Ward Practices

The clinical practices that we had observed during this attachment differ greatly from what we had learnt in school. Things like sterility and positioning which are emphasized during our learning phase are not fully followed here in the ward.

At least, through such comparisons and observations, we can learn to observe the wrongs and practise the rights.

In a few instances, I have to start asking the staff if certain procedures are supposed to be done this way. To their credit, they did point out that the way that they are doing could be wrong and for me to remember my clinical skills taught in school. Fortunately, they were not offended by my questions even though I've tried to be as tactful with it as possible!

I do think that by observing the proper ways of doing things is good but if we were to truly learn from the 'wrong' then we better start asking the correct questions.

Expectations of us are higher now though. When one of us asked our CP instructor whether to assess us for feeding patient(orally), the instructor replied: "Feeding? That is soooooo year 1!"

Oh yeah. We are the seniors now. :)

Uncommon Attitude For The Common World

~Attitude~

manner, disposition, feeling, position, etc., with regard to a person or thing; tendency or orientation, esp. of the mind: a negative attitude; group attitudes.

• Friends whom you thought you could trust, betrayed you by lying to you.
• People who you thought are the kindest souls you ever met, turned out to judge you based on rumours.
• People whom you thought that are your friends turned out to be using you for their benefits.

We have all encountered such incidents and people before but still why does it hurt so much every time it happened to you again?

Speaking the truth all the time does pose a problem sometimes.

Some people just cannot accept the truth.

Must we all put up an act just for the sake of each other or for self?

I wanted very much to be nurse. I did all that I possibly could have done just to get into this course. As I faced the varied changes and characters along my journey, I've found something that bothers me deeply.

A noble profession filled with people of less noble intentions.

I do not seek to judge them, nor do I want to work with them unless I absolutely have to.

I believe the solution is to change my own attitude. I cannot join them in what they do because I cannot lie( at least I can't even lie properly).

I asked my closest friends what am I like? They told me that I did everything that I chose with a lot of passion. I chased after what others said is impossible. They also told me that my downfall will come about because of my passion.

To those that have hurt me, you can continue to hurt me.

To those who used me, you can continue to use me.

To those who hate me, you can continue to hate me.

To those who judged me, despised me, wants to make my life a complete misery, spread lies about me, ignore me and even want to make me QUIT...

please continue to do so.

After all, when all the people who are standing around can't see my pains and sufferings, SOMEONE will still see.

I believe in justice. Someday, you will reap what you sowed.

I'll pray for you.

Power & Self Reflections

Received a text message yesterday sharing an experience with an instructor. It was said that the instructor was unreasonable and reprimanded the learners repeatedly, making accusations undermining one's integrity. Clearly, the person who texted me was very disturbed and was teary.

Power is an intriguing thing. Some say it corrupts.

Authority comes with status and position. The privileged should have a keen sense of reflective mind to examine that the power is not abused. It is a tool when put to use, gather attention and facilitate learning with created opportunities. Like everything else, it is easier said than done. This is esepcially so when one is not used to power or experienced it for too long! Put to inappropriate use, power is destructive and discourage learners.

Sigh! the unequal distribution of power is a common phenomenon. For the less privileged, one can either attempt to change the behaviour of the powerful via feedback to the authority or up to a reasonable extent, take this as an opportunity to learn from a negative illustration.

I wish all is well with this clinical attachment. Merry Christmas and a happy 2010!

Something Meaningful

Something meaningful that I saw in the staff's lounge (which double-up as the store room for the ward!), that I thought I will share with everyone. I hope that all of you are doing well on the first day of CP.

The Exams Are Over

The exams are finally over. Now is the time to look forward to the coming attachment. For those starting next week, I wish you guys all the best and for those going home to have a safe journey back.

Cheers!