After a week of deliberation on the WILTW threads, I can honestly say I'm glad for a new week! I have only worked one day this week so far, so not a very giant list to share.
This week in nursing, I have learned....
There is a very sad line between moral and legal decision-making in healthcare. When a DNR can be revoked by family only to prolong torture and a DNR not granted on an already terminal suicide attempt, we really need to find a way to make moral and legal stop being mutually exclusive.
After a month of horrible patient acuity, I'm realizing that now "normal" days actually feel a bit slow. Amazing how being pushed beyond your limits teaches you to increase those limits.
I've learned what pleurx drains are. Now I want to play with one.
It takes a lot longer to bring up a 2.3 potassium than a 1.1 mag. A lot.
I have a way about me that makes patients confess very, very strange things to me. (Apparently?)
I'm going to learn tomorrow if short hair is easier at work than long in a braid, bun or ponytail. Also, tomorrow I will get to compare my steps at work on my new Fitbit vs. the app in my phone. And..... Tomorrow is my last day in the 18-34 demographic.
I've realized that hospitals would be more mom-nurse-friendly if shifts were 9-9.
Looking at community health job postings has made me realize I have no idea how to figure out government pay scales. I understand the grade, but how does your starting step get determined?
I've included my children in the "daddy's schedule is changing, so mommy's might have to, too," conversation. It was hard to say no when my girl asked if I could "just" not work for awhile.
Crack is a hell of a drug.
Almost 1.5 years since graduation. I think I've decided I know how to nurse now. It's an amazing feeling!
How about you? What have you learned?
The weekly WILTW threads will remain in yellow as long as we remember to keep the majority of posts/comments focused on things nursing related. Students are welcome to share what they learned in their journey to becoming nurses, and of course, CNAs/PCTs/MAs and other unlicensed people who are part of the nursing team are welcome to contribute as well.
As this thread doesn't really have one single topic, it's very nature is to evolve into conversations that are off topic from individual points shared. This is okay, as long as the majority of posts in the conversations remain nursing, nursing school and UAP-related. Questions or comments on this can be shared in the site feedback thread with "WILTW" in its title.
Just some advice - trying out the different types /brands of stethoscopes is a good idea but you may want research the cost of the scope you decide on online. I found a pretty good deal on my Littman - in an unusual color that typically cost more AND included engraving. Have fun! :)
Since I am not working as a nurse I have to reach deep to connect my week to nursing but I will give it a shot.
â–ª My mom's Dexcom arrived and I managed to get the sensor on with some finagling. It's been a long time since she did the week long study with it. I hope it helps her - I know most people don't use the term brittle diabetic anymore but dang, she *is*.
â–ª The ENT is weirdly cool with examining the nares and even snipping a few small polyps without gloves
â–ª I feel for people going through withdrawal - my Effexor got off schedule (seriously sad when I can't remember if I already took it) and the feelings I get when I've gone without are no joke. Like big moths flapping around my brain. :thumbdown:
â–ª My knees are sporting some great bruises after another Great Moments in Klutziness episode. Anyone have luck with Arnica reducing the discoloration? Also, does lifelong klutziness mean I should steer clear of OR nursing? (Mental images of me crashing into the sterile fields)
After a really, really, truly horrible day, I'm seriously considering calling in right NOW.... Little voice on left side saying "just do it already...you have PTO to burn" and the voice on the left says "don't be such a wimp, leave this Pity Party and go to bed dude."
â–ª My mom's Dexcom arrived and I managed to get the sensor on with some finagling. It's been a long time since she did the week long study with it. I hope it helps her - I know most people don't use the term brittle diabetic anymore but dang, she *is*.
OMGBBQ, I am your man for Dexcom support.
1. Stick the sensor applicator to you before removing the weirdly big guard that prevents the plunger being pressed.
2. Pinch up the skin around the adhesive tape, like you're doing an insulin injection but thicker, before pressing the plunger. It'll reduce the discomfort of the probe going in.
3. If you use a little skin-tac or mastisol on the skin (not recommended by Dexcom) you can keep that sensor on twice as long. Some people get 30 days out of one, I get maaaybe 10. Adhesives don't stick to me, which is annoying for a lot of reasons. When it says to replace the sensor just go in the menu and stop it then start it again, it'll act like a new sensor.
4. Wipe the transmitter (grey lumpy thing that clips in the sensor) with alcohol with every change.
5. If a sensor ever falls off early, or has a problem and gives you an error, call Dexcom. They'll either fix it or mail you a new sensor for free.
â–ª I feel for people going through withdrawal - my Effexor got off schedule (seriously sad when I can't remember if I already took it) and the feelings I get when I've gone without are no joke. Like big moths flapping around my brain. :thumbdown:
My favorite is "brain zaps." It's apparently less fun than it sounds... or maybe exactly as not fun as it sounds... I don't mean to make light of your suffering. I mean, not too much. I hope you feel better now. :)
WellThatsOod
897 Posts
Perhaps there will be one at the medical supply store already!