Flying Solo

This was my first week at work without my mentor/preceptor. I've finally finished orientation and I'm on my own...!

There are so many steps and phases in this profession. First there were the prerequisites, then actual nursing school and clinicals, next graduation, and after that passing the NCLEX and actually becoming an Registered Nurse. I thought it would sort of end there but then there was the months-long orientation with a preceptor, learning the ropes, and finally independence!

I was/am nervous about being on my own but luckily I've had a good first week so far. It can get REALLY busy and I haven't quite mastered the art of being in four places at the same time...

Ever felt like...

... you might accidentally pull someones toes clean off their foot? Huh, no? Oh, must be this weird profession I've gotten myself into.

The other day I was cleaning this patient's foot which looked something like this picture but a lot blacker (accurate odor description though) and I really really thought that as I was removing the bandage I was going to pull the toes right off. It was like something from a horror movie. In my mind I think when I see weird/gross stuff like this I just figure that it can't be real (must be some special effects or something!). Funnier or weirder may be how we (nurses) will talk about disgusting wounds like the one I saw while we're eating lunch. HA! It's crazy what a human being can get used to.

Where'd you get those...?

There are some nurses on my floor that wear some seriously booty marking tight scrub pants.

Call me old fashioned but it seems a little weird and inappropriate. Not to mention that there is the potential you'll be kneeling into some shit, piss, vomit, blood, or worse in those sexy numbers... Patients probably like 'em though.