First Week Review

So far, the first week went pretty well- not to mention we had a three-day weekend right after.  Life’s tough for the folks here at nursing school.

But honestly, my first week was great.  It’s interesting how three weeks can get you out of the school-habit so quickly :).  I was a little rusty at getting up, and then actually doing something with my day (oh vacation, I’m not going to lie, I really do miss you).  I already adore my professors, and am loving the new schedule- I don’t start until 10:30 on Mondays! How crazy is that?

However, 5:15 a.m. blares at me like a car horn on Thursdays and Fridays for my psych rotation.  It’s ok, because this clinical is TOTALLY worth it.  My clinical instructor is new, and is a recent JHUSON master’s graduate.  He went to Davis for undergrad (Aggies represent!), and JHU for his nursing degree.  He’s pretty young, but is so passionate and knowledgeable about his field.  He actually worked on the unit we’re in for 5 years, so he knows everyone, and knows how the floor works which is a real bonus for us newbies.

On Thursday and Friday, I mostly worked with the schizophrenic patients, which was fascinating. From what I can tell so far, psych nursing is providing a lot of listening and understanding time, while also administering care and a safe environment for patients.  It sounds like a reasonable balance, but sometimes these particular patients are not reasonable like you or I.

I worked and listened mostly within the therapy groups, which tends to try to help patients focus on ways to prevent themselves from not taking their medications, not listening to certain voices, and how to make reasonable behavior choices.  Doesn’t sound like much, but it means a lot to the patient’s family members, friends, and ultimately, the patient.

It was awesome being able to sit in and listen to the nurses and doctors work together to help manage patient’s behaviors and feelings, without stepping on their independence or insulting them.  I can tell I am going to learn a LOT on this unit!

On a weekend note I had a family friend in town and it was great to kick back, watch some movies, get a pedicure, and be with family for a bit. The highlight of the weekend was the American Visual Arts Museum, which is a national museum and education center for intuitive, self-taught artistry. We weren’t allowed to take photos inside, but there was plenty of outside artwork to be seen- check it out below.

Back to school work- those online lectures are calling me!

Hope everyone had a nice three-day weekend!