Did I ever mention that I feel good whenever I wear my nursing uniform. I take pride with my profession and when I’m able to do what I love, there’s a spark of happiness in the midst of stress.
How I wish I still got my crazy friends in Laguna but since they are not here, I just have to find other ways to take out all the stress toxins.
Today is my first duty at the dialysis unit at the new hospital I’m rendering my volunteer services. I least expected to be assigned there but for some reason I’m grateful that I got there first. The people are friendly and they taught us several things, I wasn’t able to pick up most of them but I really appreciate every tips of advices they release.
First day was pure orientation and we handled some basic tasks. I was kind a surprise that almost all of the staff there were a year or two younger than me. There’s a part of me that feels embarrassed when I’m being taught by young ones. But no big deal. I was with a Leah, another new volunteer like me.
Second day, I was with Michael, like me he’s a newly accepted volunteer though he just graduated this year. This day I was able to record a video of the termination routine and it became really helpful.
Today was my third day and it has been the best so far. I was with Leah and Cath. Cath is also a volunteer but she has been there for 8 months. The first quarter has been really quiet but the climax started at around 11 am where most of the patient are about to terminate the procedure. I finished two machines though I messed up on the second. Good thing I learned to teach myself how to view things positively and just set mistakes as learning experiences. Also, I was able to cannulate a patient today who happens to be my aunt (just knew it a while ago). It wasn’t as successful as it should be, but I must commend myself (appropriate? lol) with what I did. Besides, it was my first time, anyways. At around 4:30 pm, the remaining patients are all subject for termination. Another great opportunity for me, cause I was able to handle 3 machines with minimal assistance. Now, I can tell that I’m now confident when it comes to termination of the dialysis machine.
To sum it up, my first three days at the dialysis unit was very productive. You bet I pushed myself real hard just not to make myself look like an amateur. Next stop, priming and initiation. This time I got no video handy but I’m fine.
Goodluck!
