Monday, July 09, 2007

Change is Good - Part IV: Week 4

Things are still exciting and new in Recovery.

I am enjoying the flow and turn-over very much. It is not unlike E.R.; lots of fast-pace activities, and a set methodology of patient care that is both routine and unique (if that makes sense?).

The time we spend is pretty intense, lots of guiding parents (and patients) through the journey from anesthesia to consciousness. The transition is quite amazing.

I like especially the initial time I get to spend with the kids when they are still soundly asleep, before the parents are brought into the room. They are - for the most part - so deeply asleep that there isn't any way to relate to them other than as being incredibly vulnerable. I get to gently talk to them, especially the little ones, stroke their hair maybe, and try to set the scene for the next couple of hours. It is almost like whispering sweet nothings of calm and nurturing. I like that especially. Lots of "You're all done now, you are in the waking up room now" and "big deep breaths, go back to sleep, you're safe here".

I sometimes wonder if I am saying it for them, or me...

Then I get to bring parents in. I try to give them the information they need to assist in easing the kids out of the drug-induced haze they have just spent time in. It is interesting tailoring the information I give to the parents I am meeting for the first time. There may have been a glimpse of their farewell to their kid at the door to the O.R., but for the most part the first time I see them is when I go to the waiting room to get them, and "bring them back".

"He is just starting to wake up"
"She has been with me for just about 10 minutes"
"He is still very groggy, so the best thing is to let him sleep it off"

Explain the monitors, show them the wounds, do the discharge teaching. Then once the kids wake up lots of ice water and Popsicles. Then "Bye now, take care"

People (that I know) have been really interesting. I have been told by quite a few that I seem lighter, happier and the like. I totally agree. Even after the busy, hectic days I am still excited to go back. Good stuff, aye?

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