Really, today sort of feels like my last "real" clinical day in OB. Saturday, I have my final check-offs, so I will be doing a postpartum assessment by myself, in front of my instructor, as well as a newborn assessment by myself, in front of my instructor--for a grade. Each one will be worth 10 points. Then, next week, I really won't have much of anything, since it will be the last day. I think my instructor said she would put me back down in labor and delivery, in hopes of getting me in to see a cesarean delivery. Plus, we will also get to go to the lab and play with placentas, which should be interesting.
So today, I had a really awesome nurse to follow around. She made sure I was actively participating and encouraged me to really jump in and learn. It was great--because for the most part, my other nurses have really just been having me watch and not really do anything. This nurse also had me pick a teaching topic to go in and teach the clients, which was kind of uncomfortable, because the father of the baby was really cranky about us having come in early (he was still sleeping, and we apparently woke him up, haha).
Beyond that, I was able to hand in all my remaining paperwork, except for the home visit assignment; my partner is pretty anal about making sure it is absolutely perfect. We met up for a few hours after clinical today, and we had met up earlier this week, after Foley check-offs for a few hours. Altogether, we have spent 6 hours together working on finishing this assignment, and I've put another hour into it from home. And she is still not convinced that it is good enough. I find it difficult to work with partners like this, who believe in doing every part of the work together, rather than splitting it up. I trust my partner to do good work, and I wish she would trust me to do the same; this way, we wouldn't have to be wasting time and can work more efficiently--coffeeshops are just not that great for my productivity.
Oh well. I plan to spend tomorrow practicing for my final postpartum and newborn check-offs! I'm really nervous, because my instructor is pretty strict about these assessments.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Jan. 24, 2012
Today began with presenting our case studies that we worked on yesterday, over the birth process. Then we actually got some real lecture about some complications that can happen during birth. And... that was pretty much it for the day. Lecture, some case studies, and we finished up early. So, the check-offs got started early, too.
When I got down there, I got a really great instructor for my checkoff, and I had to do my Foley on a female. I was sort of hoping I would get a male mannequin, just because the procedure is a little less complicated on a male, but it wasn't too bad. In fact, I only missed 0.25 out of 10, so I really can't complain. The only thing I didn't do was say that I visualized the site of entry. I am really, really glad that is done!!
Tomorrow I have off, now, so I will be spending the time working on some clinical paperwork as well as the cesarean delivery presentation I have with my partner! My sweetheart is coming to visit me next week, and I want to make sure all my paperwork and stuff is done before, so I can just spend the weekend with him without anything hanging over my head.
Jan. 23, 2012
Another exam today, and once again, we were mislead. We all received an e-mail the DAY BEFORE the exam telling us to study from the reading guides, as these were what the test questions were drawn from. So, I completely ignored the extensive review guide. And wouldn't you know it--about half of the material wasn't on the reading guide and there were a lot of very in-depth, detailed questions. I find it hard to study for these exams, because even though I do the reading and then review the reading guide, it still seems as though the questions are just drawn from somewhere completely different. In any case, we then had a very short lecture on the birthing process, followed by more case studies.
Today was also the first day in Nursing Research. We already had to do a discussion posting online, which I went ahead and did a week or so ago. Then, as seems to be the norm, we had a quiz today. Then, we had group work over the information from the quiz, which was basically looking up some information on a website and compiling it to hand in.
After class, I had to get into open lab, which started late because the person who was supposed to be supervising didn't show up. Foley Catheter practice. It's really not that difficult, procedurally. What's difficult is not breaking sterile field--because you can do it so easily without even noticing! After practicing, I feel more prepared for check-offs tomorrow. What a long day!!
Here's what I woke up to yesterday, by the way:
Oh, and I forgot to add something from a few weeks ago! There was a frog down in my sump area. Unfortunately, he died overnight from when I noticed him; otherwise, I probably would have fished him out and got a terrarium or something for him (or her, I suppose). So, here is yet another creature I can add to my repertoire of strange pseudo-pets.
Today was also the first day in Nursing Research. We already had to do a discussion posting online, which I went ahead and did a week or so ago. Then, as seems to be the norm, we had a quiz today. Then, we had group work over the information from the quiz, which was basically looking up some information on a website and compiling it to hand in.
After class, I had to get into open lab, which started late because the person who was supposed to be supervising didn't show up. Foley Catheter practice. It's really not that difficult, procedurally. What's difficult is not breaking sterile field--because you can do it so easily without even noticing! After practicing, I feel more prepared for check-offs tomorrow. What a long day!!
Here's what I woke up to yesterday, by the way:
 |
| I was planning on cracking the window... but I changed my mind.... |
Oh, and I forgot to add something from a few weeks ago! There was a frog down in my sump area. Unfortunately, he died overnight from when I noticed him; otherwise, I probably would have fished him out and got a terrarium or something for him (or her, I suppose). So, here is yet another creature I can add to my repertoire of strange pseudo-pets.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Jan. 21, 2012
I finally got my chance to be in labor and delivery today! And it was the most amazing, beautiful, unreal experience!! I cried--and that is something I didn't see coming!
The father was so supportive of his girlfriend, cheering her on, holding her hand, and getting her water as she needed it. And, I was able to take some pictures and video for them, so that was great.
I felt kind of useless, but I know that just being there for them, silencing alarms, and helping hold the mother's leg when the nurse was busy was definitely a big help. And the nurse was AWESOME!! You'd have to be a really special person to work in labor and delivery and love it every day! There are good days and there would definitely be bad days. But she said this was a really good delivery to see--it could have gone so much worse, but considering all the risk factors, it actually went really well.
That experience took up most of the day, and I had very little time to gather my information for the labor and delivery assignment, so I stayed a little late today. That's fine--because tomorrow will be the first day in what feels like forever that I won't have to be up at 0500!!
I talked to my instructor, and she said I had too many nursing diagnoses, and that some of them I didn't have enough evidence or support for. So that simplifies my assignment quite a bit. I will be completing that and studying for the upcoming week! We have a new class that starts on Monday--Research! It's mostly a hybrid class, where we do a lot of work outside of class on the computer, and meet only a few times. This will be nice, since it's that same professor I am really struggling to like.
The father was so supportive of his girlfriend, cheering her on, holding her hand, and getting her water as she needed it. And, I was able to take some pictures and video for them, so that was great.
I felt kind of useless, but I know that just being there for them, silencing alarms, and helping hold the mother's leg when the nurse was busy was definitely a big help. And the nurse was AWESOME!! You'd have to be a really special person to work in labor and delivery and love it every day! There are good days and there would definitely be bad days. But she said this was a really good delivery to see--it could have gone so much worse, but considering all the risk factors, it actually went really well.
That experience took up most of the day, and I had very little time to gather my information for the labor and delivery assignment, so I stayed a little late today. That's fine--because tomorrow will be the first day in what feels like forever that I won't have to be up at 0500!!
I talked to my instructor, and she said I had too many nursing diagnoses, and that some of them I didn't have enough evidence or support for. So that simplifies my assignment quite a bit. I will be completing that and studying for the upcoming week! We have a new class that starts on Monday--Research! It's mostly a hybrid class, where we do a lot of work outside of class on the computer, and meet only a few times. This will be nice, since it's that same professor I am really struggling to like.
Jan. 20, 2012
As expected, there was probably 5 or 6 inches of snow overnight, so driving this morning was definitely interesting. I'm really glad my car has front-wheel drive and snow tires. Neither one is a saving grace, but they definitely help! I did, however, get stuck a little bit when pulling into the coffee shop we met up at. Not for very long, but it was still a little bit nerve wracking and annoying. My partner, however, was late--she got REALLY stuck on a side street. So, when it came time to drive over to the home visit, she rode with me.
The visit went really well. They seemed really settled into their roles as parents and seem really comfortable with their new baby! They had very few questions and were grateful for the information we brought them, as there were some things they hadn't heard of or thought of. When we discussed toy safety, they even had us look over their toys for them so they could make sure they had safe toys for their son. We were there for about an hour, gathering the information we needed for our assignment and providing education, and then we were able to leave.
Then, I immediately set to work on my postpartum assignment and concept map. I had some questions about it, because I wasn't really sure how extensive it needed to be or how many nursing diagnoses I needed to come up with. And, looking at the rubric and assignment guidelines was not particularly helpful, because it wasn't really specific. Being that this assignment is only worth 15 points, too, makes me think I don't have to come up with so many diagnoses. Even with the five I came up (two of which were kind of stretching it), it felt like the most pathetic concept map I had ever come up with. So, I intend to ask my instructor about it tomorrow.
The visit went really well. They seemed really settled into their roles as parents and seem really comfortable with their new baby! They had very few questions and were grateful for the information we brought them, as there were some things they hadn't heard of or thought of. When we discussed toy safety, they even had us look over their toys for them so they could make sure they had safe toys for their son. We were there for about an hour, gathering the information we needed for our assignment and providing education, and then we were able to leave.
Then, I immediately set to work on my postpartum assignment and concept map. I had some questions about it, because I wasn't really sure how extensive it needed to be or how many nursing diagnoses I needed to come up with. And, looking at the rubric and assignment guidelines was not particularly helpful, because it wasn't really specific. Being that this assignment is only worth 15 points, too, makes me think I don't have to come up with so many diagnoses. Even with the five I came up (two of which were kind of stretching it), it felt like the most pathetic concept map I had ever come up with. So, I intend to ask my instructor about it tomorrow.
Jan. 19, 2012
Clinical day number three! And, since I didn't get a second clinical day with a partner because of last week, I got to be with my partner again today. It was nice, although I felt the nurse spent a lot more time talking to her friends than actually spending time with patients. What was great, though, was that we got to follow her around to most of her rooms. I selected a patient to do my postpartum assignment and concept map on, so I look forward to getting that one done and off my plate. Then, all I would have left would be my labor and delivery. Unfortunately, there was not a delivery for me to see today--although the other two who needed to see one got to go. So, I am on the priority list for seeing one next time.
Overall, it was a pretty good day. We got to help with discharge education, as well as admitting a new patient to the floor.
When I got back to my apartment, I had to do some prep work for our home visit assignment tomorrow morning!! They want us to come over at 9, and my partner and I are planning on getting together at 8 to review what we have. And, looking at what the weather is planning on being like overnight, I know I have to get up extra early to get ready and leave with plenty of time to accomodate for the snowy conditions!
Overall, it was a pretty good day. We got to help with discharge education, as well as admitting a new patient to the floor.
When I got back to my apartment, I had to do some prep work for our home visit assignment tomorrow morning!! They want us to come over at 9, and my partner and I are planning on getting together at 8 to review what we have. And, looking at what the weather is planning on being like overnight, I know I have to get up extra early to get ready and leave with plenty of time to accomodate for the snowy conditions!
Jan. 18, 2012
Since we had a holiday on Monday, we had to have class today (Wednesday) my normal day off. Which means that the other clinical groups only have one clinical day this week, while we still have two. Worry you not, though--it will be balanced out in two weeks!
Today we had a quiz. And wouldn't you know it--the professor had quesitons on it that were not from the chapters we had to read. It was only after we protested this that she said she would consider altering our grades because it was unfair to have had questions that we weren't told to study for. The e-mail she sent out later, added insult to injury, as she said she was being generous to do so. This coming from the professor who claimed she hadn't looked at or revised the quiz questions on the medication quiz in five years. This threw some of us off--because one of the questions in particular had a correct answer that was no longer in practice!
In any case, we had simulation today. And let me tell you, I felt completely shattered afterwards. Confidence? Broken. I don't believe I was ever cocky or overly confident--but I felt I was at least competent in being a nurse, and I didn't feel that way after this simulation at all. But, the professors said we all did a good job.
The scenario was a woman coming in to the hospital because she hadn't felt her baby kicking as much. SHe was found to have hypertension, so she had to be admitted. She had to have a Foley placed, as well as an IV. Then, the lab work returned that she had HELLP syndrome (hemolysis [breaking down of blood cells], elevated liver enzymes [from the blood being broken down], and low platelets [not able to clot as well]). When it got to my group of five, she had a hemorrhage, and I was the medication nurse. Everyone said I did so well with the calculations and medication administration, but I was shaking and honestly felt like I wasn't doing good at all.
Oh well--it's time to shake it off and get ready for clinicals tomorrow!
Today we had a quiz. And wouldn't you know it--the professor had quesitons on it that were not from the chapters we had to read. It was only after we protested this that she said she would consider altering our grades because it was unfair to have had questions that we weren't told to study for. The e-mail she sent out later, added insult to injury, as she said she was being generous to do so. This coming from the professor who claimed she hadn't looked at or revised the quiz questions on the medication quiz in five years. This threw some of us off--because one of the questions in particular had a correct answer that was no longer in practice!
In any case, we had simulation today. And let me tell you, I felt completely shattered afterwards. Confidence? Broken. I don't believe I was ever cocky or overly confident--but I felt I was at least competent in being a nurse, and I didn't feel that way after this simulation at all. But, the professors said we all did a good job.
The scenario was a woman coming in to the hospital because she hadn't felt her baby kicking as much. SHe was found to have hypertension, so she had to be admitted. She had to have a Foley placed, as well as an IV. Then, the lab work returned that she had HELLP syndrome (hemolysis [breaking down of blood cells], elevated liver enzymes [from the blood being broken down], and low platelets [not able to clot as well]). When it got to my group of five, she had a hemorrhage, and I was the medication nurse. Everyone said I did so well with the calculations and medication administration, but I was shaking and honestly felt like I wasn't doing good at all.
Oh well--it's time to shake it off and get ready for clinicals tomorrow!
Jan. 17, 2012
Happy Anniversary to my parents!! 31 years, I do believe!!
Now, you may be asking why I'm writing on Tuesday. We didn't have class yesterday!! So I had some extra time to work on my newborn paperwork, prepare for simulation this week, study for the examination and medication quiz today. I feel the examination went well, and as I was leaving the medication quiz, the instructor gave me a thumbs up, so I know I passed it this time. We had a little bit of a short day today, though, since there are some check-offs this afternoon. This is fine by me, because I was pretty brain-dead after the exam and quiz today. And, I can spend a little more time working on the simulation prep work, making sure I know what I am going to have to do for tomorrow.
Now, you may be asking why I'm writing on Tuesday. We didn't have class yesterday!! So I had some extra time to work on my newborn paperwork, prepare for simulation this week, study for the examination and medication quiz today. I feel the examination went well, and as I was leaving the medication quiz, the instructor gave me a thumbs up, so I know I passed it this time. We had a little bit of a short day today, though, since there are some check-offs this afternoon. This is fine by me, because I was pretty brain-dead after the exam and quiz today. And, I can spend a little more time working on the simulation prep work, making sure I know what I am going to have to do for tomorrow.
Jan. 14, 2012
A few more people had the opportunity to go to labor and delivery--which left me partner-less! So where did the instructor put me? In the nursery!
And yes, I was terrified. But, I got to do a lot of firsts today! I changed my first diaper--and yes, I mean ever! I got to watch a circumcision, which, as barbaric as it looks, was not too terrible. The physician talked me through the whole procedure and had a lot of insights and knowledge to share. As much as the nurses thought I would pass out--I didn't! I have a much better stomach than most, I think--at least better than the medical staff I work with gives me credit for!
I also got to give a shot--the Hepatitis B vaccine--and help with assessments and hearing tests. It was, between all of these things, a fairly slow day in the nursery, since most infants are with their moms for most of the day!
In post conference this afternoon, we learned about fetal heart monitoring and did some practice with analyzing them. By the end of the day, there were only three of us who hadn't gone to labor and delivery. So, assuming there are enough women having children next Thursday, all three of us will go--but I am last on the list, so I may not go until Saturday.
Time to set to work on the newborn assignment paperwork!
And yes, I was terrified. But, I got to do a lot of firsts today! I changed my first diaper--and yes, I mean ever! I got to watch a circumcision, which, as barbaric as it looks, was not too terrible. The physician talked me through the whole procedure and had a lot of insights and knowledge to share. As much as the nurses thought I would pass out--I didn't! I have a much better stomach than most, I think--at least better than the medical staff I work with gives me credit for!
I also got to give a shot--the Hepatitis B vaccine--and help with assessments and hearing tests. It was, between all of these things, a fairly slow day in the nursery, since most infants are with their moms for most of the day!
In post conference this afternoon, we learned about fetal heart monitoring and did some practice with analyzing them. By the end of the day, there were only three of us who hadn't gone to labor and delivery. So, assuming there are enough women having children next Thursday, all three of us will go--but I am last on the list, so I may not go until Saturday.
Time to set to work on the newborn assignment paperwork!
Jan. 12, 2012
Today is my first official clinical day! I was up at 0500 to make sure I could get there at 0630! And what, you may ask, was the weather like? It was a baseline 3 degrees out, snowing with 17 mph winds for a windchill temperature of -17. I FINALLY got to wear my new down jacket that my mom gave me for Christmas!! It was a great day in clinicals, too! I had a great family to care for. The instructor paired us up with primipars (first-time moms) so we could have a good family to offer a home-visit to. It was very tough to get a chance to ask if they would be willing to allow us to come over, though, since there were so many people visiting! Which is fantastic for them--having a great support system is so important.
But, we got them to agree to allow us to come over and teach them some things, and basically just make sure they are doing well. And by we, I mean myself and my partner, since we are paired up for the first two clinical days and for the home visit.
And, wouldn't you know it--half of our group already got to go to labor and delivery to watch a delivery!! How amazing is that!! The instructor said that's almost unheard of!!
Since I was feeling somewhat ambitious, I headed to open lab after clinicals. I was able to sign up for my check-off on January 24, as well as the other check-off we have in February. I tried to practice a Foley Catheter insertion, and I think I did alright, I was just too tired to actually feel like I was getting anything out of it. I don't think the procedure itself is particularly difficult--it's just going to be the whole sterile field deal (whihc apparently is very easy to break) that will be difficult.
Now, off to studying and sleeping!
But, we got them to agree to allow us to come over and teach them some things, and basically just make sure they are doing well. And by we, I mean myself and my partner, since we are paired up for the first two clinical days and for the home visit.
And, wouldn't you know it--half of our group already got to go to labor and delivery to watch a delivery!! How amazing is that!! The instructor said that's almost unheard of!!
Since I was feeling somewhat ambitious, I headed to open lab after clinicals. I was able to sign up for my check-off on January 24, as well as the other check-off we have in February. I tried to practice a Foley Catheter insertion, and I think I did alright, I was just too tired to actually feel like I was getting anything out of it. I don't think the procedure itself is particularly difficult--it's just going to be the whole sterile field deal (whihc apparently is very easy to break) that will be difficult.
Now, off to studying and sleeping!
Jan. 10, 2012
So, of the 20 questions on that medication quiz, I missed 5. This means I have to retake it. Me and 14 other people. The things that killed me was the routes of medications. The rubella vaccine is given subcutaneously--NOT intramuscular. Methergine is given intramuscular--NOT intravenously. Oh, and the best thing to give with iron is orange juice--not a meal.
And, I'm not sure I could honestly tell you what we lectured on--because I couldn't really focus on anything else after doing miserably on that exam. Thankfully, though, we got out at 1200. Groups 1, 2, and 3, though, had to stick around and do the first simulation experience from this term.
So, I will be working on relaxing and studying more for the re-take of the medication quiz I will have to do next week. No clinicals tomorrow!
And, I'm not sure I could honestly tell you what we lectured on--because I couldn't really focus on anything else after doing miserably on that exam. Thankfully, though, we got out at 1200. Groups 1, 2, and 3, though, had to stick around and do the first simulation experience from this term.
So, I will be working on relaxing and studying more for the re-take of the medication quiz I will have to do next week. No clinicals tomorrow!
Jan. 9, 2012
Happy Birthday to MEEE!!!!!!!!!!! I'm 25 years old now! That is a quarter of a century, and as my fiance likes to remind me--I am very old now!
I did a lot of baking yesterday, as it seems to be the tradition for the birthday person to bring the class treats. And these cookies went over amazingly well--they were mostly gone by the end of the day!
They had a dual purpose, too--not only in celebration, but to lift our spirits after the first examination.
I think I did pretty well, but good grief--the study guide AND the reading guides were not helpful at all! Luckily, we had the other professor teaching us today, so it was a much better day in lecture than it otherwise would have been.
Class until 3:30, although we got out earlier, which was nice! And, one of the girls in class asked if I wanted to go out to lunch or something in celebration. I hadn't even thought of doing something like that, so it was nice that someone was so kind! So, I had Olive Garden for lunch--YUMMMM!!!!!!!!!!
Afterwards, though, I had to go study for the medication quiz in the morning. The best part about this? I have to get an 80% on it to not have to retake it. And, should I have to retake it and not do well, my parents will get sent a midterm deficiency notice. Yeah. Interestingly, we never had a medication quiz in the previous two terms that had such weight. So it makes me wonder why these medications are so much more important than, say, cardiac medications that most of us will be administering more often. Oh, and did I say the study guide for this quiz is 30+ pages? Bring it on!
I did a lot of baking yesterday, as it seems to be the tradition for the birthday person to bring the class treats. And these cookies went over amazingly well--they were mostly gone by the end of the day!
They had a dual purpose, too--not only in celebration, but to lift our spirits after the first examination.
I think I did pretty well, but good grief--the study guide AND the reading guides were not helpful at all! Luckily, we had the other professor teaching us today, so it was a much better day in lecture than it otherwise would have been.
Class until 3:30, although we got out earlier, which was nice! And, one of the girls in class asked if I wanted to go out to lunch or something in celebration. I hadn't even thought of doing something like that, so it was nice that someone was so kind! So, I had Olive Garden for lunch--YUMMMM!!!!!!!!!!
Afterwards, though, I had to go study for the medication quiz in the morning. The best part about this? I have to get an 80% on it to not have to retake it. And, should I have to retake it and not do well, my parents will get sent a midterm deficiency notice. Yeah. Interestingly, we never had a medication quiz in the previous two terms that had such weight. So it makes me wonder why these medications are so much more important than, say, cardiac medications that most of us will be administering more often. Oh, and did I say the study guide for this quiz is 30+ pages? Bring it on!
Jan. 7, 2012
We had to meet at the hospital at 0730, at which point we took a tour of the hospital. Our instructor showed us the best door to come in at, the best place to park, as well as the locker rooms we were to use. Then, she took us up to the triage area, where women are monitored to see if they are in labor. If they are, they are transferred to an actual labor room on that same floor. And, if they are discovered to need a C-section, they are taken straight to the operating room on that same floor--right down the hall, actually.
We got to see one of the labor rooms. What an amazing thing! It looks very comfortable, but if you move some of the paintings and open some of the cupboards, they reveal the suctioning and oxygen equipment, as well as some other medical equipment to use when the baby comes!
After a few hours in the labor area, mothers are then moved up to their family suite in the postpartum unit on a different floor. We got to tour this area next, as this is where we would be spending most of our clinical time. This floor is incredibly secure, with only one door in or out for family and guests. All other doors require a staff badge to open. The nursery is the central hub. Infants have a two hospital bands, and one third band that has a security tag, which I would equate to those tags on the expensive clothing at department stores. Except it doesn't explode ink on the baby when it gets near the door; it sets off the alarm system on the floor, and the entire floor shuts down. So, basically, it's an infant security system. Also, the mother of the infant will have a matching tag sort of thing that, when mother and baby unite, it sings a little lullaby--another way to ensure the right mom is with the right baby.
Then, we had to do a scavenger hunt on the floor, and then do our check-offs. I did pretty well, considering I was really nervous about doing it--seeing as how we just learned the information this week! But, I am authorized to begin my clinicals on the floor next week!
We got to see one of the labor rooms. What an amazing thing! It looks very comfortable, but if you move some of the paintings and open some of the cupboards, they reveal the suctioning and oxygen equipment, as well as some other medical equipment to use when the baby comes!
After a few hours in the labor area, mothers are then moved up to their family suite in the postpartum unit on a different floor. We got to tour this area next, as this is where we would be spending most of our clinical time. This floor is incredibly secure, with only one door in or out for family and guests. All other doors require a staff badge to open. The nursery is the central hub. Infants have a two hospital bands, and one third band that has a security tag, which I would equate to those tags on the expensive clothing at department stores. Except it doesn't explode ink on the baby when it gets near the door; it sets off the alarm system on the floor, and the entire floor shuts down. So, basically, it's an infant security system. Also, the mother of the infant will have a matching tag sort of thing that, when mother and baby unite, it sings a little lullaby--another way to ensure the right mom is with the right baby.
Then, we had to do a scavenger hunt on the floor, and then do our check-offs. I did pretty well, considering I was really nervous about doing it--seeing as how we just learned the information this week! But, I am authorized to begin my clinicals on the floor next week!
Jan. 5, 2012
Last day of classes this week!! Huzzah!! I don't think I mentioned it, but classes have started at 0800 and haven't gotten out until 1700. THAT is a long day.
We finished up our team-based learning, then had some lab quizzes on IV meds and Foley Catheters. Then, I opted not to go to open lab, since it had already been a long enough day.
I did well on both quizzes, which is awesome!
Oh, and the weather is CRAZY!! It's 60 degrees here!! Which is odd, since it's winter. And it really should be much colder than that. Even crazier? The Weather Channel is calling this "Severe Weather". I'm sorry, but 60 degrees is not severe--although a record high temperature in the Summer would be severe weather!
But the best news of the day? I get to sleep in tomorrow!! All four other clinical groups have their orientations tomorrow, but I have mine on Saturday.
We finished up our team-based learning, then had some lab quizzes on IV meds and Foley Catheters. Then, I opted not to go to open lab, since it had already been a long enough day.
I did well on both quizzes, which is awesome!
Oh, and the weather is CRAZY!! It's 60 degrees here!! Which is odd, since it's winter. And it really should be much colder than that. Even crazier? The Weather Channel is calling this "Severe Weather". I'm sorry, but 60 degrees is not severe--although a record high temperature in the Summer would be severe weather!
But the best news of the day? I get to sleep in tomorrow!! All four other clinical groups have their orientations tomorrow, but I have mine on Saturday.
Jan. 4, 2012
Lecture again at 0800, during which time we had lecture. Well, at least that's what I'd like to say. Instead, we have "team-based learning". And, we don't even get to choose our teams! I can appreciate the wisdom in randomly selecting our teams--we are going to have to learn how to work with all sorts of people, even people we may not get along with or associate with. However, I feel I would learn better if I was in a group of people I am friends with or associate more frequently with--or just am more comfortable around. Not to mention that we are basically being asked to learn the material ourselves and then present case studies. So, read your textbook and then teach the class.
I can see this being useful in some settings. But when we are learning how to care for human beings, I don't think having inexperienced nursing STUDENTS read dry textbooks and then present the information is the best way to go about it. The professors are supposed to be TEACHING us, using their experiences and the textbook as a guide that has the most up-to-date evidence-based practices.
Not to mention that if you get a bunch of students in groups, how many of them are actually going to do the group work? Only one or two, and the others will just chit-chat.
I am frustrated by this method of "learning"--if you can even say that we are learning anything. I know I am learning a few things, but I don't feel I am getting as much out of it as I could be getting if it were a more traditional, lecture-style class.
In any case, I will hope that the other professor who teaches this class will have a lot less team-based activities, and a lot more lecturing.
And now that I am done ranting about this ridiculous experiment in learning, I will go on to say that we had lab this afternoon. We got to meet our clinical instructors, and then we had the opportunity to watch the instructors demonstrate the postpartum and newborn assessments. The catch? We have to check off on these during our hospital orientations this week. If we don't pass, we don't get to participate in clinicals--they have to make sure we are competent enough to handle doing these assessments on real patients.
Upon getting home--I feel like sleeping, but I have many more videos to watch and readings to get done before class. At 0800 in the morning. Again.
I can see this being useful in some settings. But when we are learning how to care for human beings, I don't think having inexperienced nursing STUDENTS read dry textbooks and then present the information is the best way to go about it. The professors are supposed to be TEACHING us, using their experiences and the textbook as a guide that has the most up-to-date evidence-based practices.
Not to mention that if you get a bunch of students in groups, how many of them are actually going to do the group work? Only one or two, and the others will just chit-chat.
I am frustrated by this method of "learning"--if you can even say that we are learning anything. I know I am learning a few things, but I don't feel I am getting as much out of it as I could be getting if it were a more traditional, lecture-style class.
In any case, I will hope that the other professor who teaches this class will have a lot less team-based activities, and a lot more lecturing.
And now that I am done ranting about this ridiculous experiment in learning, I will go on to say that we had lab this afternoon. We got to meet our clinical instructors, and then we had the opportunity to watch the instructors demonstrate the postpartum and newborn assessments. The catch? We have to check off on these during our hospital orientations this week. If we don't pass, we don't get to participate in clinicals--they have to make sure we are competent enough to handle doing these assessments on real patients.
Upon getting home--I feel like sleeping, but I have many more videos to watch and readings to get done before class. At 0800 in the morning. Again.
Jan. 3, 2012
0800 is way to early to have a class. Especially after two weeks off. We had orientation this morning for a few hours, followed by lecture. And, after a very confusing break, trying to figure out which clinical group I am actually in, it turns out that I am not in the clinical group in which I thought I was. So, instead of having Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays off, I get Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays off. At least for the Maternity/Newborn set of clinicals. It will change when we get to Med/Surg and Pediatrics.
We were supposed to have taken a quiz right after orientation, but our professor decided to give us time to let the information slip from our minds, having to sit through some class-time before the quiz.
Oh, and I should mention that the professor for moms and babes is one who I am not thrilled about learning from for reasons that I will come to explain. I am trying to give her the benefit of the doubt and make an effort to pay attention--she just makes it very difficult.
UPDATE: I meant to take a power nap after school today, because it was such a long day. And I didn't wake up until about 0130 on January 4. So, I spent some time watching videos and writing the summary I had to write, and then went back to sleep for a few more hours.
We were supposed to have taken a quiz right after orientation, but our professor decided to give us time to let the information slip from our minds, having to sit through some class-time before the quiz.
Oh, and I should mention that the professor for moms and babes is one who I am not thrilled about learning from for reasons that I will come to explain. I am trying to give her the benefit of the doubt and make an effort to pay attention--she just makes it very difficult.
UPDATE: I meant to take a power nap after school today, because it was such a long day. And I didn't wake up until about 0130 on January 4. So, I spent some time watching videos and writing the summary I had to write, and then went back to sleep for a few more hours.
Jan. 1, 2012
So first, let me say Happy New Year!! It's 2012!! And we will, at the end of this year, be finding out if the Mayans were on to something!
And next, let me say, I am so sorry for being so ridiculously behind on my blog. It has been a crazy busy semester so far, and I've finally a moment where I have the time and the courage to tackle the arduous task of catching up! So, here we go:
It was a nice relaxing evening on New Years Eve. We had planned on going to the First Night festivities, but we decided instead to spend our last evening together for this visit at home. Then, I packed up everything in the morning, spent some time with my sweetheart, and then went to the airport for my flight back.
I freely admit that I was sobbing. I knew it was going to be difficult, but knowing it doesn't really make it any easier to cope with that feeling of separation.
The flights back were good, though. Nothing terribly interesting to report in terms of that. Although I will say that the weather, upon my return, was FREEZING!! I checked the weather after getting back to my apartment, and it was amazingly cold, with the wind chill reaching into sub-zero temperatures. I was amazed that my car even started after two weeks!
School starts back on Tuesday. I suppose I had better begin studying!!
And next, let me say, I am so sorry for being so ridiculously behind on my blog. It has been a crazy busy semester so far, and I've finally a moment where I have the time and the courage to tackle the arduous task of catching up! So, here we go:
It was a nice relaxing evening on New Years Eve. We had planned on going to the First Night festivities, but we decided instead to spend our last evening together for this visit at home. Then, I packed up everything in the morning, spent some time with my sweetheart, and then went to the airport for my flight back.
I freely admit that I was sobbing. I knew it was going to be difficult, but knowing it doesn't really make it any easier to cope with that feeling of separation.
The flights back were good, though. Nothing terribly interesting to report in terms of that. Although I will say that the weather, upon my return, was FREEZING!! I checked the weather after getting back to my apartment, and it was amazingly cold, with the wind chill reaching into sub-zero temperatures. I was amazed that my car even started after two weeks!
School starts back on Tuesday. I suppose I had better begin studying!!
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Dec. 25, 2011
Okay, so about that next year thing? JUST KIDDING!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
And for us? CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I got a fiance for Christmas!!
It was the most perfect morning! We opened all of our presents, and he said, "Hey, you missed a present in the tree". So I went searching for this present I had apparently missed, grabbed it up from the tree, and sat back on the couch with my sweetie. I took off the THREE layers of wrapping paper and got to a box. My heart was racing, but I was so sure he wasn't going to propose until after I was done with school....
So I opened this small box.... and saw this:
But worry not!! The disappointment and confusion didn't have long to set in, because he pulled out another box, opened it in front of me, and said, "I was hoping that you would want to be my wife".
I cried immediately!! SOOO HAPPY AND SURPRISED!!!!!! After only a few seconds, the only thing I could say was, "Of course!!". And I took off my promise ring, and he slipped on the most BEAUTIFUL engagement ring EVER!!
I am very happy!!! I have such an amazing man in my life--I feel so honored and lucky!
And apparently, everyone and their dog knew for FOUR MONTHS!!! Except, of course, for me!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
And for us? CONGRATULATIONS!!!
I got a fiance for Christmas!!
It was the most perfect morning! We opened all of our presents, and he said, "Hey, you missed a present in the tree". So I went searching for this present I had apparently missed, grabbed it up from the tree, and sat back on the couch with my sweetie. I took off the THREE layers of wrapping paper and got to a box. My heart was racing, but I was so sure he wasn't going to propose until after I was done with school....
So I opened this small box.... and saw this:
But worry not!! The disappointment and confusion didn't have long to set in, because he pulled out another box, opened it in front of me, and said, "I was hoping that you would want to be my wife".
I cried immediately!! SOOO HAPPY AND SURPRISED!!!!!! After only a few seconds, the only thing I could say was, "Of course!!". And I took off my promise ring, and he slipped on the most BEAUTIFUL engagement ring EVER!!
And apparently, everyone and their dog knew for FOUR MONTHS!!! Except, of course, for me!
Dec. 18, 2011
Last night was AWFUL!!
I took a couple of benadryl to help me sleep (I was too excited to sleep!!) at around 9:00pm or so, and I was woken up by the herd of elephants upstairs stomping around at 10:30. And I could not go back to sleep. I tried, I really did. I played soft music, I played some ambient sounds. I played some games on my iPod to try to tire me out. Nope. WIDE AWAKE.
I finally gave up around 3:30am and decided to get up and get ready. Good thing I did, too. My one checked bag was pretty heavy, so I took stuff out and put it into a second. When I got to the airport, it was a really good thing I did that, because my big checked bag was just shy of 50 point at which they charge you more money for having an extra-heavy bag.
Besides that, the flights were fine, although the three-hour layover in Denver was unpleasant.
I got to the airport a little earlier than anticipated, and my boyfriend wasn't there just yet. He got stuck in traffic. So, I grabbed up my bags from baggage claim, and stepped outside--and there he was!! I cannot express how GOOD it was to see him!!
Then, we went out to lunch and went HOME! He decorated the place so well! All our little figures (our Chinese dragon, our Indian statue, etc.) had Santa hats, and the tree looked AMAZING!!!
I am so lucky!! It's gonna be an awesome break! So long until next year!!
I took a couple of benadryl to help me sleep (I was too excited to sleep!!) at around 9:00pm or so, and I was woken up by the herd of elephants upstairs stomping around at 10:30. And I could not go back to sleep. I tried, I really did. I played soft music, I played some ambient sounds. I played some games on my iPod to try to tire me out. Nope. WIDE AWAKE.
I finally gave up around 3:30am and decided to get up and get ready. Good thing I did, too. My one checked bag was pretty heavy, so I took stuff out and put it into a second. When I got to the airport, it was a really good thing I did that, because my big checked bag was just shy of 50 point at which they charge you more money for having an extra-heavy bag.
Besides that, the flights were fine, although the three-hour layover in Denver was unpleasant.
I got to the airport a little earlier than anticipated, and my boyfriend wasn't there just yet. He got stuck in traffic. So, I grabbed up my bags from baggage claim, and stepped outside--and there he was!! I cannot express how GOOD it was to see him!!
Then, we went out to lunch and went HOME! He decorated the place so well! All our little figures (our Chinese dragon, our Indian statue, etc.) had Santa hats, and the tree looked AMAZING!!!
I am so lucky!! It's gonna be an awesome break! So long until next year!!
 |
| This is our GORGEOUS tree!! |
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| This is one of our special ornaments for the year; we are adding two special ornaments each year, in hopes that one day we will have Christmas trees with just unique ornaments! |
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| Here are our other special ornaments; we actually got three this year. |
 |
| Here's the North Pole Village we are collecting. We actually have many more than these three, but these are the three oldest in the collection! |
 |
| Our pair of teddy bears in their Santa & Mrs. Claus outfits! |
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| Nightmare Before Christmas scene!! I love this!! |
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| Here's our Indian statue with a Santa Hat! |
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| Like I said--everything had a hat.... |
Dec. 15-17, 2011
December 15th:
My apartment is already nearly cleaned, with just the bathroom left to clean. Yeah, I know I should be focusing on studying, but in all honesty, the class with the remaining final is so common-sense that it would be a waste of my time to study. Not to mention that the study guides provided for previous exams didn't help AT ALL for examinations. So, I feel good having spent my time cleaning... although I'm not really sure what I will do after the final.....
December 16th:
The final went just as expected: exceptionally common-sense, and the review I did of the study guide didn't help. Regardless, first one done again, and the professor looked up, pointed, and mouthed "I knew you'd be the first one done!"
I was able to finish up all my cleaning, with only some more packing, dishes, and laundry to be done. YAY!!!! I fly home on Sunday!!!
December 17th:
All packed! You know, except for the few small things like my toothbrush and other minor things that are packed last-minute.
I will be getting up at 4:00am, to leave by around 4:30am, then get to the airport by around 5:00am, board a plane around 5:40am. Said plane will then take off at 6:10, and arrives at HOME at 12:23pm!!
I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!!
My apartment is already nearly cleaned, with just the bathroom left to clean. Yeah, I know I should be focusing on studying, but in all honesty, the class with the remaining final is so common-sense that it would be a waste of my time to study. Not to mention that the study guides provided for previous exams didn't help AT ALL for examinations. So, I feel good having spent my time cleaning... although I'm not really sure what I will do after the final.....
December 16th:
The final went just as expected: exceptionally common-sense, and the review I did of the study guide didn't help. Regardless, first one done again, and the professor looked up, pointed, and mouthed "I knew you'd be the first one done!"
I was able to finish up all my cleaning, with only some more packing, dishes, and laundry to be done. YAY!!!! I fly home on Sunday!!!
December 17th:
All packed! You know, except for the few small things like my toothbrush and other minor things that are packed last-minute.
I will be getting up at 4:00am, to leave by around 4:30am, then get to the airport by around 5:00am, board a plane around 5:40am. Said plane will then take off at 6:10, and arrives at HOME at 12:23pm!!
I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS!!!
Dec. 13, 2011
Blah, I dislike how I feel after Pharm exams. No matter how much I study and prepare, I never like how I feel coming out of it. At this point, the only way I can get an A is if I get 100% on the exam AND get a full 10 points on the extra credit paper. Pretty sure I will come out of this with a B, which is FINE with me!
Hopefully the professor gets these grades out quickly, although knowing her, it will take a while.
Now to set to work on the extra-credit paper.... after a nap...
Hopefully the professor gets these grades out quickly, although knowing her, it will take a while.
Now to set to work on the extra-credit paper.... after a nap...
Dec. 12, 2011
Only a quick update: I got a 97% on that med/surg final!! THAT is how you start your finals week!!
Dec. 11, 2011
First exam is done. And who was totally prepared? Oh yeah, this kid here. I ROCKED that exam, and was the first one done. In fact, it was 120 questions, and I was done in 45 minutes.
Now I will spend some time working on studying for Pharmacology. Oh, I also handed in my long-term care paperwork, since it's actually due tomorrow and I don't feel like going out if I don't have to. It ended up being close to 40 pages I think? Maybe more than that.... It's off my plate, so I am not really worrying about it!
Now I will spend some time working on studying for Pharmacology. Oh, I also handed in my long-term care paperwork, since it's actually due tomorrow and I don't feel like going out if I don't have to. It ended up being close to 40 pages I think? Maybe more than that.... It's off my plate, so I am not really worrying about it!
Dec. 10-11, 2011
While I should be studying this weekend, I freely admit that I have spent more time wrapping presents and preparing for packing. And sleeping. I love that I get to sleep in. I did, however, manage to read every single page of notes from my med/surg class -- which my professor stated to be impossible! Bwahaha!!
Yeah, I hope it helps, though. If not, that would have been an enormous waste of time. First exam in the morning, and then I can focus my energies on Pharm.
Yeah, I hope it helps, though. If not, that would have been an enormous waste of time. First exam in the morning, and then I can focus my energies on Pharm.
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