Encouraging Words

Yesterday at the hospital was my last day working with Luis and he gave me some encouraging words to take with me. This whole nursing process has been overwhelming and stressful, which has lead me to doubt my abilities and hard work. But Luis reassured me that I will make a great nurse. He asked me to keep him updated on my nursing career because he wanted to hear some good news. It was so comforting to hear that he has complete faith in me and knows I am capable of being a great nurse someday. What I learned most from Luis is that a little friendliness goes a long way. Sometimes the way people are treated in a hospital is horrible. Nurses and techs have no respect for their patients and the people around them. But Luis relayed the message that a smile or small gesture can make someone’s day. Being a nurse is not only about the big things like giving shots and drawing blood. It’s about the atmosphere and attitude.

One Outfit Can Change Everything

I just got back from a great vacation in LA, Lake Arrowhead and Reno, but now going to start back up at the hospital tomorrow. I hope I jump right back into the flow and enjoy the day. Yesterday when I went shopping I found the suit I’ve been looking for, for my nursing interview. It’s everything I wanted and  I’m glad that is one more thing I don’t have to worry about. I felt so professional when I tried it on and I definitely want to feel my best on the big interview day. The preparation is slowing coming along.

Also, I finally got into the nutrition class at IVC that I’ve been trying to register for. I was so stressed out about getting that class because it each section was completely full, but everything worked out and I got in the class! I had to talk to the professor and tell him my sob story, but at least he had sympathy. I’m so excited that things are coming together. It’s such a stress reliever!

Just a thought

Today was just another day at a hospital. I really enjoyed today because I got to work with Luis. Luis had been my supervisor and mentor throughout my volunteering experience. He has tough me so much since I’ve been there and encouragingly forces me to ask questions. Luis is very talkative and shares with me any insights he has.

I kept busy today by admitting patients, cleaning up and watching a few IV pokes. During the day I feel like I have so much to write about, but when I get here I seem speechless. Maybe I will get better at jotting down my thoughts.

Learning Everyday

Today’s events at the hospital were minimal. Time passed by slow, and patients were being discharged. Days like these get frustrating as a volunteer because I feel useless and in the way. But it seems on the slow days I learn the most. I was only at the hospital for 3 hours today, but appreciated my time there. An infant came in with a possible urinary tract infection and learned the process to retrieve a sterile urine sample from the infant. Using a catheter, the sample was taken from the fussy and restless baby. Because the infant was a female, the sample was a little more difficult to get. As I watched the nurse perform this procedure, she walked through the process for me. Just watching this made me feel better about the day knowing I learned something very useful for the future.

I tried to sign up for my last prerequisite class today and the nutrition class I needed was full. I’ve worked so hard to get where I need to be, and now I find out I’m pushed back. I always feel like I’m taking two steps, but really it’s three steps back! I guess my other options are to try and push my way into the class or find another online class. I just don’t have time to waste to fight for this class. But it’s something I just have to do.

Here's to the beginning

This new blog is to start a new journey for my nursing career. A place to gather my thoughts, remember my experiences and create a timeline. Since I’ve started my volunteer work at Emanuel hospital, I’ve been inspired to start writing about the things I run into. I’ve been learning so much by just being in the ER and I am so grateful for the opportunity.

I went into the hospital today and shadowed Sarina. Sarina is an amazing tech who goes above and beyond her job. She is married with two kids and is going back to school to better her career. She just lets me follow her around and answers any questions I have. She definitely makes me feel comfortable and not like I am being bothersome. The day started out really slow, and in a blink of en eye picked up with every room being filled. But that is a typical day in the ER. Here’s to the beginning of a summer of volunteer work.