My confidence regained

So, I completely digressed. I wanted to talk about how I had regained some confidence for the first time since starting this job.

We had a patient who needed to be transferred to another hospital for a liver transplant. She was very sick. My partner gave me complete ownership of the patient. That meant, I was accountable for the care of the patient and all the other responsibilities that went along with that.

Did I panic? No way. I seriously had an itching need to change my underwear and my flightsuit, though. No really. My brain hurt. Okay, think!!! What could go wrong with this patient and what could I do about it?

1.    Okay, running away is not an option. Scratch that. {brain hurting}
2.     Worst thing is she deteriorates and I'd have to intubate her. Oooh, boy. {nausea setting in}
3.    Blood pressure could be low, her heart stops, I'd have to do CPR. Yes, I can do that. {muscles cramping in anticipation.}
4.    They could have given her medication to get rid of toxin build-up (that causes extremely malodorous diarrhea). Hmm . . . small airplane . . . toxic smell . . . 20-minute ambulance ride to plane, 1.5 hrs flight time to other hospital . . . turbulent weather. . . {running away still not an option}

The call went quite well. My partner, who is also my base manager, was very happy with my performance and I also felt good about how I handled the call. The patient was transported safely. I think I CAN do this job, afterall. I still have a lot to learn and a lot to know, but at least I don't feel completely stupid.

Comments

[Ivonne M]

I love reading your experiences, that was funny! LOL! I love the way you stay so positive!