Monday, July 28, 2008

What it feels like to not wake a patient up

Unfortunately....I had to experience this today. As an anesthesia provider.....we put patients to sleep everyday and at the end of the case....we wake them back up. Simple...easy...for the most part. I have only been doing clinical rotations for one year...and I have always dreaded this day. Luckily..there was a large positive aspect to this case...the fact that this unfortunately young lady was giving 4 other people a second chance at life.

I know organ donation is a touchy subject to many people. And being a part of an organ donation (procurement) definitely leaves you with a knot in your stomach...and drains the emotions out of you. I didn't shed a tear...as many of us in the healthcare field have learned...death is a part of life. It was just the first time.....that I only got to deliver half of the anesthetic. Fortunately for me...it was no ones fault...not the surgeons fault...not my fault...and I think that makes it easier the first time. Also the positive aspect that this person is saving other peoples lives helps. However..it is still not easy...and I'm sure I won't have sweet dreams tonight.

On a MUCH MUCH Brighter note....P90X is AWESOMEEEEEE!!! THats all I can say about it. I can't wait to post comparisons at the 30 day mark! I love this program and recommend it to everyone out there who doesn't feel that running alone gets them "ripped". I can feel my shoulder getting stronger and stronger each day. My legs, my abs, my back, everything is tightening up. My diet has been much cleaner as well. I did a 6 mile run yesterday...but MAN is it hard to run in the heat. Hope everyone has a great week!!!!

p.s. I didnt know they really put tags on your toe before they take you to the morgue.. ...sorry..random

12 comments:

i am Susan said...

That's terrible news, but I guess it is a part of life.I don't know if I'd be able to handle those situations.

Good job on the P90x...glad you are feeling stronger: )

Anonymous said...

Hi Baby,
I know it's so hard to be part of this for the 1st time, but it is part of the circle of life and makes us all appreciate each other & our health more!
Love,
Mommy

TNTcoach Ken said...

I don't know how you guys handle those situations. I'm hearing nothing but good stuff about P90x...

jahowie said...

That's awful. I'm sorry that you had a bad day.

Hearing you talk about the p90x makes me want it even more!! Keep up the good work.

Danielle Runs said...

you are one tough cookie!

i love you girl, and am SO proud of you! (i hope you know this)

you are doing so well in everything you do!!!

i can't wait to see your ripped pics... or better yet, maybe in person!

We need to plan a get together ASAP!

Laura said...

Christine, that must be so difficult! I'm proud of you for helping others though... the work you do is such a gift.

Brooke said...

Our first clinical rotation was at a nursing home & we had our patients for 2 weeks at a time. Both of my first 2 patients died between week 1 and 2. It was so sad.
You're right though, death is a part of life & personally, I believe organ donation is a beautiful thing.

triguyjt said...

i dont think it can go any easier no matter how much you experience it...perhaps you just come to grips with it a little better....

Brian said...

had my sugery today. the girl was still in school who knocked me out. she did a good job i think as i'm still sleepy

beth said...

way to stay strong in a tough situation....can't wait to hear the P90X progress...
oh and skirt chasers? awesome! any excuse to go to colorado- you will have so much fun!

jahowie said...

Ladder golf...no, I didn't make my own. My parents have one made out to the pvc pipes, but this one was the wimpy store bought version. Even the balls were soft and not the real golf balls.

Benson said...

It is a realization that makes us appreciate people like you. good on ya for such a good perspective on your day.

so glad you're getting done with the p90x.
that skirt chaser race looks like tons of fun. enjoy.