My Horoscope for 2011

Get ready to rock it in 2011, Scorpio! You've got so much going for you in nearly every life arena you won't know where to focus first. For starters, you'll have more work opportunities than you'll know what to do with. In fact, with so many alluring offers crossing your desk, the whole picking and choosing fiasco could easily lead to typical Scorpio overkill. Extreme by nature, the idea of having too much to handle sounds like a total joyride until the reality of having zero time for anything (like eating and sleeping) kicks into your stubborn consciousness.

You thrive under intensity, so that aspect of your ridiculously busy life won't be a problem. It's just that Saturn bearing down in your sector of sleep, dreams and retreat will feel like an ongoing thorn in your side should you neglect taking enough time out for yourself to re-balance and shut out the demands of the big bad world.

Balance is never easy for a Scorpio. You're like a moth to a flame when it comes to amping up the drama in your life. By the time your half-birthday arrives in May, you'll be under the extreme influence of six planets lining up in your work sector in the Cardinal sign of new beginnings: Aries. And yes, that could literally mean you'll be working on at least six different projects simultaneously. Just watch that your health doesn't suffer as a result. Double up on the supplements and be sure to get enough rest to see you through this exciting but demanding time.

Check out yours at:http://shine.yahoo.com/page/2011-horoscope

What I Got For Christmas

For the Holiday, I got everything I asked for and more.

I needed an external hard drive to backup the contents on my laptop and got one. Last year my 5 year old laptop just stopped working one day and I could not retrieve the contents on it. I was pretty bummed for a while but got over it. I HIGHLY suggest everyone to use an external hard drive or jump drives to back up important or desired information.

I also needed and received new dress shoes for work. On rotations we have to dress like professionals which includes business casual. I have a few shoes to wear but was in need of some more comfortable shoes for all day use. HIGHLY recommend getting comfortable shoes for any job, internship or rotation that is all day on your feet otherwise you are compromising foot health for fashion.

I also received some vacuum style packing bags. I need them for when I travel from rotation to rotation in order to minimize the luggage I am taking. As we know, transportation is getting more expensive due to luggage fees. I have not tried the bags out yet but from what they advertise they should be some miracle workers.

I also received a gift card to Starbucks. I am not always in the mood for coffee but I enjoy meeting up with people for coffee or tea at Starbucks to talk or study.

I got some highly desired cash. As a student, cash has always been on any gift list. School costs (especially when you are working for free or actually paying to work), transportation costs, living costs, etc.

I got to spend over 4 days with my whole family including my niece which is above all the most desired thing on my gift list. It was a great time since my family is very close and we really do enjoy spending time together.

Finally, I got my last present this morning, the stomach flu. I have been sick all morning and just now am feeling slightly better. I am not sure where I got it but my mom also has it. It is no fun and I feel extremely lazy. I have done practically nothing today because every time I move from my bed I feel nauseated and my head kills due to my dehydration.

Overall Christmas was WONDERFUL except for the the "extra present" that I got this morning that was not on my list!

Why do college students get such long winter vacations?

By Noreen Malone

Many college students have already landed at home for a long winter's nap, taking back their old bedrooms and vying for control of the remote. In 2009, the Explainer answered why college students get such long breaks. The column is reprinted below.

Why do students get so much time off?Most working adults don't get much official time off during the holidays—the Explainer, for instance, is only released into the wild on Christmas and New Year's Day. But students get tons of vacation time—some college breaks last as long as six weeks. How'd these kids get so lucky?

They can thank the stagflation and energy crisis of the Carter era, mostly. American colleges originally based their academic calendars around the agricultural cycle, commencing the semester after the harvest—much later than the August start that's typical today. They also once hewed to a standard two-week break around Christmas, with exams scheduled for after the holiday.

But in the 1970s, when many academic institutions found themselves in dire fiscal straits (one national task force predicted that more than one-quarter might be forced to close their doors), administrators realized that if they altered the calendar, they could reduce spending. By starting the term during late summer and by shutting their doors for a month or more over the winter holidays, they saved significantly on heating costs at a time when oil prices where cripplingly high. Serendipitously, this cost-cutting measure coincided with a broader movement inside academia toward experimental pedagogy, like study abroad, mini-classes, and internship programs that could be completed over a slightly longer break.


The shift toward a longer winter break actually represents a move back to an earlier tradition. Britain's Oxford and Cambridge Universities, upon which many of the oldest American colleges modeled themselves, settled into standardized terms in the mid-13th century. Students enjoyed a winter break of nearly a month between the Michelmas and Hilary terms at Oxford, and between Michelmas and Lent at Cambridge. As the term names suggest, the demands of the Christian religious calendar helped dictate the timing and length of the break. The difficulty of travel in the pre-internal-combustion era and the cost of heat and light during coldest days of the year may also have played a part.

Public elementary and secondary schools usually have a holiday break of just a week, as they must comply with state-mandated hour requirements for in-school instruction. Private schools historically have slightly longer breaks. Students at the boarding school Phillips Exeter Academy, for instance, had a two-week break at the holidays in 1850 and will get 18 days off this year.

With many academic institutions once again under financial duress, and with ever-growing attention paid to sustainability, colleges are seeking to make the most of their resources over the winter break. Some have begun renting out facilities for conferences over the holidays or furloughing some of their maintenance and support staff.

Makes Sense to Some People

Calvin Hoover of Salem, Oregon, who last year repeatedly called 911 to report that someone had stolen an ounce of marijuana from his truck, an act of foolishness that turned him from victim to criminal in a matter of hours.

Sterling F. Wolfname, a murder suspect on the run from police in Billings, Montana, who was caught by police when they spotted a man who had "Wolfname" tattooed on the side of his head.

Douglas Gardner of Vermont, who picked up his eighth DUI just days after spending 20 years in prison for killing a man in the course of committing his seventh DUI.

Frank Singleton, 21, was released from jail. However, when he realized that he didn't have a ride home, he walked straight into the prison parking lot and attempted to carjack a woman. He was foiled when he realized that he couldn't drive a car with a stick shift.

Demetrius Robinson, 28, wanted to rob a Golden Pantry store late one night, but he needed to pass the time as naturally as possible until he and the clerk were alone, so he decided to fill out a job application. Not a bad idea, except he left his real name on the application, along with his uncle's phone number. After he robbed the store, it didn't take long for police to track him down. He didn't get the job.

Spent the Day Downtown

My aunt, my mother and I braved the blustery cold Chicago weather today and spent the day downtown.

We shopped at the Germany Christmas market,

we saw the gigantic Christmas tree,

we walked around Macy's,

we toured the "Marshall Field's" Christmas windows,
we had afternoon tea at the Walnut Room, we did some downtown shopping,

we saw the Art Institute's wreathed lions

and we saw a group of firemen singing Christmas carols.

All in all it was a very fun day but I would not expect anything less from Chicago style Holidays.

Thanks Ladies!

Facts About December

December comes from the Latin word decem which means ten. It was originally the tenth month of the year in the Roman calendar which began with March. When January and February were added to the Roman calendar, December became the twelfth month of the Gregorian calendar. It is one of the seven months that has thirty one days.

Until 46 B.C., December only had 29 days. But the Roman statesman Julius Caesar added two days to December, which made it 31 days.

Illinois admitted to the Union, December 3,1818.

Amendment 21 to the United States Constitution, repealing prohibition, proclaimed, December 5, 1933.

People in several European countries celebrate December 6 as the Feast of Saint Nicholas.

Mississippi admitted to the Union, December 10, 1817.


The first Ten Amendments to the U.S. Constitution (The Bill of Rights) were ratified on December 15, 1791.

Boston Tea Party, December 16, 1773.

Amendment 13 to the U.S. Constitution, ending slavery, proclaimed, December 18, 1865.

In the northern hemisphere, the winter solstice or shortest day of the year occurs and winter begins. This takes place on December 21 or 22.

The Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, Mass., December 21, 1620.

December 28th is regarded by many superstitious people as the most unlucky day of the year.

Texas admitted to the Union, December 29, 1845.

Meth Use...What is going on?

Meth use is become a more prevalent problem as people have found easier ways of obtaining the materials and methods of making the drug at home. It is scary to know how these people 'cook' the meth because it is extremely dangerous. The meth labs include:

◦Cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine
◦Lithium batteries
◦Rock salt
◦Lye
◦Iodine
◦Paint thinner
◦Drain cleaner
◦Heet gasoline additives
◦Aluminum foil
◦Matchbooks (red phosphorus)

Through my previous rotation at a psych ward, it is devastating to see how meth use can ruin a person's life and relationships. Since meth is a stimulant drug, it stimulates the body with a euphoric high. People feel happy during that high. But the high does not last forever and coming down is pretty rough. A person detoxing on meth has to just crash because there is no antidote or treatment. So they will crash and then go through withdrawal because the body wants that high but is no longer getting it. Meth addictions are one of the hardest drug addictions to overcome and sadly many never recover. The seeking behavior that addicts use to find their next high turns into a lot of time and money spent which starts to affect the addicts ability to keep relationships with family, friends, etc.

Some people argue that requiring prescriptions for any medication that has pseudoephedrine in it, as the state of Oregon does, would decrease the meth use. I think that pseudoephedrine products should be available for people to use correctly as they work very well for flu and allergy relief. I believe that it is not the psuedoephedrine that is killing people but people are sadly killing themselves.

Rumor Vs. Truth

I would like to start a section on my blog called "Rumor Vs. Truth." This column is from a pharmacy newsletter I read called the "Pharmacist's Letter." In each issue, the authors expose about a dozen rumors facing a variety of medications. I will share just a few that I think pertain to over the counter drugs for a broader set of patients.


RUMOR: Colon cleansing and other "detoxification" methods leads to better general health.

TRUTH: This is based on a theory that over time the body accumulates harmful toxins such as metals and pesticides. Proponents believe special treatments including herbals or supplements given orally or as enemas, or special diets are needed to remove these toxins from the body.

But there is NO proof to support any of these theories...or that any special product or method will rid the body of toxins. The kidneys and liver are very efficient at filtering and eliminating toxins from the body.

Detoxification programs often include laxatives. These can cause significant diarrhea resulting in fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances. Some laxatives can even worsen heart failure or cause kidney failure in people at high risk. Enemas or colonics can also cause electrolyte imbalances or a perforated rectum. Extreme changes in the diet can lead to fatigue, diarrhea, or constipation. Long-term fasting can result in vitamin and mineral deficiencies and protein deficiency.
Advise patients to stick to standard measures...a good diet, regular exercise, using bulking agents (psyllium, etc) to stay regular if needed, etc.


RUMOR: Alka-Seltzer can cure a urinary tract infection (UTI).

TRUTH: One very popular home remedy is to use Alka-Seltzer tabs. It's proposed that by alkalinizing the urine, the sodium bicarbonate in Alka-Seltzer will inhibit some types of bacteria from growing in the bladder. But there is no good evidence that alkalinizing the urine helps to relieve symptoms of dysuria...whether due to infection or not. Studies have failed to show any benefit of sodium bicarbonate for treatment of UTIs.

Patients should see a doctor if they are experiencing any symptoms suggestive of a UTI...urgency, frequency, or pain when urinating. An improperly treated UTI can progress to a more serious kidney infection.



RUMOR: Vicks Vaporub applied to the feet can stop a cough.

TRUTH: This has been perpetuated by websites claiming a Canadian study proves that this works. But that’s where the trail turns cold. The group that supposedly published the study denies any knowledge of its existence.

The web is filled with glowing testimonials that this works. And many parents welcome it as an alternative to drugs in children. There’s no proof that this home remedy works. If you still want to try it, wear socks so the oils won’t stain the sheets. Do not dab Vicks in the nose hoping this will work better. The petrolatum in the product can cause a form of pneumonia if aspirated into the lungs.

Thank Goodness and How Ridiculous?

This first article appeared in the Des Moines newspaper on Nov. 23 and of course I freaked out because I live very near this area.

A Drake University student was robbed and then kidnapped as he walked to his car near his residence early today.

Michael Thaden, 21, was approached by a man in the 2900 block of Brattleboro Avenue about 1:15 a.m. Police said the man opened his heavy coat and displayed a silver handgun. He ordered Thaden to get in the vehicle.

After robbing him of $50, the gunman climbed in the passenger side and ordered him to drive. Police said the man did not say much, just barked orders, like, “Turn here,” and “Turn right.” They ended up near Valley West Mall. The gunman told Thaden to wait. He said a friend would be joining them.

When the gunman got out of the car, Thaden drove away. He called police shortly thereafter.
No arrests have been reported, and police have not identified a suspect.

Then this article appeared on Nov. 24 and became relieved but also dumfounded by why would someone do this?

Detectives on Wednesday determined that another reported kidnapping was a lie.

Drake University junior Michael Thaden, 21, told police he was kidnapped and robbed as he walked to his car near his residence early Tuesday. Wednesday, Polk County prosecutors charged and arrested Thaden with making a false police report. No motive for the alleged crime was given...

In a press release Police Sgt. Jeff Edwards said, “In the subsequent investigation follow-up, it has been determined that the kidnapping and robbery reported in this case did not occur.”
Thaden was charged with making a false police report.

"Significant time is put into every case that is made," Sgt. Jeff Edwards, Des Moines police spokesman, said in a news release. Police encourage people to report possible crimes, but Edwards emphasized that deliberately making a false report is a crime.

Got nothing better to do with your time??

Encouraging to know that the police keep the Drake area safe, too bad they cannot protect us from everything!

Comparing Prices Over the Years

Although today was Black Friday, I did not do any shopping. I have gone out before for 'black Friday deals' only to leave the store without the product I wanted (because they only had 5 models), with some product I never knew I needed but bought because it was on sale and frustrated at all humans because of the amount of people shopping or complaining all at the same stores.

This year Black Friday made me think about how prices of products have changed over the years as well as the variety of products available. For example, I remember paying about $150 for a printer which now can be bought for about $40. Also, my mom always remembers how she paid $480 for her first VHS player which now cannot even be bought in stores. Other fun cost comparisons:

Gallon of Gas:
1930 10 cents , 1960 25 cents , 1990 $1.34 , 2010 $2.80

Cost of a New Car:
1930 $600.00 , 1960 $2,600.00 , 1990 $16,950.00 , 2010 $28,958

Cost of a New House:
1930 $3,845.00 , 1960 $12,700.00 , 1990 $123,000.00 , 2008 $238,880

My First Discman:
1996: $60.00, 2010: People do not know what a disc man is anymore

Who Knew a Turkey Could Be So Funny?

While I was shopping this morning, I not only found a Christmas gift for my niece but I also got some good laughs in.

I was standing behind a sweet old lady waiting to get my purchases rung up. The lady began telling the cashier how she wanted to pick up a frozen turkey at the store, but couldn't find one big enough for her family.

She asked the boy at the register, "Do these turkeys get any bigger?"
The cashier replied, "No ma'am, they're dead."

I burst out laughing as did the old lady. The young cashier then realized what the old lady meant, turned red and also started laughing.

Just a funny story to start off your Thanksgiving week with some fun!

T-Shirts, T-Shirts Everywhere!

I know I am not the only person who has an overwhelming collection of t-shirts as I have seen the t-shirt quilts ideas on the Internet and have seen my mom make one from my sister's collection.
After sorting through the over 100 t-shirts that I have, I began to ask myself....Where did they all come from?

Sports, band, organizations, clubs, fundraisers, groups, committees, conferences....being way too involved!

Upon remembering the source of most of the shirts, I began to get very nostalgic about all that I did with memories flowing back immediately as if I had pictures in front of me. There is no way I can wear all of these shirts even in an entire year. So what to do with all these memories?

Ask my mom to make me a t-shirt quilt! Thanks MOM!

Free Beer Tour...WHERE?

While in St. Louis visiting, my family makes it a point to visit the Anheuser Busch plant and take the Budweiser Tour. Today, I went on my sixth or seventh tour or the facility and feel like I could almost give the tour myself. The whole beer making process is explained and you get to see the facilities were all the beer is made, fermented and packed. The Clydesdale horses and dalmatian are also on site to visit. The tour is fascinating, fun, interesting, historical and great with samples at the end!

Vacation Block, Here I Am!

Finally....Enjoying my one and only vacation time for the year!

Wish I could say that I was going on an adventurous trip across the world. Instead I have interviews, presentations and job searches filling up my few weeks. I have to start all this planning in order to potentially have a job in May after graduation.

However, this weekend I am doing something almost as fun as a world adventure...I am visiting my sister, brother in law and my cutest, most favorite niece in St. Louis!

Pharmacy Residencies and Fellowships

So what does all this verbage about residencies, fellowships, PhD work, that you may hear pharmacy students talking really mean?

The purpose of the residency (general or specialized) is to further develop you expertise as a clinician. The PGY1 is a more broader focus and the PGY2 has evolved into specialty practice to further develop skills to specialize in a particular field (i.e. psych, neuro, critical care, cardiovascular, etc).

A fellowship is meant to develop the skills of the individual as a researcher. Typically they market the capacity of developing you into a skill set necessary to be a principal investigator. Fellowships provide specialized training and experience within the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries while enhancing the role of pharmacists within industry.

Otherwise the PhD route gives you time to develop that skill set over the 1st 2 yrs and you have the remaining 2-3yrs to continue development and apply your work.

Iowa Pharmacy Board Says Marijuana is Medicine

The Iowa Board of Pharmacy Tuesday declared that marijuana is a drug with medicinal purposes. In doing so, it agreed to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule II under Iowa law.

The board found that while marijuana has a high potential for abuse, it is now considered to have accepted medical uses. Schedule I drugs are those that have no proven or accepted medical use.

But the board denied a request from petitioner Carl Olson of Des Moines that it promulgate rules on the medical use of marijuana. That is beyond the scope of the board's authority, chairman Vernon Benjamin said.

While the board can regulate drugs and pharmacists, it is up to the legislature to approve the medicinal use of marijuana, he said."We can't set any penalties. We can't set any guidelines on how marijuana's going to be produced, what standards are going to be. And I think all those kind of things are things the legislature's going to have the ultimate say-so about anyway," said Benjamin in remarks reported by local media.

The ball is now in the hands of the legislature, which so far has failed to act to pass a medical marijuana bill.

(by Phillip Smith, November 02, 2010)

GOOD or BAD?

-As a human, I could care less if people want to harm their own bodies as long as they are not harming me.

-As a pharmacist, this adds to the liability, regulation and monitoring responsibilities of our job.

Happy Halloween!

Happy HALLOWEEN!

Hope it is 'spooktacular'!

I miss trick-or-treating.

If I could dress up in any costume, it would be...Dorothy, from the Wizard of Oz since I have never been 'myself' before.

Congratulations!!

CONGRATULATIONS

Mr. and Mrs. Rodriguez!!

You mean so much to me as you do to so many other people. I am not loosing a sister but gaining an invaluable brother in law! Thanks for making me apart of your wedding and for being apart of my life.

I LOVE you both so much.

Yes, the Pharmacy Market is Saturated!

So let me dispel the misconception that getting a pharmacy degree ensures your job safety for the rest of your life

Many people tell me, "Oh you are lucky you are getting a pharmacy degree because there will always be demand for pharmacists."

YES and NO

Yes, health care professionals will always be needed.

No, the pharmacists market is currently saturated so getting a pharmacy job is just as difficult and competitive as any other job.

After attending a pharmacy career night tonight, I learned how saturated the market really is and that many companies are not hiring in certain areas or hiring at all. Also, there are more pharmacy schools popping up around the country making jobs more competitive.

Attending 6 years of school and getting a pharmacy degree does not guarantee ANYTHING especially in this economy or the current market and it especially does not guarantee "luck" as many people tell me.

October is American Pharmacists Month!

In the last quarter century, pharmacy has expanded its role within the health care delivery system from a profession focusing on preparation and dispensing of medications to patients to one in which pharmacists provide a range of patient-oriented services to maximize the medicine's effectiveness.

Pharmacy is practiced in a wide range of settings: community pharmacies, hospitals, long term care facilities, the pharmaceutical industry, mail service, managed care, and government (Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs, Indian Health Service, Public Health Service). A survey identified 112,000 pharmacists in community pharmacy (66,000 in chain pharmacies; 46,000 in independent pharmacies), 40,000 in hospitals, and 21,000 in consulting, government, academic, industry and other settings.

Educational requirements for pharmacists currently include: a six-year Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD). This extensive training makes the pharmacist the most knowledgeable health care professional when it comes to medicines and their use.

The pharmacist is on of the most accessible and most trusted health professional. In 1998 -- for the 10th consecutive year -- America’s pharmacists topped the Gallup Poll list of businessmen and professionals for their "honesty and ethical standards."

Medicines today have great power to heal and to improve the quality of life for millions of Americans. But medicines also may do serious harm if not taken correctly. This is where the role of the pharmacist is most important. You should choose your pharmacist as carefully as you choose a physician. It is best to use only one pharmacy so all medication records are at one location. This way there will be less risk of duplicating medicine or having one prescription interact harmfully with another.

Pharmacists who know their patients and have their medication profiles on file will be aware of possible harmful drug interactions or allergies to certain drugs. The pharmacist also will be able to discuss possible side effects; what foods, drinks, or activities that should be avoided while on a medication; what to do if you miss a dose; and a wide range of other helpful information.

The pharmacist is a key health care professional in helping people achieve the best results from their medications. Americans should choose a pharmacist they trust and build a partnership for good health.

Halloween Costume Ideas

Tic Tac Toe - Glue a container of Tic Tacs to the toe of your shoe.

Paper Shredder - Get some sheets of paper or old bills and envelopes and punch a hole in them. Then put a ribbon or rope through the hole and tie it around your neck. When someone asks what you are, shred some paper!

Quarter Pounder - Carry around some quarters and a hammer. When someone asks you what you are, pound a quarter.

Devil's Advocate - Carry a sign that says, "Vote for the Devil."

Quarterback - Wear a black shirt and tape a quarter to your back.

Cereal Killer - Dress in black and glue mini cereal boxes to your shirt. Stick plastic knives into the boxes and add some ketchup for "blood."

Black-Eyed Pea - Paint black circle around your eye and wear a white T-shirt with a large letter "P" on it.

Zebra - Wear a bra on the outside of your shirt and paint the letter "Z" on it.

Buccaneer - Hang a dollar from each ear.

CD Burner - Wear a blank CD around a neck and carry a pack of matches or a lighter.

God's Gift to Women - Gift wrap a large box and cut holes in the top and sides for your head and arms. Add a gift tag that says "To: Women" and "From: God."

Babysitter - Strap a doll to your rear-end and sit on it.

Peter Pan - Put a pan on your head with a name tag on it that says, "Hello, I'm Peter."

Dr. Pepper - Wear medical scrubs and attach peppers to your shirt.

Identity Crisis - Wear any color shirt and stick name tags, each with a different name, on the shirt.

What Psychiatric Patients Can Teach the World

1. Every person is an human being so treat them as you would want to be treated.

2. Judging other people makes you ignorant and makes you miss out on a lot of extraordinary opportunities

3. The problems that I worry about on a day to day basis are insignificant in comparison to the problems that psychiatric patients deal with.

4. Everyday, be grateful for the mental, physical and emotional health that you have, as these are the most important things in life.

5. Everyday, be grateful for the upbringing you had (you may not have gotten a new car at 16, but you were not abused, beat down, abandoned, exposed to drugs, pressured into theft, etc)

6. Psychosis DOES NOT equal dumb. Psychotic people have unique talents and skills just like all other humans.

More lessons to be learned...

Stop #5 on My Rotation Tour!

I am now back on some more familiar ground in Des Moines; however, I do miss good old Emmetsburg.

I am completing my fifth rotation at a county hospital, focusing mainly on the psychiatric patients that come in. I am working with a professor from Drake at the site who is phenomenal. Since most students really enjoy the professor and learn a lot from the professor in class and at the site, this particular rotation site becomes highly sought after.

The rotation gets me up early in the morning but keeps me going all day so there is little time to get bored or even look at the clock. Since a Drake faculty member is the preceptor, the rotation is very organized, scheduled and BUSY (with projects, presentations, questions and assisting in teaching a course). No day is the same but I like it that way. I am already learning a lot in just the first few days. The patients not only teach me about their mental illnesses but about life lessons, how to treat others, being nonjudmental and the good in life. I can only imagine how fulfilling this rotation will be in the end!

Congratulations!

Congratulations the newlyweds,

Mr. and Mrs. Hollis!!

I had the honor of being apart of this very special couple's wedding this weekend. The bride I have known since kindergarten and the groom for over 7 years. The ceremony was beautiful and the reception in downtown Chicago was unforgettable. I wish them only the BEST!

Buy A Flu Shot, Get a Blind Date Free!

I was at a pharmacy working and providing flu shots. Over 22 people showed up to get a flu shot. Most patients were older individuals while there were a few young adults.

There was a middle aged man who needed a flu shot. I started talking to the man as I do most patients in order to distract them from the shot I am about to give. We discuss his errands for the day, his grandchildren and my future pharmacy career.

As I finish the shot and the paperwork, the man asks if I am married. Then he asks if I have a boyfriend. I say no to both, as I am traveling too much with school. He then asks if he can have my phone number for his son. He goes on telling me how successful his son is and that he is a great man.

I insist that I will be traveling in Illinois and Iowa for the next few months so things might not work out. The man insists that things would work because his son works in Des Moines but travels to Chicago often and so on. I continue to avoid the blind date by saying I do not live in the area and will be leaving for Des Moines next month. The man says that is perfect as his son lives there and they will be having a birthday party for him next month. The man continues to invite me to the birthday party for his son.

The man tells me he will go get his wife from the car so she can meet me.

I run behind the pharmacy counter in hopes that if they couple cannot find me, they might just forget the whole idea. No luck! The man finds me and asks me to meet his now embarrassed wife.

We all begin small talk about what we do, my last name, my traveling plans, my pharmacy and business education, etc. The couple insists that their son is a great guy. The man gives me his business card and insists that he does not do this to all woman he meets and in fact he has never done this for his son before. The wife says she thinks her husband was crazy for bringing her into the store but now thinks her son and I would get along well. I continually insist that I will just be traveling around to have a relationship. She says she could give the son my name and phone number if I am comfortable with the idea and that we could all mutually meet at the birthday celebration. After trying to avoid this for 30 minutes I give in, the couple leave after I provide them with a name and phone number.

Such persistence to make a date at a flu clinic, of all places?!?!
I could not make up this story even if I had tried!

No, I am not seeking a blind date at the flu clinics!

No, I will NOT be giving out my phone number to be hooked up with your single sons!

You Know You Are On Rotations In a Small Town When...

The following story reminds me that I am on rotations in a small town because this sort of story would never happen anywhere else.

"Billy Joe" walks into Subway during his lunch break to buy one sandwich to eat at the restaurant and one to take to his wife. The cashier recognizes "Billy Joe" as most everyone knows most everyone else in town. "Billy Joe" gets his first sandwich and enjoys it at the restaurant. "Billy Joe" leaves Subway forgetting to take the second sandwich that he ordered for his wife.

The cashier realizes that "Billy Joe" forgot the second sandwich but knows she is too late to catch him as he drives away. She immediately calls "Billy Joe's" place of employment to let him know he forgot his food because of course she knows where he works. The cashier is informed that "Billy Joe" has not made it back to work yet. The cashier then assumes that "Billy Joe" stopped at home because she knows his home is on the way to his work.

Then, the cashier recognizes the next customer, as "Billy Joe's" neighbor. The cashier knows how good of friends the neighbor is with "Billy Joe" and that she can trust this neighbor, so she asks the neighbor to take "Billy Joe" his forgotten sandwich.

As "Billy Joe" is leaving his driveway, his neighbor stops him to give him his forgotten sandwich. Before "Billy Joe" even gets back to work he has the sandwich he was supposed to give to his wife.

NEVER would this story actually play out like this in an urban area. Restaurant workers would never know every customer that walks into the restaurant, nor would they know where their customer's work, nor would they know where their customer's live, nor would they trust other people so much, nor would they put so much effort forth to get a customer something the customer forgot.

ONLY in a small town could you get such service! Emmetsburg is teaching me the importance and benefits of providing others with service that goes above and beyond as I grow as a pharmacy professional.

Who Knew I Could 'Stamp'!

This is the result of my hard work from my first ever, Stamping Class.

During the 2 hour class, I made 5 cards with various colored paper, ink stamps and cutouts. The patterns, colors and ideas were very unique.

It really made me think outside the box, use my fine motor skills and problem solve since my ideas never went as planned. I made a few mistakes but used creative thinking to make the mistakes look intentional.

I do not think I would have ever taken the time to take a class like this anywhere else but in Emmetsburg. Thanks Barb!!

Weirdest College Majors

I thought I had seen all the majors possible...not so. Think about graduating with a major like:

Bowling Industry Management

Winemaking

Sports Ministry

Boilermaking

Golf Course Management

Bakery Science

Comic Book Art

Motorsport Science and Engineering

Master Ranching

Astrobiology

Professional Nanny

Retail Floristry

Fishing Sciences and Management

Sexuality Studies

Wig and Makeup Design

As weird as some of these majors sound, they are all offered at one or more colleges in the US. Just think of how small the competition for a job would be after graduation!

Move Over Pharmacy...Here I Come Radio!

The pharmacy, where I am completing my current rotation, co-sponsor the weekday weather report on the county radio station, KICD, which streams online and on the radio. For that sponsorship, the pharmacy puts on a 60 second radio commercial spot on the radio station. Each month the pharmacy changes the commercial to include a relevant health topic and information about the pharmacy.

This month, my preceptor at the pharmacy asked me to write a commercial spot about avoiding colds and head lice as school starts which also included information about the pharmacy. My preceptor then asked me to record the commercial spot, which I did.

With my tremendous radio voice, I can see it now....I am the next big radio personality! Everyone wanting my autograph, pictures and paying me to hang out with the A list celebrities. I become famous due to my start on the Palo Alto Radio Station!

Or, it was just fun to record a radio commercial. An opportunity I do not think I would ever get again. My debut starts this week and I am not looking for fame just a commercial that does not sound like an amateur attempting radio spots.

The experiences pharmacy rotations expose students to are endless!! THANKS!

What Am I Missing?

Customer: “I’m picking up a prescription for [name].”

Pharmacist: “Okay. Just one moment.”

(I check the for the prescription and can’t find it.)

Pharmacist: “When did you order it?”

Customer: “Well, I saw the doctor on Monday.”

Pharmacist: “So you came in on Monday?”

Customer: “No, I went to the doctor’s on Monday.”

Pharmacist: “Okay, so when did you drop your prescription off?”

Customer: “What do you mean? I went to the doctor.”

Pharmacist: “And did he give you a piece of paper that said what drugs you needed?”

Customer: “Yeah.”

Pharmacist: “That’s a prescription. You need to bring it here so that we know what you need.”

Customer: “But I saw the doctor on Monday! Why didn’t he do it?”

Pharmacist: “That’s not his job.”

Customer: “So what, he’s a doctor but he’s not a pharmacist? Look, I saw him on Monday so he probably just did it then. You’re just not looking hard enough. Look for the things done on Monday!”

Definitions and Learning Points For All

First Amendment:

Freedom of Religion and Expression; Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Expression of Opinion
1. judgment or belief not founded on certainty or proof
2. the prevailing or popular feeling or view: public opinion
3. evaluation, impression, or estimation of the value or worth of a person or thing
4. an evaluation or judgment given by an expert: a medical opinion
5. the advice given by a barrister or counsel on a case submitted to him or her for a view on the legal points involved
6. a matter of opinion a point open to question
7. be of the opinion that to believe that

Uncensored:
(of a publication, film, letter, etc) not having been banned or edited ; unedited; not having had objectionable content removed

Hypocrisy:
the practice of professing standards, beliefs, etc, contrary to one's real character or actual behaviour, esp the pretence of virtue and piety; Hypocrisy involves the deception of others and is thus a kind of lie.

**Take home lesson:

Express your opinions in a respectful way. People may choose to listen or may knock you down. But, continue to stand up for yourself, your beliefs and the good that people can do.

It's Football Night! We Know Where Everyone in Town Will Be!

In Emmetsburg, it seems as though the most important parts of life include sports, especially football. With tonight being a Friday night football game, the ENTIRE town is getting ready for the high school game. There is tailgates, tons of fans in lots of game clothes and hoopla spoken all day about the game.

It reminds me exactly of "Friday Night Lights". The whole town is way too into the local high school sports program but it makes the games fun and brings the community together. Plus it is one of the only things to do on a Friday night in a small town.

When in Rome, do as the Romans....Go E-HAWKS!

Rotation Stop #4...Emmetsburg Iowa!

Where is Emmetsburg???? That what I thought when I found out I was going to this town for a rotation. It is in northwest Iowa, near Lake Okoboji, Algona and only 30 minutes from Minnesota!

I knew I was going to a small town, but how small I did not really know. I know that many people live in small towns throughout the US that may be much smaller than Emmetsburg but I come from a suburb of Chicago so the smallest town I have ever been in for an extended period of time has been about 60,000 residents.


So Emmetsburg is a shock to the system.

*Population: ~5,000 (about 1/3 elderly)
*Only 2 stop lights in the whole town
*Two small food stores in the town
*One very small home goods store (like a Kmart)
*About 8 different antique shops
*Two bars in town
*Lots of old men in overalls or plaid shirts
*More pick up trucks than families
*EVERYONE waves 'hi' to EVERYONE they see. If you do not wave...you are considered a jerk and they know you are from out of town.
*EVERYONE knows everyone's name and personal business
*Most people have lived in the town or near the town most of their life
*No common stores (walmart, starbucks, walgreens, etc.)...but there is one McDonald's

Well there is one really great redeeming factor: Five Island Lake. It is beautiful and I do not have one of these near the town I grew up in, so it is a special piece of the town.
















So, I am not sure what I will do with myself for the next five weeks but I think I will make lots of friends, get into the lake a few times, visit the casino (of all things, this small town has one nearby), find some small town things to do and just catch up on my blogging!

My Hard Work on Rotations!

Independent Pharmcy Vs Chain Pharmacy

How my independent pharmacy experience differs from my chain pharmacy experiences.

*Consistently fully staffed to meet ALL patient needs at an independent pharmacy.
*Specialized products (vet, hormone, child, doses, etc) available at an independent pharmacy.
*Stronger community connection at an independent pharmacy.
*More time to provide information and care at an independent pharmacy.
*Better trusted resource for drug information among physicians and patients at an independent pharmacy.
*Stronger patient/pharmacist relationships with more patients at an independent pharmacy.
*Ability to make own decisions and choices about patient care or business ongoings at an independent pharmacy.
*Stronger focus of patient well being at an independent pharmacy.
*Stronger family and welcoming atmosphere at an independent pharmacy.

-More resources at a chain pharmacy.
-Better employee benefits from a chain pharmacy.
-Stronger name recognition with a chain pharmacy.
-More service options at a chain pharmacy.
-More flexible location placement for employees and more locations for patients at a chain pharmacy.
-More patients to contact at a chain pharmacy.

What NOT to Bring to College

There are more than enough places and people that give you suggestions on what to bring to college, that students could fill an 18 wheel semi-truck if they actually listened to all the advice. So I want to offer some different advice. Too many students bring too many things to college that they do not need, that end up costing too much, going to waste, taking up room or being stolen. So here is my list of what not to bring to college:

1. An expensive stereo, tv, jewelry, heirloom, or lots of money etc...you get the point. Other people are not afraid to snag something if they think it looks nice. Things get ruined easily when your not looking.

2. An extra LARGE tv. In your dorm room, you might end up sleeping on top of it or under your roommates bed if there is no room left.

3. An expensive laptop. A laptop is a very useful tool in college but you will use and abuse it so much that you will eventually need a new one, so do not spend thousands.

4. Cable tv. Nowadays you can watch tv shows streaming online, download entire seasons of your favorite show or easily download a movie/Redbox it for cheap.

5. Lots of decorations. You and your roommate will have to agree on how the room looks and it may not always be exactly what you invision when you bought all your decor.

6. A car. Especially your first year or so. A car just gets in the way, costs more money and will be used by your friends more than you. You can gain a lot of friends this way but for the wrong reasons as they use up all your gas. You really can walk, bike or blade to many more places than you think...plus it is an extra way to keep off the pounds!

7. Lots of shoes, clothes or teddy bears. You will just not have enough room for as much as you kept at your house unless you are moving into your own house on campus.

8. New text books. It is a waste of money to get new books because used books or older editions of the book are exactly the same at half the price. Or you could borrow or buy books from students older than you who would give you a great deal!

9. A printer. Most schools charge you as apart of your tuition to print in the library so take advantage of what you paid for. If they did not charge you, it usually ends up costing less to just print in the library than always getting ink every month after everyone on your hall will use it up.

10. A pet. You have barely enough time to worry about yourself let alone another living thing. You are trying to learn about yourself in college, I promise you will not miss your goldfish too much.

How to Avoid the Freshman 15

It is not always easy to pass up the ice cream bar in the dinning hall when you get to college and could have pizza and ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner. So instead of repeating every other website's advice and common knowledge for healthy lifestyles including "eating nutritiously", "avoiding excessively fatty foods" and "portion control" I would like to offer some other easy to incorporate tips that may help you stay healthy at your new home away from home.

1. Get in some extra steps each day
----Walk to and from class
----Walk around while on the phone with friends and family from home
----Take the stairs rather than the elevator
----Take walks around town with friends to get to know the area
----Walk to anything that is close enough (ex. the store, the post office, the redbox, the bar, etc)
----Use a pedometer if you need an extra incentive

2. Work out once in while
----Find friends that may want to work out with you a few days a week
----Find some fun fitness classes on your campus
----Get someone to teach you a new activity such as racket ball, golf, bowling, etc

3. Join an intramural sport for some extra movement or start a new intramural league with your favorite activity

4. Use a yoga ball as a desk chair (if you have a stable back) for better posture and a tighter midsection

5. Go out dancing on a Friday night before or after the extra beers

6. Plan fun outdoor activities for the weekends such as hiking, bike rides, swimming, boating, etc.

Any other ideas???

Shh...Don't tell the Northsiders

I am a:

WHITE SOX FAN!!

I got to see them last night with the family.

Of course, they WON!!

6-1 against the Twins! So sorry Minnesota, that is what you get for coming to Chicago!

Thanks guys...keep it up, another World Series is around the corner!

Advice From My Preceptor

My preceptor who happens to own the independent pharmacy that I am at right now gave me this advice two days after getting to know me.

*Keep your bubbly personality because it is infectious

*Keep your 'go getter' attitude as it will get you more than you bargain for

*Keep up your passion for learning as you will always have more to learn

*Continue to never rest on your lorals and always seek improvement

*Stay light hearted as work should never get too serious

*Keep your top notch people skills as they will not only help you at work but in life

*Continue to be open, honest and loud as the only wheel that gets fixed is the squeeky wheel!

What a FUN Night!

Thanks to all the girls who joined me last night to celebrate one of my Best Friends last few weeks as a single lady. The bachlorette party was fun, frisky and fabulous thanks to all of the friends and moms that attended or helped out! The pole dancing class was a great workout and novel experience for us all. The gifts and games were funny and scandolous. The bars were outrageous and exciting. You girls rock!

Thanks:

Micaela
Gina
Barb S.

Barb H.

Sarah

Jenna

Ellen

Taylor

Eliza

Jessie

Katie

Rachel

The Bride to Be: Laura!

Our Knights in Shinning Armor: Andrew and Dan

Chesse and Bacon Flavored Medicine

My new rotation is at an independent pharmacy that specializes in compounding medicines. Which means it makes medicines from scratch including syrups, powders, capsules, creams, gels, etc. They use standardized formulas to make different strengths of forms of medicines that may not be made by pharmaceutical companies. It is very unique in that most pharmacies do not have the equipment of know how to compound medicines. The pharmacy makes a lot of medicines for children who cannot take the adult dose medicine, for pets who also cannot usually take drugs that are made for humans and specialty hormone drugs.

Today I got to make bacon and cheese flavored paste for a dog in order to prevent the dog from having a seizure. I never would have thought I would ever make a bacon and cheese tasting medicine...let alone any medicine for a dog! I also got to see the pharmacist make hormone lozenges for women going through menopause in order to prevent hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. It is like working in a laboratory making weird concoctions for people to use! HOW FUN!!

Stop #3 On my Year Long Adventure!

I have left the internal medicine clinic in Des Moines, IA and am now in Mt. Prospect, IL ready to start working at an independent pharmacy. It is nice to be in my hometown where I will be with family and friends for the next five weeks. A crazy five weeks at that as I have something going on each weekend with a full work week in between! Bridal showers, birthday parties, bachlorette parties, annual blueberry pick and so much more!

I am nervous for my first day tomorrow as I have and will be for the start of every rotation. I am the new kid on the block who does not know the ropes yet. I am excited to jump in and know that once tomorrow begins I will be on a speeding train to the end of August. Wish me luck!

Insomnia...Do We all Suffer at Some Point?

Today I gave a presentation to four physicians and one pharmacist about insomnia and sleep medications. I think it was well received. I talked about the 'non medical' ways to improve sleep, the over the counter drugs people use and the the prescription medications for sleep problems.

There are a LOT of drugs out there used for sleep problems that people use all the time. The funny thing is that most of the medications work by changing the way people sleep and not always .in a good way The medications increase sleep but not necessarily the restorative type of sleep that is the best for people. The drugs increase the 'light sleep' which is why people have weird dreams or may even sleepwalk, sleepdrive, etc while on these meds because their bodies are still "up". Plus most meds should be maxed out at 2 weeks. Many times people start the sleep meds and do not get sleep without them or never learn how to get good restorative sleep. I do not truly believe that sleep medications are the best but instead believe that the placebo effect they provide is what really makes them great.

The ironic thing with all this is that I myself get poor sleep and wish there was some magic potion out there that could help. Well I may just have to invent one....or just work harder at good sleep hygiene (but that takes too much work....darn)!

College Truth or Myth

Myth: My teen can make a good living without a college education.
Reality: There is no doubt that some people have done well without a college degree. However, a college graduate will earn on average about a million dollars more than a high school graduate in his/her lifetime. For most people, college pays.

Myth - I need to decide on my career before I can choose a college.
College is your time to explore. Except in a few specific situations, you can choose a major in your sophomore year and still complete the degree in four years. A surprising number of students discover their ideal field while taking a course they didn’t expect to like. If you're not ready, don’t let well-meaning friends pressure you into deciding on a major field or a career before you choose a college. Take your time.

Myth: Anyone can get into a public university, but it’s hard to get into a private college.
Reality: Some public universities are among the most competitive to get into, while other public universities are required to take nearly all applicants. It’s true that some private colleges are very selective, but others take students who wouldn’t even be admitted to a home state public university. Check with the colleges you are considering to learn more about the average academic credentials of its students and its admission policies.


Myth - If I haven’t heard of a college or university, it can’t be very good.
You may not hear about many of the nation’s finest colleges until you are well into your adult life. Athletics on television is how most colleges get to be known, but many great colleges do not get that kind of exposure. Some of the nation's finest colleges don’t play big-time athletics. Judge a college on its own merits. Don’t let name recognition determine a good or bad college.

Myth: The college with the lowest price will be the most affordable.
Reality: Not necessarily! Some of the colleges with a high “sticker price” have raised significant amounts of money for scholarships from their graduates and friends. As a result, they have more money to give to students in the form of scholarships, which reduces the “sticker price.” After taking financial aid into consideration, a seemingly more expensive college may be more affordable than a college with a lower list price. Tip: Find out what kinds of scholarship options are available at the colleges you are considering.

Myth: There isn’t a lot of financial aid available, and what is available only goes to a few of the very best students.
Reality: During the 2002-03 academic year, more than $105 billion dollars in financial aid was awarded. The vast majority of this money was doled out by the federal government through grant, loan and work-study programs, while colleges’ own grants and scholarships accounted for almost 20 percent of all financial aid. States helped too by contributing more than $5.5 billion to the pot. That’s a lot of money for a lot of students. In fact, more than 70 percent of students nationally receive some kind of financial aid.

Summer in Des Moines

Iowa Cubs:

Downtown Farmer's Market:

Des Moines Arts Festival:

Movies in the Park:

Fireworks on the Fourth:

80/35 Music Festival:

Graduating to Be a Monkey

Funny stories not only happen to me when I am working at the pharmacy but also when I am visiting the pharmacy as a patient. For example last night as I waited in line to pick up my prescriptions I overheard the patient in front of me:


Customer: “Why isn’t my prescription ready yet?”

Pharmacist: “We are trying to get in contact with your doctor because of a problem with the prescription. You’re profile says you’re allergic to penicillin. Is that correct?”

Customer: “Oh yeah, that stuff is real bad for me!”

Pharmacist: “The medication your doctor prescribed has penicillin in it, so we’re trying to get a hold of him to find out what he wants you to take.”

Customer: “Oh, well, he wants me to take the penicillin. That’s what he wrote down, right?”

Pharmacist: “Yes, but you said you were allergic to it.”

Customer: “But he’s a doctor, so he knows what’s best. If that’s what he wrote, then just give me that.”

Pharmacist: “Well, we’ll check with him first to make sure that it’s safe for you.”

Customer: “Of course it’s safe for me or the doctor wouldn’t have prescribed it!"

The customer turns away angry. As he walks away he tells me: "Those damn pharmacists. All they got to do is count pills like a monkey but instead they just make life harder."

Obviously the customer had no idea I was going to school to study to be a Monkey (Pharmacist)!

Why A Pharmacy Career Can Be Rewarding

Some of my experiences at the clinic that remind me why I chose a health care profession.

1. Helping an older women understand how to use her diabetes meter after two other individuals tried but could not help

2. Realize and administer a pneumonia vaccine to a patient at high risk for getting the infection

3. Train a patient in self administration of insulin while helping the patient get over the fear of injections and stigma of diabetes

4. Finding cheaper alternative medications for elderly patients on a tight budget

5. Realizing that a patient's blood thinning medication dose was too low and requesting the physician change it accordingly

6. Find the only pharmacy in town that had the diabetic supplies that make a patient feel comfortable with themselves

Horoscopes...Believe it or Not?

My horoscope (scorpio) for the month of July:

"Flowers. Poems. Songs. Love songs. Chocolate souffle. Oysters. Oh my! It looks like the 1st and 2nd are going to be pretty romantic days for you! Enjoy this flurry of lovey-dovey activity."

Wrong so far. No relationship, no love, no flowers, not even any lovey-dovey activity.

"The 5th, 6th and 7th, on the other hand, are going to be days devoted to figuring out the nuts and bolts of the relationship. Compromise, compatibility, goals: You'll have to go over all these, and more. Be sure to be honest."

Still wrong, considering I did not have that relationship in the first week. So I still do not have any lovey-dovey activity to figure out or be honest with.

"Work is taking top priority on the 12th and 13th. Give it your full attention. A piece of really good career-related news comes your way on the 18th and 19th. Just in time! But do you think it might be time to step off this work-related roller coaster? Can you think of any way to change things fundamentally in the future?"

Work probably will be a priority in these weeks because my rotation will be wrapping up and I will have two presentations associated with that. I thought I would not have homework after I finished school but that is not true as I have presentations to take care of. I hope my future "changes Fundamentally" for the better!

"Make a deal and sign all the paperwork on the 24th. By the 29th, you're ready to tap your hidden talents."

I hope it is a really good deal! Like a job, or a lottery winner or a free car!

"End the month with a really good workout on the 31st. Physical exercise is just the ticket for working off frustration and getting into a really good space, physically and mentally."

This will be true as I celebrate at a bachelorette party with my friends and bride to be best friend!

Ambulatory Care: Internal Medicine Rotation

So my first week at the internal medicine clinic has flown by. It felt weird to return to Des Moines because it did not feel like home. After the first week, I am back into things here.

I have started my ambulatory care rotation at a physician's clinic in Des Moines with a pharmacist, one of the Drake faculty members. Ambulatory care means that the site has to focus on outpatient service. So at this rotation site I help the staff pharmacist monitor, assess and modify patients' warfarin therapy. Warfarin is a potent anti-coagulant, a medicine that thins blood. Many people have to be on it if they have underlying heart valve problems, history of clots or problems with circulation. The medication is very effective but it has to be kept in a certain range so that the blood is not too thin or too thick, hence the aggressive monitoring. Some patients come in every two weeks while others once a month. The pharmacist and now me are in charge of following these patients and their progress.

Also at the clinic I work with the physicians and most of their diabetic patients. I will review a patient's history, complaints and glucose readings before they come in for appointments and discuss with the physician what I think the patient may need help with. With these patients I also provide them with diabetes education including how to use glucose meters, what glucose numbers mean, how to take their medications and non medication strategies to help improve their life.

I really enjoy the clinic because I get to talk to patients throughout the day. I get time to talk to the patient and the physicians and make choices that can help improve people's lives. I feel like I am making a difference even if it is small.

"Wicked" was Wicked!

While in St. Louis I got to see the musical Wicked with my sister. It was an outstanding performance with great music and a wonderful cast. It was my first time seeing it and I thought it was easily one of the better musicals I had ever seen. I also got to see it in one of the most beautiful theatres, the Fox Theatre, in St. Louis. It is a very old theatre that has been renovated and now looks like a million bucks. Thanks for the great show!

One of the Coolest Experiences Ever (Cont.)

For all of you that could not keep your pants on long enough to find out the rest of the story. Here is "The Rest Of the Story"

Patient Brunno came into the hospital for a routine cardiology catheter exam which is similar to an x-rays in motion that show the anatomy and flow of major arteries and veins including the coronary arteries (the hearts source of blood and energy). Patient Brunno needed two heart valves replaced so was getting the scans done in order to see what needed to be done for surgery.

Patient Brunno looked healthy and happy before the scan. The patient was put into conscience sedation (the patient will not remember the events but is awake enough to follow commands). The incisions in the leg are made to put the catheter and dye into the arteries so the scans can be made. Some of the pictures (xrays in motion) are taken. The rotation student asks why the images have a small bleep in the arteries. The cardiologist looks at the images and cannot understand what is going on. He asks two other cardiologists for their opinions. The surgeons then decide that the women's arteries have a tare in them and it is getting worse (like a tare in pantie hose that gets worse and worse).

Patient Brunno was supposed to have two heart valves replaced the next day but in this condition would never survive the surgery. The cardiologist decides he has to keep the arteries open as best as possible. The cardiologist gets other specialists opinions on the matter. Wires and stents are started to be placed to keep the arteries open so the heart will not die. The patient begins to deteriorate. The patient goes into Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart beat) 4 different times and needs to be shocked back. The entire time the patient is still awake and in excruciating pain due to the screaming and attempts to unhook all the monitors and drugs. The room fills with nurses, technicians and doctors as they try to keep the patient calm and finish up the stent placement.

Multiple doctors comment that the patient will die if the stents are not placed but the patient will die if they try to perform the valve replacements. "If she survives this, it will be a miracle" is repeated a few times by the chief of surgery as he watches in grief while ordering one of the operations rooms to be prepared just in case. One hour later the anesthesiologist shows up and is able to sedate the patient and place a tube into their lungs to provide mechanical oxygen.

Two hours later all the stents are placed, the patient is stable and the pharmacy rotation student is staring in shock with all the other surgeons and nurses. Patient Brunno is moved to the ICU where the patient is monitored like a hawk. The patient goes into irregular heart beats once again during the night and is shocked back bringing the total to 5 shocks.

Five days later the patient is stable and recovering. The patient is scheduled to return home in a few days and undergo surgery in 4-6 weeks.

I was shocked, sad, happy, hopeful, praying, helping and all enthralled in the situation as it was happening. I felt as if I was on a nail biting episode of Grey's Anatomy. The adrenaline was great, as I think I could do that everyday and the story is even better knowing that the patient survived.