Did I blink during Nurses' Week and suddenly it's August? Yes, I did. And Bubba reminded me today that in two weeks, he starts high school.
What's happened? My boss was removed, then two months later resigned. When I found out why, I wasn't surprised. Basically, being a bully comes back to get you.
Bubba went to MiddleState U's Science Camp again. He had fun. We picked him up and enjoyed a weekend hotel jaunt in a suite free (that's what happens when you save years of credit card points). We ate, drank and were merry. We wouldn't miss our designated IHOP stop for anything, because it's become a tradition.
The summer of the first year of Trump has been heartening. I last switched jobs fortuitously right before the big 2008 crash.
I'm ready again, but I'm older and more leery. There are some things to be said for basic security, short commutes and decent benefits. All the folks at the Hotel eligible are getting out as soon as they can.
Nevertheless, I'm preparing for whatever fall might bring.
Stay tuned.
Showing posts with label changes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label changes. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Just when you think you have it all figured out
In the early 2000s, when I was working a progressive yet conservative financial company, we talked about the business book, Who Moved My Cheese. In a way, in the years before 9/11 it made sense.
Then 9/11 happened, and that brighter, shinier future dulled and disappeared in a cloud of smoke and fire.
As I'm finishing up my work as a volunteer for a nursing organization this week (Happy Volunteers' Week!), I thought, "Wow. I've made it. There's really been nothing extraordinary that's happened while I've been the chairperson, so I can at least say, I did it. Add this prestigious title to the list. Check."
Until recently, when that "all set scenario" changed. It might have seemed like one meeting with some organization folks and some of us nurses, but as I look back, it could be the start of something big. We are changing things in the group that could change how people join the organization and get certified.
We are looking forward to how we can change to make things better, to help a younger generation grow and prosper in rehab. To me, it's as exciting as anything.
I can't wait to say one day, "Yes, I was there when..."
Hope you have your own moments of clarity this week, too. Stay tuned...
Then 9/11 happened, and that brighter, shinier future dulled and disappeared in a cloud of smoke and fire.
As I'm finishing up my work as a volunteer for a nursing organization this week (Happy Volunteers' Week!), I thought, "Wow. I've made it. There's really been nothing extraordinary that's happened while I've been the chairperson, so I can at least say, I did it. Add this prestigious title to the list. Check."
Until recently, when that "all set scenario" changed. It might have seemed like one meeting with some organization folks and some of us nurses, but as I look back, it could be the start of something big. We are changing things in the group that could change how people join the organization and get certified.
We are looking forward to how we can change to make things better, to help a younger generation grow and prosper in rehab. To me, it's as exciting as anything.
I can't wait to say one day, "Yes, I was there when..."
Hope you have your own moments of clarity this week, too. Stay tuned...
Sunday, October 23, 2016
All in one day
I try to cram things into certain days, and others, I just use them to do administrative tasks in peace and quiet.
One day recently was a combination of both. I need peace and quiet to get things organized and completed in an efficient manner, so it worked out relatively well.
The first part of my day was great, until I got one of the patients who rarely stops in. He comes in occasionally. He really needs us more than he'll let on, and now that he's got a new health condition, it's obvious. To add insult to injury, while he's not homeless, he could very well be soon due to an issue at home. Homelessness is scary, but even more so when you are disabled.
When our meeting was finished, I actually think he learned something. I am hoping he'll see the need to get help. Technology is a great tool for this gentleman, but he needs to come see us, too.
As I run around the building, I often encounter folks who are visiting our outpatient clinics or other programs. Many of them never avail themselves of my area's services (it's optional). I say hello and sometimes chat as I go by.
Friday, one of these characters liked what I wore to work (a sweater and dress pants). He rolled up and knocked on my door. I asked how I could help.
He said, "I just wanted to tell you I think you look more beautiful today than ever." Frankly, I was stunned by the compliment. We chatted some more about the services of the SU, but he declined as usual. I told him (as I tell all the patients), "If you change your mind, let me know." and he rolled away smiling.
It made my week.
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are and someone sees your beauty too!
One day recently was a combination of both. I need peace and quiet to get things organized and completed in an efficient manner, so it worked out relatively well.
The first part of my day was great, until I got one of the patients who rarely stops in. He comes in occasionally. He really needs us more than he'll let on, and now that he's got a new health condition, it's obvious. To add insult to injury, while he's not homeless, he could very well be soon due to an issue at home. Homelessness is scary, but even more so when you are disabled.
When our meeting was finished, I actually think he learned something. I am hoping he'll see the need to get help. Technology is a great tool for this gentleman, but he needs to come see us, too.
As I run around the building, I often encounter folks who are visiting our outpatient clinics or other programs. Many of them never avail themselves of my area's services (it's optional). I say hello and sometimes chat as I go by.
Friday, one of these characters liked what I wore to work (a sweater and dress pants). He rolled up and knocked on my door. I asked how I could help.
He said, "I just wanted to tell you I think you look more beautiful today than ever." Frankly, I was stunned by the compliment. We chatted some more about the services of the SU, but he declined as usual. I told him (as I tell all the patients), "If you change your mind, let me know." and he rolled away smiling.
It made my week.
Hope you enjoy your weekend wherever you are and someone sees your beauty too!
Monday, September 12, 2016
Patriot day + 1 reflection
Yes, it's the 12th of September and I feel like 15 years ago and one day, were almost a blink of an eye, and a lifetime all at once.
I remember that day. Much is blurry, but the terror is real--the unknown, the ruthlessness, the destruction are unnerving. I still see that today.
I lived another life, and when I go near where I used to work on September 11, I even see people who used to work in my building. We're not friends, but I still recognize them. They still work at the same place. They've aged just like me.
But occasionally, I come in costume in my scrubs, when the local food trucks pull outside and I'm in the neighborhood. My job now warrants a weekly trip from one campus to another, so it's on the way back and I stop for lunch. The building have new names. The company I worked for has been bought out multiple times.
If I close my eyes, I still remember that life.
The world has changed, and so have I. I don't worry anymore about what could have been there. I realize that life is living and I'm doing it every day.
Fifteen years and a day, I pray still.
More later....
I remember that day. Much is blurry, but the terror is real--the unknown, the ruthlessness, the destruction are unnerving. I still see that today.
I lived another life, and when I go near where I used to work on September 11, I even see people who used to work in my building. We're not friends, but I still recognize them. They still work at the same place. They've aged just like me.
But occasionally, I come in costume in my scrubs, when the local food trucks pull outside and I'm in the neighborhood. My job now warrants a weekly trip from one campus to another, so it's on the way back and I stop for lunch. The building have new names. The company I worked for has been bought out multiple times.
If I close my eyes, I still remember that life.
The world has changed, and so have I. I don't worry anymore about what could have been there. I realize that life is living and I'm doing it every day.
Fifteen years and a day, I pray still.
More later....
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Rooting for the underdog
I was perusing a bunch of online articles after another exciting day stirring the pot (and seeing patients) at the Hotel, when I saw this article that struck me. It's title: Fat Guy Across America.
He started over 500 lbs and is heading out to see America. And there's an interesting back story along the way.
I hate smoking and the horrible things that come with it (not the smoker). I've had to work with people who were far too sick because of those "coffin nails" as one of my relatives calls them.
Here's hoping he stops by the Great American Smokeout and makes it all the way across the country.
If you're going to set goals, sometimes you gotta go big.
Stay tuned...
He started over 500 lbs and is heading out to see America. And there's an interesting back story along the way.
I hate smoking and the horrible things that come with it (not the smoker). I've had to work with people who were far too sick because of those "coffin nails" as one of my relatives calls them.
Here's hoping he stops by the Great American Smokeout and makes it all the way across the country.
If you're going to set goals, sometimes you gotta go big.
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
The answer: send someone a letter
I had a day yesterday that (again) questioned my faith in the leadership of the Hotel at the very tip top. The root cause: BS plain and simple.
How in Hades do we have people (with credit to do so) purchase equipment, tell everyone "go out and get some patients to use it" then suddenly drop it? This happens (of course) once you get the ninnies at your location to buy in. When asked late last week, when I went to order and couldn't find a gadget available, I got an e-mail that said "Well, we don't know if we'll have money next year to continue this" as some very valuable pieces of equipment sit unused on people's desks throughout the system as a totem of "Look what I have..this cool gadget!" As such, these "gadgets" which are really FDA approved health care tools, do nothing for patients.
I know they work. Some of my patients have them. I got them through a loophole, which I willingly followed policy and procedure TO THE LETTER to get. They are making a difference in the lives of these people. I see it on a regular basis. Some of our people were back and forth to the Hotel several times in a year. Guess what? One character hasn't been back in six months (and counting). Another is over four months and we haven't readmitted him/her.
When I asked our technical gurus (who have way more experience with this sort of shenanigans) what I should do, the answer was "write a letter to someone who can do something about it". The consequences of doing that, could very well cost me my job.
But after years of waiting, working, busting butt for things that turn to vapor, I'm just about there.
Will be writing, editing, and thinking very carefully this week about that very thing...
Stay tuned.
How in Hades do we have people (with credit to do so) purchase equipment, tell everyone "go out and get some patients to use it" then suddenly drop it? This happens (of course) once you get the ninnies at your location to buy in. When asked late last week, when I went to order and couldn't find a gadget available, I got an e-mail that said "Well, we don't know if we'll have money next year to continue this" as some very valuable pieces of equipment sit unused on people's desks throughout the system as a totem of "Look what I have..this cool gadget!" As such, these "gadgets" which are really FDA approved health care tools, do nothing for patients.
I know they work. Some of my patients have them. I got them through a loophole, which I willingly followed policy and procedure TO THE LETTER to get. They are making a difference in the lives of these people. I see it on a regular basis. Some of our people were back and forth to the Hotel several times in a year. Guess what? One character hasn't been back in six months (and counting). Another is over four months and we haven't readmitted him/her.
When I asked our technical gurus (who have way more experience with this sort of shenanigans) what I should do, the answer was "write a letter to someone who can do something about it". The consequences of doing that, could very well cost me my job.
But after years of waiting, working, busting butt for things that turn to vapor, I'm just about there.
Will be writing, editing, and thinking very carefully this week about that very thing...
Stay tuned.
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...
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
The bracing chill
Winter's hanging on here in RehabLand. I took a walk tonight in the brisk air after dinner. Glad I had on many layers and a good hat to cover my ears.
Work is still work, but at least, I'm rousing the troops. Things I've been trying to accomplish are finally falling into place. Even without a lot of executive buy-in, we're getting things done. It's going to change the dynamics of what we do in many ways.
I had a interview recently for a new job. It'll mean leaving the Hotel, but staying in the same hospital system. It really stressed me out (because I was a half hour early), but I was happy when I got it done. I know there were a lot of applicants. I just hope I'll be the one who gets it. I've passed up on a job like this twice before.
I'm hoping third time's the charm. Cross your fingers, light your candles, etc.
Stay tuned...
Work is still work, but at least, I'm rousing the troops. Things I've been trying to accomplish are finally falling into place. Even without a lot of executive buy-in, we're getting things done. It's going to change the dynamics of what we do in many ways.
I had a interview recently for a new job. It'll mean leaving the Hotel, but staying in the same hospital system. It really stressed me out (because I was a half hour early), but I was happy when I got it done. I know there were a lot of applicants. I just hope I'll be the one who gets it. I've passed up on a job like this twice before.
I'm hoping third time's the charm. Cross your fingers, light your candles, etc.
Stay tuned...
Friday, January 2, 2015
Bad luck? Perhaps
As we sent one rehab patient to hospice recently, I read this article from the BBC with much chagrin.
Could our patient Mr. Z really have just had bad luck? Could that mutation have been stopped before it metastasized all over and sent him to rehab?
One commenter said, "Mutations get all the bad press."
Fine time they should! Lifestyle changes are important, but as the saying goes, sometimes you do everything right, and something goes wrong. I have a litany of relatives who've been burdened with these cancers by fluke, food and lifestyle. Horrible disfigurement and shortened lives make for a story, but try telling that to kids growing up without parents, families suffering from impenetrable sadness and loss.
Knowing we got him on his way, no matter how long our little bit lasted, with a little more dignity, is a very good thing.
Stay tuned...
Could our patient Mr. Z really have just had bad luck? Could that mutation have been stopped before it metastasized all over and sent him to rehab?
One commenter said, "Mutations get all the bad press."
Fine time they should! Lifestyle changes are important, but as the saying goes, sometimes you do everything right, and something goes wrong. I have a litany of relatives who've been burdened with these cancers by fluke, food and lifestyle. Horrible disfigurement and shortened lives make for a story, but try telling that to kids growing up without parents, families suffering from impenetrable sadness and loss.
Knowing we got him on his way, no matter how long our little bit lasted, with a little more dignity, is a very good thing.
Stay tuned...
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Sometimes, you really can't
Go home again. You can't go home without it changing you.
In this article in the NY Times, they discuss how many Africans who believe in female genital mutilation are sending their daughters out of the country for the process to occur in their former home countries, such as Somalia or Mali (including a few others).
I learn something new every day...
In this article in the NY Times, they discuss how many Africans who believe in female genital mutilation are sending their daughters out of the country for the process to occur in their former home countries, such as Somalia or Mali (including a few others).
I learn something new every day...
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
The end of the line...
Only if you have an old computer. Yes, Microsoft is finally retiring support for Windows xp, unless you work for certain governments who have ponied up for support.
Despite its failings, at least I don't have to worry about this any more. I made all of my xp problems disappear by downloading this version of Linux free. My hardware was just old enough (and underpowered) that it would not support Windows 8.
Be warned: it is a change. I opted for this because I wanted something easy that would support my attached goodies.
Still tinkering...enjoy your day!
Despite its failings, at least I don't have to worry about this any more. I made all of my xp problems disappear by downloading this version of Linux free. My hardware was just old enough (and underpowered) that it would not support Windows 8.
Be warned: it is a change. I opted for this because I wanted something easy that would support my attached goodies.
Still tinkering...enjoy your day!
Friday, December 27, 2013
In the news - TGIF edition
Happy Friday! Since I'm off, I'm still reading everything I can get my hands on (including stuff about drain cleaners).
The power of nursing, cultural influences, and changes ahead in 2014 were in the news this week.
How about an IV, Mrs. Park?
This NY Times article discusses the how IVs are used in the Asian community there and how infection rates related to them are having devastating results.
Changes in 2014
If you're like me and you can't keep up with everything changing due to the new healthcare laws, have a look here for more information.
The power of nursing
Sepsis may become a thing of the past in ICUs if this tool is implemented according to CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). And yes, the power of nursing's "hunches" are coming true, and they have the data (and a system) to back it up. Wish Flo could see it now!
You can see how public service announcements can make a difference in this Stop Sepsis video:
The power of nursing, cultural influences, and changes ahead in 2014 were in the news this week.
How about an IV, Mrs. Park?
This NY Times article discusses the how IVs are used in the Asian community there and how infection rates related to them are having devastating results.
Changes in 2014
If you're like me and you can't keep up with everything changing due to the new healthcare laws, have a look here for more information.
The power of nursing
Sepsis may become a thing of the past in ICUs if this tool is implemented according to CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). And yes, the power of nursing's "hunches" are coming true, and they have the data (and a system) to back it up. Wish Flo could see it now!
You can see how public service announcements can make a difference in this Stop Sepsis video:
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Changes
It is not strange... to mistake change for progress.~ Millard Fillmore
I would embed the famous (or infamous) David Bowie video here, but I'm just not in the mood.
This quote pretty much sums up what Manglement is doing to our unit at the Hotel. Changing things. Breaking promises.
It's very, very upsetting.
I feel like a base jumper whose parachute may or may not deploy upon jumping. Scary.
I would embed the famous (or infamous) David Bowie video here, but I'm just not in the mood.
This quote pretty much sums up what Manglement is doing to our unit at the Hotel. Changing things. Breaking promises.
It's very, very upsetting.
I feel like a base jumper whose parachute may or may not deploy upon jumping. Scary.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Sometimes, we're cutting edge...
And sometimes, we're a little behind.
The cutting edge part: I work in the SU and we have the latest and greatest technology for dealing with rehab patients (and lots of other patients, too.)
The behind part: it's very telling, when your hospital finally gets the hint that this has been a Joint Commission recommendation since 2009.
We've had a few other changes happening, which just adds to the mix.
Why? Because people are starting to complain. And morale is low.
At least, we had some fun today, brightening up the area under construction. It was a blast for the patients, and for me, too.
TGIF all! Enjoy your moments wherever you are. I will!
The cutting edge part: I work in the SU and we have the latest and greatest technology for dealing with rehab patients (and lots of other patients, too.)
The behind part: it's very telling, when your hospital finally gets the hint that this has been a Joint Commission recommendation since 2009.
We've had a few other changes happening, which just adds to the mix.
Why? Because people are starting to complain. And morale is low.
At least, we had some fun today, brightening up the area under construction. It was a blast for the patients, and for me, too.
TGIF all! Enjoy your moments wherever you are. I will!
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
The strife is over
I raise my glass(es) in honor of surviving the last day of our rehab accreditation survey recently.
While I wasn't noted as a great help to our team directly by the inspectors, they could not deny our work in the SU. It was especially gratifying to know that some things we do can change the world.
Even if it's only my little world at the Hotel, we change things one person at a time.
Cheers!
While I wasn't noted as a great help to our team directly by the inspectors, they could not deny our work in the SU. It was especially gratifying to know that some things we do can change the world.
Even if it's only my little world at the Hotel, we change things one person at a time.
Cheers!
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Thanks for penciling that in
Sometimes people make mistakes, and thankfully, there are some astute folks who follow them, recognize the mistake and make the appropriate changes.
I really enjoyed this story in the obituary of Lindy Boggs, former congresswoman, who died recently at 97 years old.
As a woman, I have been fortunate to be a beneficiary of that event.
Godspeed, Ms. Lindy.
I really enjoyed this story in the obituary of Lindy Boggs, former congresswoman, who died recently at 97 years old.
As a woman, I have been fortunate to be a beneficiary of that event.
Godspeed, Ms. Lindy.
Friday, January 18, 2013
I need a good laugh...
Oh, 2013 is really off to the races. Lots of changes everywhere.
I almost feel like a newlywed and a part of me doesn't like this part: the part where my husband has to move from town to town to work.
With an old dog and a kid, I'd rather have him at home more, but it doesn't seem like that's going to happen much anymore. As a contract worker, Dahey's contract was abruptly ended when the firm he was working for lost the contract on his job.
In addition, the funding for said project also was downgraded, which lead to his job disappearing early with no warning.
But Grumpy made my day talking about superpoop, RePOOPulate (I'm not kidding about the name...)
You know how to make an old rehab nurse laugh!
Thanks! I needed it.
I almost feel like a newlywed and a part of me doesn't like this part: the part where my husband has to move from town to town to work.
With an old dog and a kid, I'd rather have him at home more, but it doesn't seem like that's going to happen much anymore. As a contract worker, Dahey's contract was abruptly ended when the firm he was working for lost the contract on his job.
In addition, the funding for said project also was downgraded, which lead to his job disappearing early with no warning.
But Grumpy made my day talking about superpoop, RePOOPulate (I'm not kidding about the name...)
You know how to make an old rehab nurse laugh!
Thanks! I needed it.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Another week in RehabLand...
And what a week it was! Lots of ups and downs, happiness and sadness. I got what I asked Santa for already: equipment and the start for a new clinic. And I got four pounds of espresso! Ho ho ho! I can't wait until clinic starts in the New Year.
At Madison, one of our doctors celebrated ten years at the Hotel. We finally got a new doctor to replace our last one who retired recently. Then our boss announced that he/she is taking a new job in a month, four hours away.
One of our staff complained of chest pains and got a cancer diagnosis instead once he/she was hospitalized.
School is on hold, I'm awaiting sentencing, as one of my old professors used to say. (Actually, he said waiting for the plea bargains....really miss that sense of humor.)
In a way, I feel the same. I'd like to plead for my sanity, but I'm just going to relax and see what happens.
More to come...
At Madison, one of our doctors celebrated ten years at the Hotel. We finally got a new doctor to replace our last one who retired recently. Then our boss announced that he/she is taking a new job in a month, four hours away.
One of our staff complained of chest pains and got a cancer diagnosis instead once he/she was hospitalized.
School is on hold, I'm awaiting sentencing, as one of my old professors used to say. (Actually, he said waiting for the plea bargains....really miss that sense of humor.)
In a way, I feel the same. I'd like to plead for my sanity, but I'm just going to relax and see what happens.
More to come...
Friday, January 27, 2012
The plot thickens
Lots of craziness going on in the Hotel. Hustle, bustle, and renovating in my world. The painting part is going slowly, so I've been relocated to the office I started out in when I transferred. I don't really mind, since I enjoy my office mates.
I may get some new compatriots in the SU, or the ones who are there may stay on permanently. This is a hot topic on the unit, since everyone wants to run away from the boss. They'll do anything to get on day shift so they can take off and run.
Very few people are happy right where they are. They think there are too many changes. It would have come to us no matter what. It's been a year since Boss said he/she was moving on, but he/she didn't leave right away. Many people are still marooned and not coping well. The New Boss had to reiterate that his/her door was open, so ask if you want something, don't gossip. Seems like an easy concept, but it's not really as much fun to not gossip at the Hotel.
We will just have to wait and see, as the plot thickens.
More later...my Malbec is calling me. I've been good!
I may get some new compatriots in the SU, or the ones who are there may stay on permanently. This is a hot topic on the unit, since everyone wants to run away from the boss. They'll do anything to get on day shift so they can take off and run.
Very few people are happy right where they are. They think there are too many changes. It would have come to us no matter what. It's been a year since Boss said he/she was moving on, but he/she didn't leave right away. Many people are still marooned and not coping well. The New Boss had to reiterate that his/her door was open, so ask if you want something, don't gossip. Seems like an easy concept, but it's not really as much fun to not gossip at the Hotel.
We will just have to wait and see, as the plot thickens.
More later...my Malbec is calling me. I've been good!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
I'm open...
Be open to the amazing changes which are occurring in the field that interest you.~
Leigh Steinberg
Dear Boss:
I'm also open to having Manglement make those decisions that I cannot. If you continue to tell me to do stuff without much direction, I will figure a way to do it on my own.
And being your micromanaging self, you may not like the results.
Just sayin'...
RehabRN
Leigh Steinberg
Dear Boss:
I'm also open to having Manglement make those decisions that I cannot. If you continue to tell me to do stuff without much direction, I will figure a way to do it on my own.
And being your micromanaging self, you may not like the results.
Just sayin'...
RehabRN
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