Small World

5th August (Tuesday) - It's my first "official" day, not fully in the ward. I was given a brief overview on how the system flow go, together with questions on the basic normal and abnormal signs and care. Here are some random ones that I've been asked.

CI : Is 140 a normal reading for blood pressure (BP)?
Me : 140 is considered borderline. But if it's above 140, it's an early sign of hypertension.
CI : Some books do say 140, some say 130, nevertheless, it's a good answer.

CI : What is the very first thing that you do during an admission?
Me : Greet the patient, and introduce yourself.
CI : Yes, that's important. I know people often say check identity first but greeting and introducing yourself is the most important.

CI : When patient's glucometer reading is 3, what will happen to the patient?
Me : Tremors, fatigue, sweating...
CI : And these are the signs and symptoms of...
Me : Hypoglycemia.

As an added bonus, I ran into an old friend from college. She's been working there for a year now and she's really good with her job. Finally, someone from my batch. That's a big relief. I asked her whether the environment is stressful and she answered, "If you like doing procedures, then this is a fun place to work with." Yes, not much paperwork, I hope.
I was also given the chance to join one of the staff for an admission procedure. Not much difference from what I've learnt, but it involves a lot of talking at certain areas which I need to get myself familiarize with, like how the costs are separated and certain items needs extra charge. Again, not easy, I've never been that good with costs. Argh.
I've also befriended with two other girls who are newcomers in the ward, except they had been in the ward two weeks earlier than me. They took me to the food court located beside the main building and holy, it's
a food paradise. Seriously, nasi lemak, plain rice with sauce and side dishes like meats or vegies, sandwiches, burgers, waffles, ice cream, curry noodles, asam laksa, cakes and pastries. I can see why many people love going there. The price are reasonable and there's a lot of variety to choose from.
After lunch, we were sent to the medical reports room. I thought we were going to end up like errand girls, running back and forth with the thick files, instead, we were given a brief theory about the importance of medical records. Especially if it falls to the wrong hands. I'm sure you know it too without having long dreary explanations. That's all for now.