Sunday, October 19, 2008

Clinical Rotation

Time is sure flying by! My first clinical rotation has already come and gone and I start my next one this week. I had my clinical evaluation last week, and I got a glowing verbal and written evaluation. My instructor had so many positive things to say, she almost made me cry! To summarize, she mostly commented on my care and compassion, and how my patients are obviously well cared for and seem happy to have me helping them. So that made me feel good. I know I am headed in the right direction.

This past clinical I learned a few new skills – I have given my first sub-Q injection (low molecular weight heparin). The very first one didn’t go quite as smoothly as I was hoping cuz I was SOOOO nervous, but the patient and I survived! Administering the second one was a piece of cake (same injection, same patient, just on a different day). I have also given G-tube feedings and flushes (to my nursing readers, I know that it isn’t that complicated, but to me it was fascinating). We finally got to administer oral medications (once again, not that complicated – follow the orders, do your double checks, etc, but it was another step in the right direction). Plus we did the usual morning care and feedings. I can’t believe how nerve wracking it is to feed patients who are a high choking risk. I was a nervous wreck the whole time!

My highlight was assisting with a patient on a ventilator!!!! I was just so fascinated by the whole thing (I now know I never want to be on one, but it was fascinating nonetheless!) The technology behind it is amazing! That whole experience of assisting the patient on the ventilator made me now seriously consider looking into working in the ICU….

This week I start obstetrics – that shall be interesting! We have completed our 5 weeks of theory, and have practiced in the lab setting one week. There is a mannequin that gives birth that we got to practice on (technology is amazing!) Plus there were several practice stations for assessments that we got to practice – nothing compared to the real thing, I am sure! I am looking forward to this placement, although a little nervous about seeing my first placenta!! Not looking forward to that…… At least my back should have a bit of a break, as I will be going from 100-300 lb patients, to patients that are only a few lbs :)

All in all, I am LOVING school so far this year :)

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