight at one of many picnics. Bubba and I had a funnel cake and I reminisced about how many of the rides are still the same as when I was a kid. It would be nice if the tickets were the same. I couldn't believe the prices.
Bubba even saw some kids from school, including a girl who saw him as we were leaving. She was a tall blonde, and had there not been more traffic, I think Bubba would have run faster to the car. However, Blonde Babe stayed on her side of the picnic and we went home.
Dahey even got into the modern era: he joined his first social networking site. His crazy friend from high school was the first person to find him online, so it was like a mini reunion. I first met Max via e-mail and I'll never forget how he described his time in the military: "After doing my first hitch and finding out there are no permanent marching band jobs in the military, I decided to learn a trade and become an electrician."
Some things change, and yes, some things (and people) stay the same.
Stay tuned.
Bubba even saw some kids from school, including a girl who saw him as we were leaving. She was a tall blonde, and had there not been more traffic, I think Bubba would have run faster to the car. However, Blonde Babe stayed on her side of the picnic and we went home.
Dahey even got into the modern era: he joined his first social networking site. His crazy friend from high school was the first person to find him online, so it was like a mini reunion. I first met Max via e-mail and I'll never forget how he described his time in the military: "After doing my first hitch and finding out there are no permanent marching band jobs in the military, I decided to learn a trade and become an electrician."
Some things change, and yes, some things (and people) stay the same.
Stay tuned.
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Head banging or TGIF hurry up
Maybe it's because it's a long weekend. Maybe it's because I've had more than my share of head banging needed recently. If I were a pitcher, my ERA would be terrible. Two patients scheduled no-showed or refused to cooperate. Very frustrating.
Some of the people you work with have amnesia and screw stuff up no matter how many times you tell them something.Asking these same people to think is a dangerous thing. "Oh you mean I was supposed to answer when so-and-so called on the teleconferencing unit to discuss x patient." Yes, Dumbelina, you sure were supposed to answer. Even a master's degree in your discipline is of no use.
I think of the article I read about doctors not wanting to use stethoscopes in the 19th century because, "Why do that when I can just put my ear to someone's chest?" I want to yell the same thing about the technology at the Hotel, with which they do the same thing.
Thank goodness I already bought all the beverages I'll need for this weekend. I will be partaking of some nice cold ones as soon as it's feasible Friday.
Stay tuned and hope you enjoy your Friday.
Some of the people you work with have amnesia and screw stuff up no matter how many times you tell them something.Asking these same people to think is a dangerous thing. "Oh you mean I was supposed to answer when so-and-so called on the teleconferencing unit to discuss x patient." Yes, Dumbelina, you sure were supposed to answer. Even a master's degree in your discipline is of no use.
I think of the article I read about doctors not wanting to use stethoscopes in the 19th century because, "Why do that when I can just put my ear to someone's chest?" I want to yell the same thing about the technology at the Hotel, with which they do the same thing.
Thank goodness I already bought all the beverages I'll need for this weekend. I will be partaking of some nice cold ones as soon as it's feasible Friday.
Stay tuned and hope you enjoy your Friday.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
'Tis the graduation season
To all of you graduates out there, congratulations! Your four (or more) years are done. You have achieved your goal, or you are on your way to a couple of more graduations, with even more costumes and pomp and circumstance.
There are plenty of graduation speakers this year, but, I've always appreciated this sentiment (even though I'm not a Republican).
Remember, C=RN too, in many schools, so be brave and don't give up. There will always be critics. Do your best every day. You and your patients deserve the best.
I found it a grand coincidence that both my commencement speakers were baseball players. One was a chatty guy who said, "Never take a no from someone who can give you a yes." I lived by that one. It changed my life. The other had a whole collection of maxims from years in baseball.
As they say, when you come to a fork in the road, take it. You never know where it may lead.
More to come...
There are plenty of graduation speakers this year, but, I've always appreciated this sentiment (even though I'm not a Republican).
Remember, C=RN too, in many schools, so be brave and don't give up. There will always be critics. Do your best every day. You and your patients deserve the best.
I found it a grand coincidence that both my commencement speakers were baseball players. One was a chatty guy who said, "Never take a no from someone who can give you a yes." I lived by that one. It changed my life. The other had a whole collection of maxims from years in baseball.
As they say, when you come to a fork in the road, take it. You never know where it may lead.
More to come...
Monday, May 18, 2015
Loud noises at inopportune times
Yes, folks, these are the things that drive me crazy or keep me awake at night. Last night, it was the latter.
Nothing like crazy driver swerving to avoid a mailbox, then hitting the neighbor's car and stopping at the tree.
Just very thankful that the driver didn't continue on and end up in our yard.
The perils of living near a crazy, county road.
Stay tuned for more traffic reports.
Nothing like crazy driver swerving to avoid a mailbox, then hitting the neighbor's car and stopping at the tree.
Just very thankful that the driver didn't continue on and end up in our yard.
The perils of living near a crazy, county road.
Stay tuned for more traffic reports.
Sunday, May 17, 2015
From my crystal ball
I like to tell patients I have a crystal ball at home, so that's why I can't always tell the future at work.
However, when I read this story, I surely would not be surprised if there's a lawsuit in the future. Brain injuries in small children are bad enough.
That is all.
Stay tuned...
However, when I read this story, I surely would not be surprised if there's a lawsuit in the future. Brain injuries in small children are bad enough.
That is all.
Stay tuned...
Saturday, May 16, 2015
Every parent's nightmare
One morning, your kid leaves home, never to return. This recently happened to one of my therapy coworkers from Saintarama. We also know Marci and her kids, since Bubba is in school with them.
It was hard. We squeezed each other tight and prayed at the memorial. Bubba and the kids went off to look at the many pictures of their dear, departed brother and look at some of his stuff, which was also on display.
A life just begun as an adult was extinguished early one morning on the road.
Hug your kids today and everyday. I know I will.
More to come...
It was hard. We squeezed each other tight and prayed at the memorial. Bubba and the kids went off to look at the many pictures of their dear, departed brother and look at some of his stuff, which was also on display.
A life just begun as an adult was extinguished early one morning on the road.
Hug your kids today and everyday. I know I will.
More to come...
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Things not to do as a nurse, part LVIII
Here's another installment of the popular section on what not to do as a nurse. Listen up, new grads. This is NOT the way to get your 15 minutes of fame.
If you think it is, just remember, NCLEX is getting harder. Here in RehabLand, the pass rate went down, but luckily, the licensing folks are thrilled we are still above the national average pass rate.
Here are a few things that got nurses in RehabLand in trouble lately. Just remember, don't try these at home (or work, either) if you plan on keeping that bright, shiny license.
1. If you're supposed to monitor someone in the ICU, monitor them.
Don't paint your nails, don't go on Facebook, don't blow off the newer nurse you're working with who points out the fact that your patient now has a heart rate of 160 and maybe you should call the doc for orders. Also, when said heart rate goes to 200, don't tell everyone that "I had no idea."
Doesn't work. End of story.
2. If you plead guilty to felony theft, you may lose your license.
Another pretty simple example.
3. Falling in love with a felon could get you in trouble.
No, it's not related to #2, but it could be. Jailhouse Nurse falls for an inmate she's caring for. She goes out and gets him a handcuff key and a gun. To add to the fun, she smokes some marijuana (a friend brought it in from a legal state) and gets caught doing that while with said inmate/felon. Boundary violations are not a good thing.
4. Oxygen saturation is important for everything.
Remember your ABCs: Airway Breathing Circulation. Yes, those are important. Failing to notice low oxygen sats and to do something about it, can get you into licensure trouble.
5. When you are a private duty nurse, you have to be there (both physically and mentally).
Two examples: one nurse decided to run "personal errands" for almost two hours while caring for her private duty patient, who had hourly vital signs. She also "forgot" to chart that "errand."
Another private duty nurse decided to huff some Dust-Off while her patient's mother fell asleep. The mom found the nurse passed out in the living room on the couch, and when aroused he/she was in no state to work.
6. Why you don't want to become Walgreens/CVS/insert favorite drug store here.
This was pretty interesting. Two nurses were cited related to "collecting medications to give to poor/uninsured patients" Surprisingly, my license does not say MD or registered pharmacist, either.
Some medications just should not be shared (one RN took unused vials to reuse).
7. Don't bring medical records home.
Ever. No matter how behind you are at work. Can you say HIPAA? This RN took home records that affected a patient's care. Very ugly.
And finally...
8. Don't spank your patients.
Even if they are kids who wriggle around and smack you on the nose while doing their dressing.
That is all. Stay tuned for more in our next installment.
If you think it is, just remember, NCLEX is getting harder. Here in RehabLand, the pass rate went down, but luckily, the licensing folks are thrilled we are still above the national average pass rate.
Here are a few things that got nurses in RehabLand in trouble lately. Just remember, don't try these at home (or work, either) if you plan on keeping that bright, shiny license.
1. If you're supposed to monitor someone in the ICU, monitor them.
Don't paint your nails, don't go on Facebook, don't blow off the newer nurse you're working with who points out the fact that your patient now has a heart rate of 160 and maybe you should call the doc for orders. Also, when said heart rate goes to 200, don't tell everyone that "I had no idea."
Doesn't work. End of story.
2. If you plead guilty to felony theft, you may lose your license.
Another pretty simple example.
3. Falling in love with a felon could get you in trouble.
No, it's not related to #2, but it could be. Jailhouse Nurse falls for an inmate she's caring for. She goes out and gets him a handcuff key and a gun. To add to the fun, she smokes some marijuana (a friend brought it in from a legal state) and gets caught doing that while with said inmate/felon. Boundary violations are not a good thing.
4. Oxygen saturation is important for everything.
Remember your ABCs: Airway Breathing Circulation. Yes, those are important. Failing to notice low oxygen sats and to do something about it, can get you into licensure trouble.
5. When you are a private duty nurse, you have to be there (both physically and mentally).
Two examples: one nurse decided to run "personal errands" for almost two hours while caring for her private duty patient, who had hourly vital signs. She also "forgot" to chart that "errand."
Another private duty nurse decided to huff some Dust-Off while her patient's mother fell asleep. The mom found the nurse passed out in the living room on the couch, and when aroused he/she was in no state to work.
6. Why you don't want to become Walgreens/CVS/insert favorite drug store here.
This was pretty interesting. Two nurses were cited related to "collecting medications to give to poor/uninsured patients" Surprisingly, my license does not say MD or registered pharmacist, either.
Some medications just should not be shared (one RN took unused vials to reuse).
7. Don't bring medical records home.
Ever. No matter how behind you are at work. Can you say HIPAA? This RN took home records that affected a patient's care. Very ugly.
And finally...
8. Don't spank your patients.
Even if they are kids who wriggle around and smack you on the nose while doing their dressing.
That is all. Stay tuned for more in our next installment.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Something we can relate
Yes, I'm sure many of you who come here may have witnessed a scene like this one in this recent Well article from the NY Times.
Lots of drama. Lots of noise. Lots of "hell no" going on in the background, even if no one explicitly says it.
Reminded me of Head Nurse's recent post of the cheerful ED nurse.
Makes me miss the drama of the clinic I worked in a few years ago with the character who screamed he was in so much pain until he got shipped off via ambulance and got the Dilaudid. Our character hadn't used that in the Washington ED before, so staff got him/her the goods.
Lots of drama. Lots of noise. Lots of "hell no" going on in the background, even if no one explicitly says it.
Reminded me of Head Nurse's recent post of the cheerful ED nurse.
Makes me miss the drama of the clinic I worked in a few years ago with the character who screamed he was in so much pain until he got shipped off via ambulance and got the Dilaudid. Our character hadn't used that in the Washington ED before, so staff got him/her the goods.
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Flo's birthday and this important celebration
Yes! Flo's birthday! Jump up and down folks, she's the reason why we have a profession. It's the last day of Nurses' Week to celebrate, and how appropriate it is.
But, did you know, May 12 is also a day to celebrate nursing informatics? Yes, indeed! This specialty was formally recognized in 1992 by the American Nurses' Association.
So thank the nurses who make sure your computers work for nursing work, to give you more time with patients, the nurses who make technology work for nurses (and often every other clinical staffer in your hospital).
But, did you know, May 12 is also a day to celebrate nursing informatics? Yes, indeed! This specialty was formally recognized in 1992 by the American Nurses' Association.
So thank the nurses who make sure your computers work for nursing work, to give you more time with patients, the nurses who make technology work for nurses (and often every other clinical staffer in your hospital).
Monday, May 11, 2015
Just another Monday
Still Nurses' Week..YES! The psychology staff are celebrating on Florence Nightingale's birthday at the Hotel, but they have to send an e-mail every day so people don't forget.
I celebrated today by having lots of technical difficulties in my clinic. Now I have to find a creative way to get a gift basket of coffee, Mountain Dew, chocolate and other terribly fattening things to my favorite support technicians. Yes, it's been that kind of week and this is only Monday. We have a "special notes" section of our intranet, so I recognized two of the folks today. I had to...those two saved my derriere so much already.
Bubba got out of school early today and is counting the days when school ends here in RehabLand. Since his school had no snow days (we had a school boss from Minnesota who wasn't scared one icy day) this year, they'll actually finish on the day they said. Bubba, however, may notice those last days are different. For the first time ever, he has final exams. Should get him ready for high school!
Now Bubba is at his friend Jorge's house, helping him get some of the music homework done before the big party this week at the last band class. If Jorge gets the magic number, he'll be in. Bubba, his partner in crime, wants to provide moral support so it happens.
Stay tuned...one more day of Nurses' Week left. Enjoy every moment. You deserve it!
I celebrated today by having lots of technical difficulties in my clinic. Now I have to find a creative way to get a gift basket of coffee, Mountain Dew, chocolate and other terribly fattening things to my favorite support technicians. Yes, it's been that kind of week and this is only Monday. We have a "special notes" section of our intranet, so I recognized two of the folks today. I had to...those two saved my derriere so much already.
Bubba got out of school early today and is counting the days when school ends here in RehabLand. Since his school had no snow days (we had a school boss from Minnesota who wasn't scared one icy day) this year, they'll actually finish on the day they said. Bubba, however, may notice those last days are different. For the first time ever, he has final exams. Should get him ready for high school!
Now Bubba is at his friend Jorge's house, helping him get some of the music homework done before the big party this week at the last band class. If Jorge gets the magic number, he'll be in. Bubba, his partner in crime, wants to provide moral support so it happens.
Stay tuned...one more day of Nurses' Week left. Enjoy every moment. You deserve it!
Celebrate Military Nurses today
It's still Nurses' Week, so celebrate!
This article talks about many military nurses, some you may not have heard about, who worked behind the scenes in many areas.
Enjoy!
This article talks about many military nurses, some you may not have heard about, who worked behind the scenes in many areas.
Enjoy!
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Happy Mother's Day
A man loves his sweetheart the most, his wife the best, but his mother the longest.
Irish Proverb
So Bubba and Dahey took me to brunch today, they bought me roses, and when we got home (since our brunch location doesn't do liquor) I got my mimosas.
I almost completed my vow to not do any laundry (or other housework) today, but I spilled one mimosa on my favorite tablecloth, so I washed it.
Hope you enjoy your day (and your mom) wherever you are! Not everyone is able to do so. I still miss my mom, who has been gone for many years now.
More to come...
Irish Proverb
So Bubba and Dahey took me to brunch today, they bought me roses, and when we got home (since our brunch location doesn't do liquor) I got my mimosas.
I almost completed my vow to not do any laundry (or other housework) today, but I spilled one mimosa on my favorite tablecloth, so I washed it.
Hope you enjoy your day (and your mom) wherever you are! Not everyone is able to do so. I still miss my mom, who has been gone for many years now.
More to come...
Friday, May 8, 2015
The year of ethics
The American Nurses Association declared 2015 the Year of Ethics. They also updated their Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements this year, too.
Lately, there are lots of ethics issues in the news. This recent article series talks about risks for manicurists calls into question the ethics of nail salons. There are sections of major newspapers discussing everything from genomic issues to the latest celebrity ethical dilemma.
In the Hotel, we deal with issues, too. Is it ethical to share your cell phone number so patients can call you back promptly when the phones in the facility don't always work? Is it ethical to be Facebook friends with patients? Is it ethical to deny certain patients items during care that aren't denied of similar patients, when there is no risk to health and safety? Are prejudices appropriate as health care providers?
So many things to consider this year, and every day.
We are the most trusted profession after all. Shouldn't we be ethical?
More to come...
Lately, there are lots of ethics issues in the news. This recent article series talks about risks for manicurists calls into question the ethics of nail salons. There are sections of major newspapers discussing everything from genomic issues to the latest celebrity ethical dilemma.
In the Hotel, we deal with issues, too. Is it ethical to share your cell phone number so patients can call you back promptly when the phones in the facility don't always work? Is it ethical to be Facebook friends with patients? Is it ethical to deny certain patients items during care that aren't denied of similar patients, when there is no risk to health and safety? Are prejudices appropriate as health care providers?
So many things to consider this year, and every day.
We are the most trusted profession after all. Shouldn't we be ethical?
More to come...
Wednesday, May 6, 2015
Happy Nurses' Week
Don't be fooled by the teddy bear in this video by Kronos (aka the time clock people). This is a darned fine little infomercial on nursing if I ever saw one.
And I'm proud to say, I actually know one of the people mentioned. She is a pioneer and relentless. If I am ever half the nurse she is, I'll be able to say I contributed something to this world of nursing.
It's your day and your week. Celebrate the best of nursing, because you give it every day. Cheers!
And I'm proud to say, I actually know one of the people mentioned. She is a pioneer and relentless. If I am ever half the nurse she is, I'll be able to say I contributed something to this world of nursing.
It's your day and your week. Celebrate the best of nursing, because you give it every day. Cheers!
The keys to the keys
I read this article recently, and realized I do this a lot. I am being a sadomasochist nurse trying to cram a whole bunch of stuff into my brain.
Thank goodness I can't lose the keys in the patient laundry hampers anymore. (Sorry for the mental picture, but it has happened to me inadvertently).
That is all. Happy Hump Day.
Thank goodness I can't lose the keys in the patient laundry hampers anymore. (Sorry for the mental picture, but it has happened to me inadvertently).
That is all. Happy Hump Day.
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
Observations at work
Jo described a nurse she works with in this post over at Head Nurse. I had a good time reading the comments because it reminded me of some of the "get in to go somewhere else" folks we keep getting at our Hotel unit at Washington.
Why do the words, "Oh, I'll just go apply somewhere else" rankle me? Because they are often coming out of the mouths of the newly oriented. Really? You couldn't have done your homework which would have told you this is a unit part of a rehab hospital? You just want to whine about it and you just got here?
I digress....
What I really wanted to talk about is this article. I know this phenomena is not contained to men, but they are the main culprits. I see this in a committee I work on. The guy is "so busy" that all he can do is let that lil' ol' multiple thousands of dollars project wait because no one knows how the back end process works.
Really? Hello people! That's what the BUSINESS side folks are for. Bug them! They LOVE it because it's THEIR job. They don't want to be clinical. They want to buff the machinery of the business processes of a hospital and make it work. I need the project management fairy to come and hit him over the head with her magic Project wand.
Occasionally, you have a nurse like me who gets it (that former life helps) but even I don't know everything. That's why I defer to the experts. That's why I keep asking you to ask them to show up at our meetings. It would be nice to solve some problems instead of talk about them the whole time.
That is all. I'm celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a nice, cool beverage, which will help me forget all of this mess. Hope you enjoy your day wherever you are, margarita or not.
More later.
Why do the words, "Oh, I'll just go apply somewhere else" rankle me? Because they are often coming out of the mouths of the newly oriented. Really? You couldn't have done your homework which would have told you this is a unit part of a rehab hospital? You just want to whine about it and you just got here?
I digress....
What I really wanted to talk about is this article. I know this phenomena is not contained to men, but they are the main culprits. I see this in a committee I work on. The guy is "so busy" that all he can do is let that lil' ol' multiple thousands of dollars project wait because no one knows how the back end process works.
Really? Hello people! That's what the BUSINESS side folks are for. Bug them! They LOVE it because it's THEIR job. They don't want to be clinical. They want to buff the machinery of the business processes of a hospital and make it work. I need the project management fairy to come and hit him over the head with her magic Project wand.
Occasionally, you have a nurse like me who gets it (that former life helps) but even I don't know everything. That's why I defer to the experts. That's why I keep asking you to ask them to show up at our meetings. It would be nice to solve some problems instead of talk about them the whole time.
That is all. I'm celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a nice, cool beverage, which will help me forget all of this mess. Hope you enjoy your day wherever you are, margarita or not.
More later.
Monday, May 4, 2015
School is ALMOST out
But I think Bubba's mind is turning to mush already. We worked on the health class project this weekend and of course, had to make last minute changes today before school. However, Bubba forgot to have me sign something this week, so he lost some points for this week. I sign whatever is in front of me, but I make him be responsible.
Tonight, for some physical activity, we decided to go to the rec center, shoot hoops and then play some pickleball. We really just practiced while a foursome played, but Bubba got to learn some skills and watch people play. Hopefully, this summer, he'll get to play with other kids (and not boring old grownups).
Just counting down the days...stay tuned!
Tonight, for some physical activity, we decided to go to the rec center, shoot hoops and then play some pickleball. We really just practiced while a foursome played, but Bubba got to learn some skills and watch people play. Hopefully, this summer, he'll get to play with other kids (and not boring old grownups).
Just counting down the days...stay tuned!
Saturday, May 2, 2015
How to know you are sleep deprived
I had great plans for this Saturday early morning. I didn't make it.
Guess I needed to sleep in more than I thought!
Happy weekend wherever you are!
Guess I needed to sleep in more than I thought!
Happy weekend wherever you are!
Friday, May 1, 2015
As heard on the radio
A few months ago, I heard an advertisement on the radio for a drug study for a compound like this. I never realized the gravity of non 24 syndrome until I took care of a blind patient. Mrs. Z. was always tired in therapy when I worked at Saintarama. This drug came a few years too late for her.
Here at the Hotel, we are fortunate that we have a blind rehabilitation program next door. It's really amazing what they do.
The thing that stunned me when I read this most recent article was this: "...wholesale cost (per capsule) for this drug is $324."
An enormous amount of money for folks who just want to be able to sleep at the right time.
Stay tuned!
Here at the Hotel, we are fortunate that we have a blind rehabilitation program next door. It's really amazing what they do.
The thing that stunned me when I read this most recent article was this: "...wholesale cost (per capsule) for this drug is $324."
An enormous amount of money for folks who just want to be able to sleep at the right time.
Stay tuned!
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Hope turns to sadness
This patient's journey to us for rehab was long and arduous. One day you're minding your own business and start having these unusual pains. They find out you have this terrible condition.
The doctors save your life, but it was rough. You seem to be getting better when all Hades breaks loose. You go back to the OR, get almost triple digits of PRBCs, and abdominal washout and have all sorts of complications. You lose so many things. But you are here with us, so you are hopeful.
You come to us, are barely here a week, and we have to send you to World Renown, because we aren't staffed (in surgery or anywhere else) to resolve your latest issue. Unfortunately, we have seen this scenario before. You have a problem even World Renown can't fix. They send you back.
They leave us to tell you the bad news. You cry and yell. But to me and the other nurses, you are nice. You're not sure of what's going to happen, but I tell you, that no matter what I'm here with the staff for you to help give you some control in your room; to help you do what you need to do.
It is bittersweet. I have seen this before, and while the characters change, the stories all end the same. I just hope we can make some good memories before the clock runs out.
Stay tuned.
The doctors save your life, but it was rough. You seem to be getting better when all Hades breaks loose. You go back to the OR, get almost triple digits of PRBCs, and abdominal washout and have all sorts of complications. You lose so many things. But you are here with us, so you are hopeful.
You come to us, are barely here a week, and we have to send you to World Renown, because we aren't staffed (in surgery or anywhere else) to resolve your latest issue. Unfortunately, we have seen this scenario before. You have a problem even World Renown can't fix. They send you back.
They leave us to tell you the bad news. You cry and yell. But to me and the other nurses, you are nice. You're not sure of what's going to happen, but I tell you, that no matter what I'm here with the staff for you to help give you some control in your room; to help you do what you need to do.
It is bittersweet. I have seen this before, and while the characters change, the stories all end the same. I just hope we can make some good memories before the clock runs out.
Stay tuned.
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Reeducating the boss
My task this week: bring a boss up to speed when I've sent e-mails.
The ones I sent (meant to be on top) got buried in 400+ when he/she had to take an extra week of sick leave.
More to come...
The ones I sent (meant to be on top) got buried in 400+ when he/she had to take an extra week of sick leave.
More to come...
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Sunday funnies
Disclaimer: I am one of those people who enjoys reading obituaries and wedding announcements. (A trait I inherited from both my parents, for whom this was a sport).
Some obits are sober and fact-filled. Others are downright entertaining. We occasionally have a good one here in RehabLand's Old Reliable News, but for regular reading, I always check the New York Times.
So needless to say when I read this lawyer and dentist's wedding announcement, at first, it looked pretty typical. However, when you read it all the way through, you see what is really important in life, even for a dentist.
Enjoy your day wherever you are! Remember, life is short, so make it memorable.
More later...
Some obits are sober and fact-filled. Others are downright entertaining. We occasionally have a good one here in RehabLand's Old Reliable News, but for regular reading, I always check the New York Times.
So needless to say when I read this lawyer and dentist's wedding announcement, at first, it looked pretty typical. However, when you read it all the way through, you see what is really important in life, even for a dentist.
Enjoy your day wherever you are! Remember, life is short, so make it memorable.
More later...
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Here comes the rain again
April showers do bring May flowers, but after those showers get mixed in with tornado watches and warnings, I get a little edgy. It fits the mood, though. I'm still a little melancholy after this week.
Thankfully, the latest tornado watch was called off so Bubba could go to his track meet, hang out and have fun while Dahey and I had a date night. We went to a neighborhood I grew up in (which has since become moderately gentrified) to a restaurant I've wanted to try. It was nostalgia: some things change and some things stay the same. Thankfully, the food was good, the beer was cold, and the various games were on the (baseball, hockey, etc.) TV so Dahey could follow along.
Since we were on a nostalgia trek, Dahey decided to drive to a shopping mall we walked in a lot while we were dating. A lot of stores are gone, but some old reliables got bigger. They even got an Apple Store in this particular mall. Which of course, made Dahey want a new phone. Thankfully, his problems can be resolved by sending his phone in for repair, which will be done this week (thank goodness!)
Now, I'm back to doing my volunteer homework. Sometimes this is a time-consuming activity, but other times, it's a lot of fun.
Enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Thankfully, the latest tornado watch was called off so Bubba could go to his track meet, hang out and have fun while Dahey and I had a date night. We went to a neighborhood I grew up in (which has since become moderately gentrified) to a restaurant I've wanted to try. It was nostalgia: some things change and some things stay the same. Thankfully, the food was good, the beer was cold, and the various games were on the (baseball, hockey, etc.) TV so Dahey could follow along.
Since we were on a nostalgia trek, Dahey decided to drive to a shopping mall we walked in a lot while we were dating. A lot of stores are gone, but some old reliables got bigger. They even got an Apple Store in this particular mall. Which of course, made Dahey want a new phone. Thankfully, his problems can be resolved by sending his phone in for repair, which will be done this week (thank goodness!)
Now, I'm back to doing my volunteer homework. Sometimes this is a time-consuming activity, but other times, it's a lot of fun.
Enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Dodging bullets
Dahey dodged one on Monday. He was not selected for layoff (or furlough) at his job. What's the reason? Working without a contract, the firm on his job site finally ran out of money. It closed one location. Federal contracting isn't all it's cracked up to be if the government can't decide.
I didn't dodge a bullet, but I missed one thing. My chance to get out of the Hotel is dashed for now. I just need to look at a few things, then decide when to try again. I told someone if they talked about it too much, it might not come true. (From years of experience, I keep my mouth shut). It was only a transfer opportunity, but after four years of this, I feel like moving on.
I hate it when I'm right.
More to come...
I didn't dodge a bullet, but I missed one thing. My chance to get out of the Hotel is dashed for now. I just need to look at a few things, then decide when to try again. I told someone if they talked about it too much, it might not come true. (From years of experience, I keep my mouth shut). It was only a transfer opportunity, but after four years of this, I feel like moving on.
I hate it when I'm right.
More to come...
Friday, April 17, 2015
TGIF fun
It was gorgeous! The pollen may be high and driving Bubba crazy, but it was beautiful. I took my friend K. to Washington to get some admin stuff out of the way and I checked in on a new patient in our acute wing. We stopped by and grabbed lunch on the way back to the Hotel, so I could sit outside at work on the patio and enjoy the glory of a bright, sunny day.
K. had lots to do so she had to go back to her desk in the inventory department. It was sad we couldn't enjoy lunch together. I really miss her now that she's back in that group full-time. We don't see each other often, even though, we're on the same hospital campus.
I got a lot of work done, because I opened the blinds to look out regularly, and whenever I could, I stepped out the front door and just looked around. As my Irish grandma used to say, you need to go outside "and get the stink blown off you." Maybe life's not a smelly, but yes, fresh air is good!
My favorite specialist (Dr. E.I.) came to see us for a Grand Rounds that Hippy Nurse planned on her favorite topic. However, HN didn't quite complete her task: she forgot to show up today. I'll remind her (and her nurse manager) that she's really not too good on completing tasks. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated event. Working behind her on the floor is a nightmare. Some things she does beautifully (she can get an IV in just about anyone) but some things really vary (like charting, turning and paying attention to detail). They vary because it depends on how enthralled she is on Facebook that day. Other staff and patients complain, but nothing (including her work) never seems to get done some days. Needless to say, other shifts get angry. This is just one (of many reasons) I don't miss working the floor.
But nothing could stop me from running out the door when the day was done. It was just too pretty.
Hope your weekend is beautiful, too, wherever you are.
K. had lots to do so she had to go back to her desk in the inventory department. It was sad we couldn't enjoy lunch together. I really miss her now that she's back in that group full-time. We don't see each other often, even though, we're on the same hospital campus.
I got a lot of work done, because I opened the blinds to look out regularly, and whenever I could, I stepped out the front door and just looked around. As my Irish grandma used to say, you need to go outside "and get the stink blown off you." Maybe life's not a smelly, but yes, fresh air is good!
My favorite specialist (Dr. E.I.) came to see us for a Grand Rounds that Hippy Nurse planned on her favorite topic. However, HN didn't quite complete her task: she forgot to show up today. I'll remind her (and her nurse manager) that she's really not too good on completing tasks. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated event. Working behind her on the floor is a nightmare. Some things she does beautifully (she can get an IV in just about anyone) but some things really vary (like charting, turning and paying attention to detail). They vary because it depends on how enthralled she is on Facebook that day. Other staff and patients complain, but nothing (including her work) never seems to get done some days. Needless to say, other shifts get angry. This is just one (of many reasons) I don't miss working the floor.
But nothing could stop me from running out the door when the day was done. It was just too pretty.
Hope your weekend is beautiful, too, wherever you are.
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Gone but not forgotten
She got ready and she took the train to glory.
RIP my pharmacist friend (and nursing school seatmate).
I will miss you (and your caring, gentle, hilarious soul) forever. May they find a cure soon.
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Six kinds of crazy
1. You don't get enough sleep, then have to go to work. Ugh!
2. Your procrastinating husband decides to empty a storage locker on the day before the rent on it is due. You're required to come along to haul back all thec#$p, er, stuff.
3. You find your lunch in the office fridge after it had been there too long.
4. People who really need to read e-mails don't do it. Thankfully, that read receipt thing on your e-mail system allows you to prove to the manager, that, yes, indeed, the Slug may have heard you, but you have no idea if he/she comprehended, since there's no proof he/she can read.
5. Your colleagues elsewhere in the Hotel ask "Why So and So doesn't do this/that anymore?" Hmm...ask So and So maybe?
6. You schedule a patient to see a specialist, as part of your role as a care coordinator in your hospital system. Right after you schedule the patient, the patient's attending MD finds you to tell you he/she's already going for a procedure, so can the specialist see him/her while he/she's there? Panic ensues. You calmly make three phone calls and get a plan together. Finally, you get the details done and get to go home.
And that ends your six kinds of crazy day. More excitement for another day. Enjoy yours wherever you are!
2. Your procrastinating husband decides to empty a storage locker on the day before the rent on it is due. You're required to come along to haul back all the
3. You find your lunch in the office fridge after it had been there too long.
4. People who really need to read e-mails don't do it. Thankfully, that read receipt thing on your e-mail system allows you to prove to the manager, that, yes, indeed, the Slug may have heard you, but you have no idea if he/she comprehended, since there's no proof he/she can read.
5. Your colleagues elsewhere in the Hotel ask "Why So and So doesn't do this/that anymore?" Hmm...ask So and So maybe?
6. You schedule a patient to see a specialist, as part of your role as a care coordinator in your hospital system. Right after you schedule the patient, the patient's attending MD finds you to tell you he/she's already going for a procedure, so can the specialist see him/her while he/she's there? Panic ensues. You calmly make three phone calls and get a plan together. Finally, you get the details done and get to go home.
And that ends your six kinds of crazy day. More excitement for another day. Enjoy yours wherever you are!
Monday, April 13, 2015
Monday, Monday (aka back to work)
It was a brief trip to MegaConference and it was fun. I even met some new friends on my whirlwind tour. I tried to meet one nurse blogger, but she wasn't coming in, until I left town. I got lots of looks at my poster and made sure I didn't take a single handout home, by using a couple of marketing gimmicks. (I marked my literature holder--aka a brown envelope--with the words TRADE SECRETS).
All that business experience helped. I also corralled a spot near my poster and carefully set my coat and a notebook there (with a glass) so I could go between sessions and not lose my spot. (We were expected to be by the poster at break times, so...)
Dahey and Bubba drove around the town exploring, watching dogs and sailboats. Bubba also proved that kids needing to go to the bathroom is really a universally understood problem, no matter in what sort of ethnic neighborhood you may find yourself. They also saw a movie, which was a good excuse for Dahey to find a dark place with a comfy chair for a nap. (We got up really early to get me to the conference on time, since our hotel was far away in the suburbs.)
There was a party once the session was over, but I literally had to fly out of there, after I talked to an exec I had tweeted to during the sessions. It was nice to finally meet her after conversing back and forth. It was bedlam--cars, taxis, buses, everywhere. It was a miracle Dahey and Bubba could get to me amidst all the masses escaping the conference hall looking for a ride. I was really happy one of the staffers there was able to get us back to the highway to RehabLand.
It was literally down the street and around one corner. So we drove away into the evening to RehabLand.
Today was a long day with lots of caffeine infusions. My last one is wearing off, so I will say good night.
More fun to come...
All that business experience helped. I also corralled a spot near my poster and carefully set my coat and a notebook there (with a glass) so I could go between sessions and not lose my spot. (We were expected to be by the poster at break times, so...)
Dahey and Bubba drove around the town exploring, watching dogs and sailboats. Bubba also proved that kids needing to go to the bathroom is really a universally understood problem, no matter in what sort of ethnic neighborhood you may find yourself. They also saw a movie, which was a good excuse for Dahey to find a dark place with a comfy chair for a nap. (We got up really early to get me to the conference on time, since our hotel was far away in the suburbs.)
There was a party once the session was over, but I literally had to fly out of there, after I talked to an exec I had tweeted to during the sessions. It was nice to finally meet her after conversing back and forth. It was bedlam--cars, taxis, buses, everywhere. It was a miracle Dahey and Bubba could get to me amidst all the masses escaping the conference hall looking for a ride. I was really happy one of the staffers there was able to get us back to the highway to RehabLand.
It was literally down the street and around one corner. So we drove away into the evening to RehabLand.
Today was a long day with lots of caffeine infusions. My last one is wearing off, so I will say good night.
More fun to come...
Saturday, April 11, 2015
I see it every day - Lessons in life
When you work in a rehab center with spinal cord injury patients (SCI), you hear the themes in this opinion piece from the Wall Street Journal a lot.
Remember: just because someone is in a wheelchair and can't move much at all, doesn't mean their brain doesn't work (or their mouth).
Talk to the person in the wheelchair, not their companions. That is all.
Happy weekend wherever you may be.
Remember: just because someone is in a wheelchair and can't move much at all, doesn't mean their brain doesn't work (or their mouth).
Talk to the person in the wheelchair, not their companions. That is all.
Happy weekend wherever you may be.
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Random thoughts
It's a stormy day already here in RehabLand, and Bubba's up early wanting donuts. My head is splitting. AND I double booked myself at work today. I can't wait for this day to be over.
Here are a few points to ponder:
There's always some new technology to learn in nursing. It just amazes me, though, that some people figure out how to "game" it as soon as they can. It really gets scary when this gaming potentially interferes with care.
There's an updated version of this code, but somehow, I don't think people like the Slug actually read (or practice) it.
If you get tired of the bullies, check out this advice on bullying or parallel violence from Katie Duke.
And finally, if you want to feel good about what you do, no matter what, check out this post from KevinMD.
Thank you patients. You are the reason why we are all here.
More later...
Here are a few points to ponder:
There's always some new technology to learn in nursing. It just amazes me, though, that some people figure out how to "game" it as soon as they can. It really gets scary when this gaming potentially interferes with care.
There's an updated version of this code, but somehow, I don't think people like the Slug actually read (or practice) it.
If you get tired of the bullies, check out this advice on bullying or parallel violence from Katie Duke.
And finally, if you want to feel good about what you do, no matter what, check out this post from KevinMD.
Thank you patients. You are the reason why we are all here.
More later...
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Happy Easter
And if you don't celebrate Easter, I wish you a blessed Passover. Don't celebrate that either? If you were here in RehabLand today, it was glorious. Enjoy the spring weather wherever you are. It only comes once a year.
I didn't fall off the earth, I got a little busy this week exercising and watching various astronomical phenomena, like a little space station buzzing by and the latest Blood Moon.
Bubba, Dahey and I finally went out for the brunch that was so rudely interrupted by a terrible virus for Dahey's birthday weekend last weekend. It was a good coincidence that it was Easter, since I was fortunate enough to excuse myself from galley slavery with some of my relatives. That felt just as glorious as the weather. Since we went to one of our favorite pizzerias last night, we had leftovers for dinner so I did no cooking AT ALL. Ah! My idea of a wonderful day.
I did have a temporary lapse when I decided to thoroughly vacuum and mop all the floors upstairs. I corralled Dahey and Bubba in the basement, so I got to enjoy the quiet and drying when the floors were done. For one, brief, shining moment (in a house where everyone must wear shoes with a soon-to-be teenager who is constantly eating) they were clean.
Now, we're getting ready for the big chamber music night at Bubba's neighborhood junior high. He's going to play this song with some other brass players. Sounds like it will be a tuneup for the Spring Concert in a few weeks and the auditions for the symphony and jazz band groups. Bubba was so excited to wear a suit to church today, that I will be very surprised if he doesn't go formal for the next concert. He looks very longingly at some of those tuxedos when we are out shopping.
Work is still work. I have to go back for a full week tomorrow. I need a day off every week to motivate me, but I don't think that will ever happen. It would be nice, though. I'd like to know if I'm going to get another job at the Hotel, but with my luck (and our illustrious HR department), I'll be waiting six more weeks to find out. Nothing ever happens fast.
I'm going to stop here. All the cleaning and fun have made me tired today. I bid you all a good night wherever you are.
Stay tuned...
I didn't fall off the earth, I got a little busy this week exercising and watching various astronomical phenomena, like a little space station buzzing by and the latest Blood Moon.
Bubba, Dahey and I finally went out for the brunch that was so rudely interrupted by a terrible virus for Dahey's birthday weekend last weekend. It was a good coincidence that it was Easter, since I was fortunate enough to excuse myself from galley slavery with some of my relatives. That felt just as glorious as the weather. Since we went to one of our favorite pizzerias last night, we had leftovers for dinner so I did no cooking AT ALL. Ah! My idea of a wonderful day.
I did have a temporary lapse when I decided to thoroughly vacuum and mop all the floors upstairs. I corralled Dahey and Bubba in the basement, so I got to enjoy the quiet and drying when the floors were done. For one, brief, shining moment (in a house where everyone must wear shoes with a soon-to-be teenager who is constantly eating) they were clean.
Now, we're getting ready for the big chamber music night at Bubba's neighborhood junior high. He's going to play this song with some other brass players. Sounds like it will be a tuneup for the Spring Concert in a few weeks and the auditions for the symphony and jazz band groups. Bubba was so excited to wear a suit to church today, that I will be very surprised if he doesn't go formal for the next concert. He looks very longingly at some of those tuxedos when we are out shopping.
Work is still work. I have to go back for a full week tomorrow. I need a day off every week to motivate me, but I don't think that will ever happen. It would be nice, though. I'd like to know if I'm going to get another job at the Hotel, but with my luck (and our illustrious HR department), I'll be waiting six more weeks to find out. Nothing ever happens fast.
I'm going to stop here. All the cleaning and fun have made me tired today. I bid you all a good night wherever you are.
Stay tuned...
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