I didn't get my spring break while Bubba was off, because I escaped the Hotel to travel.
Happy weekend, all, wherever you may roam!
Cheers!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
You never forget
The people who die because of medical errors. One patient of ours died last year of ignorance, when a provider just didn't know what to do, and help was too far away.
Consequently, I read this PDF from the National Patient Safety Foundation a little more closely.
It is terrible that they died, but to have them die in vain, is far worse.
Consequently, I read this PDF from the National Patient Safety Foundation a little more closely.
It is terrible that they died, but to have them die in vain, is far worse.
Monday, March 24, 2014
Share the love
I really like reading other blogs. Nursing blogs, doctor blogs, you name it.
So today, I'm going to share the love for one of my favorite all-time MD blogs, KevinMD.
While I was enjoying some quality time with Bubba (recuperating from running around on his spring break when I could), I perused blogs I haven't had the chance to really read in a while.
KevinMD had some posts that I really enjoyed. Hope you do, too.
So today, I'm going to share the love for one of my favorite all-time MD blogs, KevinMD.
While I was enjoying some quality time with Bubba (recuperating from running around on his spring break when I could), I perused blogs I haven't had the chance to really read in a while.
KevinMD had some posts that I really enjoyed. Hope you do, too.
- Have you ever felt that you've been profiled by your doctor? I have (I've been that "asks too many questions" relative). This article was illuminating and had plenty of examples.
- CYA medicine? Yes, it really does exist.
- People die without love. Sad and so very true.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Spring break diversions
Yes, to keep the vacation atmosphere around here for one little boy: let's go out to eat more than usual. At least that part seemed like a vacation, even when you're staying home, and the parents are working.
I decided if I ever want to be a nursing instructor when I grow up, I ought to take some more education classes before I run out and get a terminal degree. I've been checking out MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) from all over the world here. It seems like a better option than handing over my checkbook for every class.
I actually found a nice course by Curtis Bonk (yes, it's his real name) about using technology in teaching on one of the sites. I knew of a few, but the MOOC list has many I had never even heard of at all.
Professor Bonk has some interesting viewpoints.
1. You need critical friends, web buddies, e-mail pals in online classes.
2. Your blog will be there 100 years later. What you post today might be usable tomorrow. Your digital history may be available for centuries. (Wow was my first thought). The professor mentioned a friend who published the Come and see Africa blog. The author's died in 2010 in a car accident. Her blog remains.
This tidbit of that course provided a lot of food for thought today.I can only imagine what rehab nursing will be like in 100 years, and what would they think of this blog?
Today, I read an article that people are still trying to keep rehab hospitals relevant, when the pointy haired policy wonks want to send everyone to a skilled (nursing home) care facility for rehab.
Only time will tell...enjoy your night wherever you are.
I decided if I ever want to be a nursing instructor when I grow up, I ought to take some more education classes before I run out and get a terminal degree. I've been checking out MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) from all over the world here. It seems like a better option than handing over my checkbook for every class.
I actually found a nice course by Curtis Bonk (yes, it's his real name) about using technology in teaching on one of the sites. I knew of a few, but the MOOC list has many I had never even heard of at all.
Professor Bonk has some interesting viewpoints.
1. You need critical friends, web buddies, e-mail pals in online classes.
2. Your blog will be there 100 years later. What you post today might be usable tomorrow. Your digital history may be available for centuries. (Wow was my first thought). The professor mentioned a friend who published the Come and see Africa blog. The author's died in 2010 in a car accident. Her blog remains.
This tidbit of that course provided a lot of food for thought today.I can only imagine what rehab nursing will be like in 100 years, and what would they think of this blog?
Today, I read an article that people are still trying to keep rehab hospitals relevant, when the pointy haired policy wonks want to send everyone to a skilled (nursing home) care facility for rehab.
Only time will tell...enjoy your night wherever you are.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
If you're nice, they'll call you back
Ah, the fun times today discussing how nurses and pharmacists have fun talking to patients and customers.
Yes, it is really true.
And for all of you certified RNs out there, Happy Certified Nurses' Day. You go the extra mile and you rock.
From one certified nurse to another, I raise my glass...cheers!
Yes, it is really true.
And for all of you certified RNs out there, Happy Certified Nurses' Day. You go the extra mile and you rock.
From one certified nurse to another, I raise my glass...cheers!
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Bonding with Bubba
Oh, the fun and excitement of living with a tween boy who is spring break staycationing.
1. Bubba thinks he's immune to taking baths or showers (and he loves swimming). I'm reminding him that he really does need to clean the cracks and crevices more than he does.
2. Since Dahey had to work, I took him to soccer. His team lost. He was sad. Dahey got updates via text and phone, though. The team got lots of shots, but nothing would go into the goal.
3. We took my sister out to lunch. Both of them are never happier than in an eating establishment. No one is ever bored with food around.
4. Movies are on the agenda, but since it was later in the day when we got home, I decided to hold off on seeing Mr. Peabody and Sherman, but we had to get Thor.
I was so tired from my crazy week, I promptly feel asleep during most of the movie.
Ah, togetherness...
1. Bubba thinks he's immune to taking baths or showers (and he loves swimming). I'm reminding him that he really does need to clean the cracks and crevices more than he does.
2. Since Dahey had to work, I took him to soccer. His team lost. He was sad. Dahey got updates via text and phone, though. The team got lots of shots, but nothing would go into the goal.
3. We took my sister out to lunch. Both of them are never happier than in an eating establishment. No one is ever bored with food around.
4. Movies are on the agenda, but since it was later in the day when we got home, I decided to hold off on seeing Mr. Peabody and Sherman, but we had to get Thor.
I was so tired from my crazy week, I promptly feel asleep during most of the movie.
Ah, togetherness...
Friday, March 14, 2014
Spring break TGIF
Oh, how I wish I could run away on spring break with Bubba. Fun, fun, fun.
Since I didn't get the winning lottery ticket, being off this weekend will have to be enough for now.
Stay tuned...
Since I didn't get the winning lottery ticket, being off this weekend will have to be enough for now.
Stay tuned...
I was in charge of reading this stuff once...
There are no tea leaves at the Hotel unless one of the nurses brings them in or someone tears up one of our fine no-name teabags.
However, rehab nurses, especially on certain shifts, get really good at reading the signs in stool.
Yes, as they taught you in school, color and consistency do matter.
Back to the old grind...
However, rehab nurses, especially on certain shifts, get really good at reading the signs in stool.
Yes, as they taught you in school, color and consistency do matter.
Back to the old grind...
Thursday, March 13, 2014
If you're looking for a job at the Hotel
Dear Interviewee:
Thank you for coming to the interview. Here are a few tips:
1. Please be on time. If not, call as soon as possible. Don't turn off your cell phone or just don't answer.
2. When we ask a question, you may answer. There is a reason why we read the questions in advance and give you a copy.
3. If you are too tired from working night shift, please reschedule. Coming in and falling asleep (the silences give you away) during the interview is really not a good thing.
4. When the nurse manager asks what your schedule preference is, please tell him/her. Better to get it out now what kind of schedule you want than not to get it and quit before you are oriented.
If you can't do some (or really all) of these, please decline the interview. We could be spending our time with someone else who really likes to be a nurse and wants to show up every day.
Very sincerely yours ('cause if you don't want to be here, it doesn't hurt me),
RehabRN
Thank you for coming to the interview. Here are a few tips:
1. Please be on time. If not, call as soon as possible. Don't turn off your cell phone or just don't answer.
2. When we ask a question, you may answer. There is a reason why we read the questions in advance and give you a copy.
3. If you are too tired from working night shift, please reschedule. Coming in and falling asleep (the silences give you away) during the interview is really not a good thing.
4. When the nurse manager asks what your schedule preference is, please tell him/her. Better to get it out now what kind of schedule you want than not to get it and quit before you are oriented.
If you can't do some (or really all) of these, please decline the interview. We could be spending our time with someone else who really likes to be a nurse and wants to show up every day.
Very sincerely yours ('cause if you don't want to be here, it doesn't hurt me),
RehabRN
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Monday, March 10, 2014
Sniff it out
A few studies have noted the ability of dogs to correctly diagnose cancer in some people.
It's just amazing now that scientists have figured out how to replicate this with devices.
Wonders never cease.
Happy Monday!
It's just amazing now that scientists have figured out how to replicate this with devices.
Wonders never cease.
Happy Monday!
Saturday, March 8, 2014
The randomness of life
I really enjoyed this story about a lady winning the lottery by playing her fortune cookie numbers. The odds may be slim, but at least, they were in her favor for one draw.
The randomness of life hit me when I watched the news today and saw a familiar face. My BLS instructor, a big burly fireman, who taught at the community college here in RehabLand, was killed in a drunk driving accident. A woman was charged today.
He wasn't wearing his seatbelt while off-duty. The same guy who stressed how "seconds count", was himself gone in an instant.
Just makes me want to live this randomness to the fullest.
Because you just never know when your lotto numbers will win, or when someone you love won't be around.
Stay tuned...
The randomness of life hit me when I watched the news today and saw a familiar face. My BLS instructor, a big burly fireman, who taught at the community college here in RehabLand, was killed in a drunk driving accident. A woman was charged today.
He wasn't wearing his seatbelt while off-duty. The same guy who stressed how "seconds count", was himself gone in an instant.
Just makes me want to live this randomness to the fullest.
Because you just never know when your lotto numbers will win, or when someone you love won't be around.
Stay tuned...
Friday, March 7, 2014
An unbelievable story
Rehab is so earth-shattering, that you just might change your name.
(face-plant)
I'm glad it's a slow news day...
(face-plant)
I'm glad it's a slow news day...
Thursday, March 6, 2014
I need a t-shirt that says
"I survived jury duty". I did. I did. I did.
What did I miss in the years I did not get called and picked to serve on a jury? Not much.
A few things I learned though, were very important.
1. Don't let your lawyer clown it up on the opening arguments. He/she should be reasonable and convincing, but bouncing binders in front of the jury to get their attention is not the way to do that. It gave me a headache.
2. Tell the truth. Or at least be expected to use the same story over and over. You know that oath "thingy"? Yes, it applies to you.
3. Related to #2, never swear that you never use the phone. There are records.
4. Don't hire one of your own employees to serve as your "expert witness". It is a little thing called conflict of interest for him/her to participate.
5. Don't repeatedly say your client knows nothing about business, because he/she has been at it for a few years...like 40. Despite everything, the business is solvent, so who's at the wheel?
6. Always be explicit. Some folks, for whom English is a second language, may not understand things that are implied, especially in e-mails.
7. Don't use easels to display e-mail quotes that you've circulated ad nauseum in the courtroom. I got tired of looking at your not-so-hot quotes on foam board.
And finally, one of the most important things I learned from jury duty:
Take every moment you can to enjoy a moment outside in the sunshine. You will never get enough of those. Criminals and crazy relatives tend to stick around, but sunshine doesn't, so enjoy it while you can.
More to come...
What did I miss in the years I did not get called and picked to serve on a jury? Not much.
A few things I learned though, were very important.
1. Don't let your lawyer clown it up on the opening arguments. He/she should be reasonable and convincing, but bouncing binders in front of the jury to get their attention is not the way to do that. It gave me a headache.
2. Tell the truth. Or at least be expected to use the same story over and over. You know that oath "thingy"? Yes, it applies to you.
3. Related to #2, never swear that you never use the phone. There are records.
4. Don't hire one of your own employees to serve as your "expert witness". It is a little thing called conflict of interest for him/her to participate.
5. Don't repeatedly say your client knows nothing about business, because he/she has been at it for a few years...like 40. Despite everything, the business is solvent, so who's at the wheel?
6. Always be explicit. Some folks, for whom English is a second language, may not understand things that are implied, especially in e-mails.
7. Don't use easels to display e-mail quotes that you've circulated ad nauseum in the courtroom. I got tired of looking at your not-so-hot quotes on foam board.
And finally, one of the most important things I learned from jury duty:
Take every moment you can to enjoy a moment outside in the sunshine. You will never get enough of those. Criminals and crazy relatives tend to stick around, but sunshine doesn't, so enjoy it while you can.
More to come...
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
The joys of jury duty
Jury duty can be a blessing, or a curse.
Some of the perks/hazards/interesting things:
1. It gets you out of the office. Plenty of interesting folks hang around courthouses. And even more pay traffic (or parking) tickets.
2. You could get sequestered.
2. You know it will get interesting if the folks can't follow directions at the metal detectors.
3. It's also sad seeing the little old people there (many because they need a conservator.)
4. At lunch time, you can eat, shop and roam around. (Lunches for court staff under an hour are rare in our neck of the woods).
5. Finally, you realize that your job's not so bad after all, your family's not totally silly and the food at the Hotel cafeteria really is pretty good.
And soon enough, it will be time to go home again, back to reality.
That is all...stay tuned.
Some of the perks/hazards/interesting things:
1. It gets you out of the office. Plenty of interesting folks hang around courthouses. And even more pay traffic (or parking) tickets.
2. You could get sequestered.
2. You know it will get interesting if the folks can't follow directions at the metal detectors.
3. It's also sad seeing the little old people there (many because they need a conservator.)
4. At lunch time, you can eat, shop and roam around. (Lunches for court staff under an hour are rare in our neck of the woods).
5. Finally, you realize that your job's not so bad after all, your family's not totally silly and the food at the Hotel cafeteria really is pretty good.
And soon enough, it will be time to go home again, back to reality.
That is all...stay tuned.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
You just gotta ask
Yes, we ask on our admission form if you have any guns, knives or other contraband items when you come to the Hotel.
Dr. Grumpy has an article about what happens when you don't.
Moral of the story: NEVER assume. (ever)
Dr. Grumpy has an article about what happens when you don't.
Moral of the story: NEVER assume. (ever)
Saturday, March 1, 2014
The darnedest things
I love gadgets and technology, in part, because my job uses a lot of various technology at the Hotel.
However, when I read this article about dangers of wearable computers, some things just stood out.
1. Lifeblogging? Really? The Truman Show is so not HIPAA, kids.
2.Google Glass. Same as #1. I'm just waiting for a policy at the Hotel.
3. The wearable/embedded device issue. Yes, I'm not really impressed with Dick Cheney and would not go hunting with him, but he does have a point.
4. Cop cam will show who is getting the free donuts and sodas...just sayin'.
5. Smartwatches. Duh! If you have a smartphone policy, just upgrade it appropriately.
6. I like the smart clothing idea, but I don't like the thought of someone making me wear it to work. The authors do have some valid points, and this type of clothing would be valuable for my Hotel patients.
7. Fitbit and insurance rates. I don't like it. Reminds me of that bad "nurses go to heaven" joke, only the HMO nurse doesn't have any repercussions.
Just my $0.02...feel free to chime in.
However, when I read this article about dangers of wearable computers, some things just stood out.
1. Lifeblogging? Really? The Truman Show is so not HIPAA, kids.
2.Google Glass. Same as #1. I'm just waiting for a policy at the Hotel.
3. The wearable/embedded device issue. Yes, I'm not really impressed with Dick Cheney and would not go hunting with him, but he does have a point.
4. Cop cam will show who is getting the free donuts and sodas...just sayin'.
5. Smartwatches. Duh! If you have a smartphone policy, just upgrade it appropriately.
6. I like the smart clothing idea, but I don't like the thought of someone making me wear it to work. The authors do have some valid points, and this type of clothing would be valuable for my Hotel patients.
7. Fitbit and insurance rates. I don't like it. Reminds me of that bad "nurses go to heaven" joke, only the HMO nurse doesn't have any repercussions.
Just my $0.02...feel free to chime in.
Hearing noises?
After reading this, you may realize that it's really nothing...or not.
I hate bugs, but bugs in body cavities...ugh! We've seen our share of maggots at the Hotel (some hospital grade, some homegrown).
I'll pass, thank you very much!
I hate bugs, but bugs in body cavities...ugh! We've seen our share of maggots at the Hotel (some hospital grade, some homegrown).
I'll pass, thank you very much!
Friday, February 28, 2014
TGIF
Or why I'm really glad it's Friday edition.
1. Some people will be on vacation next week, so it will get quiet...quiet enough to enjoy!
2. I'm going to go do my civic duty next week. I wiill be reading those books I had planned to read!
3. It's pay day. Hooray!
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are...
1. Some people will be on vacation next week, so it will get quiet...quiet enough to enjoy!
2. I'm going to go do my civic duty next week. I wiill be reading those books I had planned to read!
3. It's pay day. Hooray!
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are...
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