What a Week

Big 1st Test, Big 1st Paper, Wet To Dry Dressings, some stressful moments along with some really good belly laughs. I survived!

Exercise has just become a must along with vitamins. I felt a cold coming on yesterday.
Feel better today, but realize sitting on my backside with a book nonstop is probably
not very healthy. The goal is to be a nurse...not grow a second backside. Back to Zumba.

Nutrition, Culture, Medications and Drug Math, next. I'm strapped in and ready to go
(I think).

First Clinical Day

Fright turned to fright-excitement this week as clinicals drew near. I stayed
up way to late on Wednesday evening pressing my uniform, buying supplies, reviewing
vitals along with the reminiscence paper parameters.

Thursday finally came. I will never forget all the details of my first clinical day. The whole experience was amazing and I found myself sad when we were told it was time to go.

While I have much improvement to make, I can't wait for the next clinical experience.

Week Two

Oh my gosh, I can actually do a blood pressure and pulse without whacking my new
"sistahs" in the head with my stethoscope (Thanks for your love and patience group 6)!
My goal for next week: count respirations while taking a full minute pulse...baby steps.

What a week...so much new, detailed and exciting information. Can I remember it all
and then be able to connect the dots (critical thinking)? Clinicals and Test time are right around
the corner. I can her my mom saying to me right this very minute-"stop anticipating
and start participating-it will all fall into place, Patti Jo".

A funny: while reciting infection control facts out loud this week, my husband grabbed a
guitar and started singing " MRSA-MRSA me, staph bacteria ain't what it used to be" to the
tune of the late-great Marvin Gaye song tilted Mercy Mercy Me. Thank God for levity
and supportive family.