hehe... I am so totally addicted to this song! Listen to it!
Mouthwash - Kate Nash
This is my face, covered in freckles with an occasional spot and some veins.
This is my body, covered in skin, and not all of it you can see
And, this, is my mind, it goes over and over the same old lines
And, this, is my brain, it's torturous analytical thoughts make me go insane
And I use mouthwash
Sometimes I floss
I got a family
And I drink lots of tea
I've got nostalgic don't know
I've got familar faces
I've got a mixed-up memory
And I've got favourite places
And I'm sitting at home on a Friday night
And I'm sitting at home on a Friday night and I hope everything's going to be alright
This is my face, I've got a thousand opinions and not the time to explain
And this is my body, and no matter how you try and disable it, I'll still be here
And, this, is my mind, and although you try to infringe you cannot confine
And, this, is my brain, and even if you try and hold me back there's nothing
that you can gain
Because I use mouthwash
Sometimes I floss
I got a family
And I drink lots of tea
I've got nostalgic don't know
I've got familar faces
I've got a mixed-up memory
And I've got favourite places
And I'm sitting at home on a Friday night
And I'm sitting at home on a Friday night and I hope everything's going to be alright
Monday, October 08, 2007
Sunday, October 07, 2007
20 minutes Makes A Huge Difference!
I'm back doing my night on calls. It wasn't unusual that I did not manage to nap prior to the start of shift. Despite me trying to sleep later over the past few nights, I would still wake up, the latest by 9 am. I think the thought of starting a night shift just makes me slightly anxious...although you would have assumed that having done it before, I would be able to anticipate how it was going to turn out.
Anyway, slight anxiety, equaled to no sleep at all. The first night is always the most difficult one. It's because the body needs to adjust itself to the different rhythm. My Friday night was quite busy....didn't have a chance to have a break at all. So by the time it was 9.40 am, which was home time, I was feeling really sleepy. I decided to have a really strong cup of coffee....I put about 1 tablespoon of coffee into a mug!! Now, that is VERY STRONG coffee for my standard.
Gulped the whole coffee down, hoping that the caffeine would keep me awake for the drive home. It was more of mind over matter, as I do not get affected by caffeine. The first 15 minute drive was alright...I was yawning every now and then, but my eyes were still very wide awake. However, with only just 10 more minutes to reaching home, my conscious level just dipped.
My eye lids felt like they were tonnes heavy! I was struggling to keep them open. I started to play the music really loud, slapped my cheeks, and started to munch on a gum. Boy...I was glad to reach home safely. It was very dangerous driving!!!
During my night shift last night, I managed to squeeze in about 20 minutes nap...and it really made a big difference. I was WIDE AWAKE while driving home. But how often do you actually get a chance to nap during a night on call....Rarely.
There is certainly no doubt that sheer tiredness while driving can kill!!! Well, my heart goes to anyone that works very long hours/night shifts.....I totally understand how sleepy you feel after work.
Anyway, slight anxiety, equaled to no sleep at all. The first night is always the most difficult one. It's because the body needs to adjust itself to the different rhythm. My Friday night was quite busy....didn't have a chance to have a break at all. So by the time it was 9.40 am, which was home time, I was feeling really sleepy. I decided to have a really strong cup of coffee....I put about 1 tablespoon of coffee into a mug!! Now, that is VERY STRONG coffee for my standard.
Gulped the whole coffee down, hoping that the caffeine would keep me awake for the drive home. It was more of mind over matter, as I do not get affected by caffeine. The first 15 minute drive was alright...I was yawning every now and then, but my eyes were still very wide awake. However, with only just 10 more minutes to reaching home, my conscious level just dipped.
My eye lids felt like they were tonnes heavy! I was struggling to keep them open. I started to play the music really loud, slapped my cheeks, and started to munch on a gum. Boy...I was glad to reach home safely. It was very dangerous driving!!!
During my night shift last night, I managed to squeeze in about 20 minutes nap...and it really made a big difference. I was WIDE AWAKE while driving home. But how often do you actually get a chance to nap during a night on call....Rarely.
There is certainly no doubt that sheer tiredness while driving can kill!!! Well, my heart goes to anyone that works very long hours/night shifts.....I totally understand how sleepy you feel after work.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
I'm Saved!!!
With reference to my previous blog, thank god I was saved.
The rash turned out to be seborrhoeic dermatitis. *phew
The rash turned out to be seborrhoeic dermatitis. *phew
Monday, October 01, 2007
Yikes!
*scratch *scratch *scratch
I'm feeling so itchy now. Help!
Just before I left work, I saw a young boy who presented with a rash. It was a funny rash, which I do not know what to make of it. The rash apparently has been there for a good 5 weeks now. He has been using a steroid cream which has made the rash worse. The boy was otherwise well.
My registrar reviewed the patient, and she too, did not know what was the cause of the rash. So we did a few blood tests, and they were normal. She decided to let the night on-call team review the wee boy as well.
So after informing the night team on call about the case, the first thing that came out from her mouth was, "Its scabies!"
I was like, "Nooo way...I touched him without even wearing gloves." Yikes!!!
She smiled and said the story sounded like it. But reassured me that if I had washed my hands after examining the boy, it should be ok. I wasn't buying it...the worse thing was, before taking the blood sample from him, I was actually carrying him in my arms, because mum did not want to accompany him into the treatment room for the tests.
Oh boy...now I'm feeling itchy all over. I was really paranoid....I washed my hands at least twice before I left the ward, and disinfected my stethoscope too. I really hope its not scabies...I shall get the confirmation tomorrow. And I will keep this blog updated...
Hope I can sleep tonight...*scratch *scratch
I'm feeling so itchy now. Help!
Just before I left work, I saw a young boy who presented with a rash. It was a funny rash, which I do not know what to make of it. The rash apparently has been there for a good 5 weeks now. He has been using a steroid cream which has made the rash worse. The boy was otherwise well.
My registrar reviewed the patient, and she too, did not know what was the cause of the rash. So we did a few blood tests, and they were normal. She decided to let the night on-call team review the wee boy as well.
So after informing the night team on call about the case, the first thing that came out from her mouth was, "Its scabies!"
I was like, "Nooo way...I touched him without even wearing gloves." Yikes!!!
She smiled and said the story sounded like it. But reassured me that if I had washed my hands after examining the boy, it should be ok. I wasn't buying it...the worse thing was, before taking the blood sample from him, I was actually carrying him in my arms, because mum did not want to accompany him into the treatment room for the tests.
Oh boy...now I'm feeling itchy all over. I was really paranoid....I washed my hands at least twice before I left the ward, and disinfected my stethoscope too. I really hope its not scabies...I shall get the confirmation tomorrow. And I will keep this blog updated...
Hope I can sleep tonight...*scratch *scratch
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Body Attack & Balance....Totally Hammered....
I attended 2 fitness classes yesterday. It was a launching day at my local sports centre. Therefore, all the routine in the classes are new. I have always wanted to join one of the fitness classes, but never got myself to do it, because I couldn't get a partner to go along with me. However, I decided that I needed a change from my usual treadmill/cross runner in the gym.
So, my first class - Body Attack. Before the class, I kept wondering what would I be doing in the class. Is it boxing? Is it lifting weights? Is it aerobics? The fitness instructor was a fit and well toned lady. We started off with a tiny jog on the spot, which soon, picked up to lots of jumping, kicking, squats, etc...basically it was high-impact aerobics. I was working every inch of my body.... The music was excellent, fast and catchy. But after 30 minutes of it, I really felt tired. I couldn't really keep up with the pace (despite running on the treadmill for 3 miles at least twice a week!) My cardiovascular system failed me! How disappointing. Then, we started to do push-ups for about 10 minutes...my arms felt like they were going to break halfway through it, and again, I had to slow down. I could literally feel a piercing pain sensation in my arm muscles.
The whole class lasted for a good hour...and by the end of it, I was knackered. My body was hammered by myself! Sweat was pouring out from all my sweat pores. But it felt good. I felt like I really worked my body to the limit. Guess, the name body attack explains it all - Attacking your own body with high impact exercises.
Then, about 10 minutes later, the next class, Body Balance, started. Now this class is all about balance and stretching. It's a mixture of Tai Chi, yoga and pilates. I was quite glad that I attended this class after that muscle tearing experience earlier on. So I was stretching my muscles to relaxation...and at the end of the class, we laid down on the mat in a totally relaxed mood for about 5 minutes....Boy, that felt good! The music that accompanied the class was nicely chosen...very relaxing and nice.
After 2 hours worth of exercise, I was starving. Luckily it was near to dinner time and I met up with my ex-colleagues for dinner at Cafe Andaluz. The Spanish tapas was excellent. After dinner, it was a drinking feast until 3 am! It started off with 2 pitchers of sangria at the tapas bar, followed by, about 3 drinks in another bar...and lastly, we finished off at a bar in town, where we all had a shooter each and another drink! Boy, I was hammered! I felt really sick by the end of the whole night. I just wanted to go home and sleep....which was what we all did.
By the time I got home, it was 3.30 am...I pushed myself to take off my contact lens and changed into my PJs. Oh...and I also made sure I brushed my teeth...because sometimes I really can't be bothered to do that if I'm really really sleepy. =)
This morning, I got up 6 hours later...feeling refreshed and hungry, but with a terrible muscle ache all over.
So, my first class - Body Attack. Before the class, I kept wondering what would I be doing in the class. Is it boxing? Is it lifting weights? Is it aerobics? The fitness instructor was a fit and well toned lady. We started off with a tiny jog on the spot, which soon, picked up to lots of jumping, kicking, squats, etc...basically it was high-impact aerobics. I was working every inch of my body.... The music was excellent, fast and catchy. But after 30 minutes of it, I really felt tired. I couldn't really keep up with the pace (despite running on the treadmill for 3 miles at least twice a week!) My cardiovascular system failed me! How disappointing. Then, we started to do push-ups for about 10 minutes...my arms felt like they were going to break halfway through it, and again, I had to slow down. I could literally feel a piercing pain sensation in my arm muscles.
The whole class lasted for a good hour...and by the end of it, I was knackered. My body was hammered by myself! Sweat was pouring out from all my sweat pores. But it felt good. I felt like I really worked my body to the limit. Guess, the name body attack explains it all - Attacking your own body with high impact exercises.
Then, about 10 minutes later, the next class, Body Balance, started. Now this class is all about balance and stretching. It's a mixture of Tai Chi, yoga and pilates. I was quite glad that I attended this class after that muscle tearing experience earlier on. So I was stretching my muscles to relaxation...and at the end of the class, we laid down on the mat in a totally relaxed mood for about 5 minutes....Boy, that felt good! The music that accompanied the class was nicely chosen...very relaxing and nice.
After 2 hours worth of exercise, I was starving. Luckily it was near to dinner time and I met up with my ex-colleagues for dinner at Cafe Andaluz. The Spanish tapas was excellent. After dinner, it was a drinking feast until 3 am! It started off with 2 pitchers of sangria at the tapas bar, followed by, about 3 drinks in another bar...and lastly, we finished off at a bar in town, where we all had a shooter each and another drink! Boy, I was hammered! I felt really sick by the end of the whole night. I just wanted to go home and sleep....which was what we all did.
By the time I got home, it was 3.30 am...I pushed myself to take off my contact lens and changed into my PJs. Oh...and I also made sure I brushed my teeth...because sometimes I really can't be bothered to do that if I'm really really sleepy. =)
This morning, I got up 6 hours later...feeling refreshed and hungry, but with a terrible muscle ache all over.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Bad Bad Traffic....
This traffic is doing my head in. On the way to work this am, I was stuck in traffic for about 1 hour. I left work today at 4pm, happily thinking that it is way ahead of the rush hour of 5 pm and I would be able to escape the evening traffic.
Yeah Right!
I got home about 6.15 pm. That was like 2 hours and 15 minutes in the BLOODY TRAFFIC!!!!
The M8 was stuck....so stuck. uurrghh... for what reason? I do not know.
In that 2 hours, I managed to read a thin magazine and listen to a full CD! I could also see the traffic getting the better of me. I started to curse at any car that disrupted my journey...hehehe.
You know, I did wonder why does this traffic bother me so much. I was born and bred in KL...traffic there was never good. Traffic jam is a culture in KL...I remember getting stuck on the Kesas highway from Sunway to my home for probably 2 hours too...I should be used to this. But surprise, surprise...I was rather frustrated.
By the time I got home, my foot was aching, and I decided to give up my original plan of cooking dinner. Instead, I went to the shop, bought a huge cheeeesssyy bun and gobbled it down, with a cup of tea.
Urggh....can't cope with this traffic! TGIF, tomorrow! Really can't be bothered with this!
Yeah Right!
I got home about 6.15 pm. That was like 2 hours and 15 minutes in the BLOODY TRAFFIC!!!!
The M8 was stuck....so stuck. uurrghh... for what reason? I do not know.
In that 2 hours, I managed to read a thin magazine and listen to a full CD! I could also see the traffic getting the better of me. I started to curse at any car that disrupted my journey...hehehe.
You know, I did wonder why does this traffic bother me so much. I was born and bred in KL...traffic there was never good. Traffic jam is a culture in KL...I remember getting stuck on the Kesas highway from Sunway to my home for probably 2 hours too...I should be used to this. But surprise, surprise...I was rather frustrated.
By the time I got home, my foot was aching, and I decided to give up my original plan of cooking dinner. Instead, I went to the shop, bought a huge cheeeesssyy bun and gobbled it down, with a cup of tea.
Urggh....can't cope with this traffic! TGIF, tomorrow! Really can't be bothered with this!
This Traffic!!
Had the joys of driving to work on Monday. Road was empty as expected....which of course is good, ie, no traffic stress.
Then, the horror started on Tuesday! Oh my goodness! The traffic was extremely heavy, despite me leaving about 5 minutes earlier than normal. By the time I got onto the M8, it was 8.15 am. Normally, I would enter the M8 just about 8 am. The traffic on the M8 wasn't too bad, however, the moment I drove into the junction leading toward my workplace, the traffic was in a standstill. There were diversions that just started on that day...but you know, I did not expect it to be THAT bad. Anyway, I was inching 1 cm every 1 minute. The sun was so bright and it was shining right into my eyes, because, firstly, I am short (so I can't shield my eyes away by using that flap thing on the roof), and secondly, I forgot to bring my sunglasses from home. So I could not even visualise the road properly and I could my road rage building up!!
To add to the stress, I had to do a presentation that morning. And I was still stuck in the bloody traffic at 9 am. My presentation was to begin about 15 mins past 9 am. Urgghh!! Eventually, after loads of cursing and singing (yes..thank god for the "Nineties" CD that I bought a few weeks ago...had my fav songs like Bfast at Tiffany's etc...), I arrived at work 9.25 am!
*phew
I wasn't the only one late...lots of others were later than me. Luckily, the consultant that was waiting for the presentation was cool that we were late.
Anyway, here I go again to brave the traffic. Yesterday's traffic was just a tiny bit better, but that's also because I left early...like REALLY early. So me leaving now again...this traffic is killing me slowly...and the diversion is for a good 8 days!! urrggh!!
Then, the horror started on Tuesday! Oh my goodness! The traffic was extremely heavy, despite me leaving about 5 minutes earlier than normal. By the time I got onto the M8, it was 8.15 am. Normally, I would enter the M8 just about 8 am. The traffic on the M8 wasn't too bad, however, the moment I drove into the junction leading toward my workplace, the traffic was in a standstill. There were diversions that just started on that day...but you know, I did not expect it to be THAT bad. Anyway, I was inching 1 cm every 1 minute. The sun was so bright and it was shining right into my eyes, because, firstly, I am short (so I can't shield my eyes away by using that flap thing on the roof), and secondly, I forgot to bring my sunglasses from home. So I could not even visualise the road properly and I could my road rage building up!!
To add to the stress, I had to do a presentation that morning. And I was still stuck in the bloody traffic at 9 am. My presentation was to begin about 15 mins past 9 am. Urgghh!! Eventually, after loads of cursing and singing (yes..thank god for the "Nineties" CD that I bought a few weeks ago...had my fav songs like Bfast at Tiffany's etc...), I arrived at work 9.25 am!
*phew
I wasn't the only one late...lots of others were later than me. Luckily, the consultant that was waiting for the presentation was cool that we were late.
Anyway, here I go again to brave the traffic. Yesterday's traffic was just a tiny bit better, but that's also because I left early...like REALLY early. So me leaving now again...this traffic is killing me slowly...and the diversion is for a good 8 days!! urrggh!!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Weekend Comes, Weekend Goes
While most Brits get a long weekend because of the September Weekend, my weekend was just the usual, started Friday evening and ended Sunday night. Most people here would get Monday off, but if you're a teacher, you'll get Thursday and Friday off too.
I drove to work as usual on Friday, and was VERY surprised to find the road extremely empty. I mean, I did expect the traffic to be less busy, but the motorway was DEAD! So despite leaving my home 10 minutes later than normal, I arrived at work by 8.30 am. Too early.
Anyway, this weekend I turned into a chef, cleaner and holiday booker.
1. Chef
I was dreaming of the wan ton soup back home.... could still remember the tasty wanton soup that I drank accompanied by a big plate of wan tan mee....yum yum. So, I came up with a master plan...marinated my mince pork and wrapped them up with ready made wantan pastries. I took these wan tans over to my friends' place and made the soup there. The soup wasn't sweet enough, but guess it was ok....or rather, edible! Hands up that I'm not a chef.
2. Cleaner
My room was in an awful mess. Everyday, I would leave bits of paper on the table and leave dirty clothes on the floor. As expected, small bits of paper accumulated and soon, every part of my table was covered with papers, envelopes, letters and books. It got to the stage where I couldn't even find my Rail Card, which I recalled was left on the table a few days ago. So, after dumping a good amount of rubbish and putting things back to place, my table was reasonably empty. Helen, my housemate, even commented that, "Ahh....finally, I could see the wood of your table!"
3. Holiday booker
I was also trying to sort out my holiday. Me planning to go to Germany in October, but I still haven't book any flights yet. With only about 3 weeks to go before my holiday, I started to search for budget flights and accommodation. Still haven't book any yet...because I've got my kiasu cap on, so much so that I kept searching for better bargains.
Having played different roles over the weekend, its back to work for me tomorrow. The motorway will still be very DEAD, so I'll leave for work later. Right, off to bed I go! Nite nite!
I drove to work as usual on Friday, and was VERY surprised to find the road extremely empty. I mean, I did expect the traffic to be less busy, but the motorway was DEAD! So despite leaving my home 10 minutes later than normal, I arrived at work by 8.30 am. Too early.
Anyway, this weekend I turned into a chef, cleaner and holiday booker.
1. Chef
I was dreaming of the wan ton soup back home.... could still remember the tasty wanton soup that I drank accompanied by a big plate of wan tan mee....yum yum. So, I came up with a master plan...marinated my mince pork and wrapped them up with ready made wantan pastries. I took these wan tans over to my friends' place and made the soup there. The soup wasn't sweet enough, but guess it was ok....or rather, edible! Hands up that I'm not a chef.
2. Cleaner
My room was in an awful mess. Everyday, I would leave bits of paper on the table and leave dirty clothes on the floor. As expected, small bits of paper accumulated and soon, every part of my table was covered with papers, envelopes, letters and books. It got to the stage where I couldn't even find my Rail Card, which I recalled was left on the table a few days ago. So, after dumping a good amount of rubbish and putting things back to place, my table was reasonably empty. Helen, my housemate, even commented that, "Ahh....finally, I could see the wood of your table!"
3. Holiday booker
I was also trying to sort out my holiday. Me planning to go to Germany in October, but I still haven't book any flights yet. With only about 3 weeks to go before my holiday, I started to search for budget flights and accommodation. Still haven't book any yet...because I've got my kiasu cap on, so much so that I kept searching for better bargains.
Having played different roles over the weekend, its back to work for me tomorrow. The motorway will still be very DEAD, so I'll leave for work later. Right, off to bed I go! Nite nite!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
What is in the mind?
I wonder....
What would drive a young boy less than 15 yrs to commit suicide? He did it with serious intentions to take his life away. He nearly lost his life.
It is such a shame for such things to happen. I soon found out that it was the anxiety to go to school that drove him to do that...he wasn't being bullied in school either. I really wonder what is going on in his mind.
I remember when I was younger (years ago), the thought of going to school made me happy. I do not suffer from the blues of going back to school after the holidays. In fact, I was really excited and started to pack my school bag before the holidays ended.
Anyway, guess everyone is different...I hope the poor boy gets proper help.
What would drive a young boy less than 15 yrs to commit suicide? He did it with serious intentions to take his life away. He nearly lost his life.
It is such a shame for such things to happen. I soon found out that it was the anxiety to go to school that drove him to do that...he wasn't being bullied in school either. I really wonder what is going on in his mind.
I remember when I was younger (years ago), the thought of going to school made me happy. I do not suffer from the blues of going back to school after the holidays. In fact, I was really excited and started to pack my school bag before the holidays ended.
Anyway, guess everyone is different...I hope the poor boy gets proper help.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Food Feast
It was all about food this weekend!
Saturday started off with lunch at Cafe Andaluz, a popular Spanish tapas bar. Then, for dinner, I went over to SzeLeng's and HoonYing's flat for a nice meal. It was a gathering for all of us that are currently working in UK. I met a few friends whom I have not seen for quite awhile. It was really nice to catch up with them. It was something like a potluck dinner. There were nasi lemak, pakora, roasted duck and pork, alcohol and lots of snacks. :)
Sunday kicked off with a big meal at Loong Fung, a chinese restaurant that serves dim sum. The dim sum was not bad. In the evening, we all had tea at Tchainova, an interesting tea fusion shop. We ordered quite a few desserts there...and boy, they were good!
Now that I had a good weekend, I'm dreading to go back to work again, sigh, I'm on call tomorrow....so sien. My monday blues began this morning, in fact. *yawn
The group of us at dinner.
L-R: SzeLeng, HoonYing and me.
Saturday started off with lunch at Cafe Andaluz, a popular Spanish tapas bar. Then, for dinner, I went over to SzeLeng's and HoonYing's flat for a nice meal. It was a gathering for all of us that are currently working in UK. I met a few friends whom I have not seen for quite awhile. It was really nice to catch up with them. It was something like a potluck dinner. There were nasi lemak, pakora, roasted duck and pork, alcohol and lots of snacks. :)
Sunday kicked off with a big meal at Loong Fung, a chinese restaurant that serves dim sum. The dim sum was not bad. In the evening, we all had tea at Tchainova, an interesting tea fusion shop. We ordered quite a few desserts there...and boy, they were good!
Now that I had a good weekend, I'm dreading to go back to work again, sigh, I'm on call tomorrow....so sien. My monday blues began this morning, in fact. *yawn
The group of us at dinner.
L-R: SzeLeng, HoonYing and me.Saturday, September 15, 2007
Learning The ABCs
*phew
What a long week it has been. I was undergoing training for the past week, learning how to perform a few practical procedures (chest drains, central lines) and also learning about common paediatric illness and paeds basic life support.
Then, followed by 2 days of Advanced Life Support course. Boy, this was really hectic. The day began at about 8 am and ended just about 7 pm. It was really long...and we had to learn to be the team leader in the event of a cardiac arrest, therefore, we acted out a good few scenarios. It was all really good...the trainers were approachable and good at teaching. So it was back to the basics of learning the ABCs, and also DEFG....plus, a few other stuff....
At the end of the course, we had to sit for a MCQ paper and perform in a scenario. I have to admit that I was pretty stressed about the whole thing....because during the scenario, I have to give commands to my fellow cardiac arrest team members who were consultants in A & E and anaesthesia. It felt strange. I am only a doctor with 1 year of experience. I felt tiny.
Anyway, glad that I passed the whole thing, and now I am a fully certified in ALS. So bring it on! Give me any situation, I should be able to handle it, no problem. *yeah right. Things are different when you are actually in a proper case. Everything will be chaotic. Although I have been in many arrest, I was always the person who tries to get IV access and obtain ABG. But guess now that I am slightly more senior than a JHO, I have more responsibility, and am expected to lead the cardiac arrest team. *yikes! scary.
What a long week it has been. I was undergoing training for the past week, learning how to perform a few practical procedures (chest drains, central lines) and also learning about common paediatric illness and paeds basic life support.
Then, followed by 2 days of Advanced Life Support course. Boy, this was really hectic. The day began at about 8 am and ended just about 7 pm. It was really long...and we had to learn to be the team leader in the event of a cardiac arrest, therefore, we acted out a good few scenarios. It was all really good...the trainers were approachable and good at teaching. So it was back to the basics of learning the ABCs, and also DEFG....plus, a few other stuff....
At the end of the course, we had to sit for a MCQ paper and perform in a scenario. I have to admit that I was pretty stressed about the whole thing....because during the scenario, I have to give commands to my fellow cardiac arrest team members who were consultants in A & E and anaesthesia. It felt strange. I am only a doctor with 1 year of experience. I felt tiny.
Anyway, glad that I passed the whole thing, and now I am a fully certified in ALS. So bring it on! Give me any situation, I should be able to handle it, no problem. *yeah right. Things are different when you are actually in a proper case. Everything will be chaotic. Although I have been in many arrest, I was always the person who tries to get IV access and obtain ABG. But guess now that I am slightly more senior than a JHO, I have more responsibility, and am expected to lead the cardiac arrest team. *yikes! scary.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Work and Kiddies
Saturday was rather busy at work. Sunday was alright. I managed to get home by 10 pm last night, had maggi mee with egg, was waiting for my turn to shower, as my housemate was using it......the next I remember was waking up at 5 am, with working clothes on, towel draped over my body (as though it was my duvet), contact lens stuck in the eyes, and a full bladder that needs emptying almost immediately.
haha...the joys of my life. How interesting.
Anyway, I've decided that paediatrics is actually not too bad...but, I think I will get really "kang kor" when I see sick children, or see wonderful parents looking after their sick child. I felt so sorry on Sunday when I asked a Mum whether both she and Dad were in good health. She informed me that Dad died last year with a massive MI, while she was pregnany with her 2nd child. =( That is really really heart wrenching. He was a very young man in his 30s.
In another case, I felt really sorry to inform the parents that their wee daughter, nearing the age of 2, has insulin dependent diabetes. I knew that they were prepared for the news, but I could still see the devastating look in their faces. Imagine, she's only 2, having to have 3-4 times finger prick to check her BM, having to inject herself with insulin....and all these, for the rest of her life. And don't get me started on the potential complications, DKAs and hypos..etc..
I don't know. Poor children. I really salute to parents who take every effort to look after their disabled child...you guys are fantastic. You know, sometimes, looking back at the months when I was doing adult medicine, grown ups are such big moaners. Kiddies....they are so innocent and naive. I was speaking to a boy with severe asthma over the weekend...he was telling me about his playstation, wii, gameboy and ipod, while working really hard to breathe. And when I asked him how he was doing, the answer was, "I'm doing fine." But you could see his muscles contracting and hear his wheeze. Its amazing how kids are so oblivious of how ill they are. Adults just moans and moans.
ok...that's my rant for the day.
haha...the joys of my life. How interesting.
Anyway, I've decided that paediatrics is actually not too bad...but, I think I will get really "kang kor" when I see sick children, or see wonderful parents looking after their sick child. I felt so sorry on Sunday when I asked a Mum whether both she and Dad were in good health. She informed me that Dad died last year with a massive MI, while she was pregnany with her 2nd child. =( That is really really heart wrenching. He was a very young man in his 30s.
In another case, I felt really sorry to inform the parents that their wee daughter, nearing the age of 2, has insulin dependent diabetes. I knew that they were prepared for the news, but I could still see the devastating look in their faces. Imagine, she's only 2, having to have 3-4 times finger prick to check her BM, having to inject herself with insulin....and all these, for the rest of her life. And don't get me started on the potential complications, DKAs and hypos..etc..
I don't know. Poor children. I really salute to parents who take every effort to look after their disabled child...you guys are fantastic. You know, sometimes, looking back at the months when I was doing adult medicine, grown ups are such big moaners. Kiddies....they are so innocent and naive. I was speaking to a boy with severe asthma over the weekend...he was telling me about his playstation, wii, gameboy and ipod, while working really hard to breathe. And when I asked him how he was doing, the answer was, "I'm doing fine." But you could see his muscles contracting and hear his wheeze. Its amazing how kids are so oblivious of how ill they are. Adults just moans and moans.
ok...that's my rant for the day.
Saturday, September 08, 2007
>:-|
The past few days of on call have been exceptionally busy!
On Wednesday, the paediatric receiving ward was so full. Almost every15 minutes, my registrar's bleep kept going off. And nearly every 15 minutes, a new patient walked into the ward. I started at 9 am...by 9pm, both my registrar and me have seen about 20 new patients! Madness! I hate it when they all come in at one time. It makes everything confusing and the nurses become clumsy too.
On Thursday, it was busy too, but at least the patients arrival were well spaced...at least 2 an hour or something. Then yesterday....oh my goodness....it was awful! Again my senior's page did not stop bleeping. There was constant flow of patients into the ward...and so, by 10pm, we have seen about 26 patients, and there were 5 still waiting. Parents were getting restless and so were their sick child.
To make matters worse, the nurses in the general paeds ward were not trained to prepare intravenous drugs. So who has to do them? Me. Yeap...so at 10.30 pm yesterday, I was trying to work out how to prepare an aminophylline infusion for a boy with asthma. It wasn't difficult at all, but after having such a busy day, my eyes had became very blurry and brain was working slower. I had to read the instructions multiple times before finally understanding the method of preparing the drug.
I am really not looking forward to this weekend, as again, I am on call. Hope it won't be as bad as the past few days! I really have lost the will to live the past few days. Its off to work I go now.
On Wednesday, the paediatric receiving ward was so full. Almost every15 minutes, my registrar's bleep kept going off. And nearly every 15 minutes, a new patient walked into the ward. I started at 9 am...by 9pm, both my registrar and me have seen about 20 new patients! Madness! I hate it when they all come in at one time. It makes everything confusing and the nurses become clumsy too.
On Thursday, it was busy too, but at least the patients arrival were well spaced...at least 2 an hour or something. Then yesterday....oh my goodness....it was awful! Again my senior's page did not stop bleeping. There was constant flow of patients into the ward...and so, by 10pm, we have seen about 26 patients, and there were 5 still waiting. Parents were getting restless and so were their sick child.
To make matters worse, the nurses in the general paeds ward were not trained to prepare intravenous drugs. So who has to do them? Me. Yeap...so at 10.30 pm yesterday, I was trying to work out how to prepare an aminophylline infusion for a boy with asthma. It wasn't difficult at all, but after having such a busy day, my eyes had became very blurry and brain was working slower. I had to read the instructions multiple times before finally understanding the method of preparing the drug.
I am really not looking forward to this weekend, as again, I am on call. Hope it won't be as bad as the past few days! I really have lost the will to live the past few days. Its off to work I go now.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Swinging Back into Rhythm
It was back to work for me today after a good 10 days off. I woke up at 5 am today, which is bloody early!! Guess I was "excited" to go back to work. But I think the excitement came from the fact that I could finally drive myself to work for the first time! =D
Since I got up so early, I decided to wash my bedsheets...at 5.30 am?!! (don't ask me why) Weird! I know. I know. I have no idea what sparked me to do that...but I just did. The rest of the time was spent reading the news on the net and getting ready. I began my journey early...about 15 mins before 8 am. I was worried that I would get lost. But I found my way no problem. The traffic was just the usual - crowded.
It wasn't too bad going back to work. I had the joys of being the phlebotomist for the day. I bled about 4 -5 children today. The rest of the afternoon was spent completing my discharges, which were piling up in my pigeon hole. Although it wasn't particularly busy, I found it hard to get into the rhythm...I was confused...I kept thinking that it was Monday.
And yes, I drove myself home, which was really enjoyable. I was home in just 30 minutes...no more walking to the train station, no more waiting for the train....ahh....this is life man!
Since I got up so early, I decided to wash my bedsheets...at 5.30 am?!! (don't ask me why) Weird! I know. I know. I have no idea what sparked me to do that...but I just did. The rest of the time was spent reading the news on the net and getting ready. I began my journey early...about 15 mins before 8 am. I was worried that I would get lost. But I found my way no problem. The traffic was just the usual - crowded.
It wasn't too bad going back to work. I had the joys of being the phlebotomist for the day. I bled about 4 -5 children today. The rest of the afternoon was spent completing my discharges, which were piling up in my pigeon hole. Although it wasn't particularly busy, I found it hard to get into the rhythm...I was confused...I kept thinking that it was Monday.
And yes, I drove myself home, which was really enjoyable. I was home in just 30 minutes...no more walking to the train station, no more waiting for the train....ahh....this is life man!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
I Loved Marley Too...
Marley, is a labrador retriever, featured in a book, called, "Marley and Me." I read the book in just a few days....it was a true story, about Marley, his master (who is also the author of the book), and his master's family. The story started with the day the author brought Marley home, until the day Marley went up to dog heaven.
Marley's funny character, and naughty behaviours related so much to my dogs....Fifi, Kiki and Pecan. Fifi was given away because I was very young and mum couldn't cope looking after her. Kiki is still with me, while Pecan's care has been taken over by my ex-bf.
I couldn't stop the tears from welling up in my eyes when I read the chapter where Marley needed to be put to sleep because of volvulus. Just by reading the book, I have fallen in love with Marley.
So, if you guys have a chance or the time, I would highly recommend getting your hands on "Marley and Me." I am sure you'll enjoy the book as much as I did.
Marley's funny character, and naughty behaviours related so much to my dogs....Fifi, Kiki and Pecan. Fifi was given away because I was very young and mum couldn't cope looking after her. Kiki is still with me, while Pecan's care has been taken over by my ex-bf.
I couldn't stop the tears from welling up in my eyes when I read the chapter where Marley needed to be put to sleep because of volvulus. Just by reading the book, I have fallen in love with Marley.
So, if you guys have a chance or the time, I would highly recommend getting your hands on "Marley and Me." I am sure you'll enjoy the book as much as I did.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Say Hello to My Peugeot 206 Zest
This is my first car......*drumroll..... a Peugeot 206 Zest 1.1
The car is nice to drive in....there's a CD player (which gives me an excuse to buy CDs!). The downside to it is I am left totally skint! Only after buying this car, I began to realise that my payment does not just stop there. I had to pay for car insurance (this is freaking expensive!), petrol, and road tax (once the one I have is due).
Oh, the car does not have an A/C. But I guess in this country, you'll hardly need to use it because it is cold most of the time anyway. So here is a glimpse of my car!
The car is nice to drive in....there's a CD player (which gives me an excuse to buy CDs!). The downside to it is I am left totally skint! Only after buying this car, I began to realise that my payment does not just stop there. I had to pay for car insurance (this is freaking expensive!), petrol, and road tax (once the one I have is due).
Oh, the car does not have an A/C. But I guess in this country, you'll hardly need to use it because it is cold most of the time anyway. So here is a glimpse of my car!
I've got my car!!
I've got my car! I've got my car!!!
heee heee hee..... =)
Its so nice to finally be able to drive around! So I'll be driving somewhere over the weekend....if the weather is good of course!
I'll post the pic of my car soon! Keep your eyes open!
Going for a wee drive....tata!
heee heee hee..... =)
Its so nice to finally be able to drive around! So I'll be driving somewhere over the weekend....if the weather is good of course!
I'll post the pic of my car soon! Keep your eyes open!
Going for a wee drive....tata!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Can't Wait
I bought my car yesterday.....finally.
Having looked through a few dealers over the weekend, I ended up with a big headache. I didn't know which car to buy...and to be honest, I didn't think I have seen a car that I fancied. Toyota Yaris? Vauxhall Corsa? Peugeot? I couldn't really decide.
On Sunday night, I made a list of the cars I would like to view. The dealers were rather near my place (except for one, the Toyota Bishopbriggs), and I thought I could use a morning walk to get to them. However, Toyota was the only shop that was selling a 1.3 Toyota Yaris, the car which I was looking at. And I really wanted to see and test drive it before making any further decision. Therefore, I decided to take the train to Bishopbriggs first thing on Monday morning, which I did.
I walked through the entire car park at Toyota, in search for that 1.3....but no where to be seen. All I saw was 3-4 1.0's. I was quite disappointed. Then, a car salesman approached me and asked if I needed help. I told him that I was looking for that 1.3...and he said it was sold last week. He offered me another 1.3 Yaris, which apparently, would only arrive this Sunday or the coming Monday. I couldn't wait that long. He also offered a few 1.0 Yaris. In fact, I got to test drive the latest one.
I have to admit that the car was certainly very nice to drive in. Fun, cool, light steering....the only thing was it didn't feel solid (if you get what I mean). After much pondering, I told him that I would come back if I wanted the Yaris, as I wanted to search for other cars (eg, Corsa/peugeot). Being a really good salesman, he looked for a peugeot using his computer database.
There was Peugeot 1.1 that just arrived on site a few days ago. He asked if I would like to look at it. It was a 3 year old car, special edition - two-toned colour, and the mileage was merely 16ooo. The price was attractive too at 4988. So I test drove the car...and boy, it felt great! I loved it. It felt solid and definitely has slightly more power than the Yaris 1.0. In fact, it was a 5 door car and came with a CD player.
3 to 4 hours later, and after wasting loads of saliva talking/bargaining, I finally paid my deposit for the car....and I can collect it this Friday! woohoo! Can't wait to be honest...
Having looked through a few dealers over the weekend, I ended up with a big headache. I didn't know which car to buy...and to be honest, I didn't think I have seen a car that I fancied. Toyota Yaris? Vauxhall Corsa? Peugeot? I couldn't really decide.
On Sunday night, I made a list of the cars I would like to view. The dealers were rather near my place (except for one, the Toyota Bishopbriggs), and I thought I could use a morning walk to get to them. However, Toyota was the only shop that was selling a 1.3 Toyota Yaris, the car which I was looking at. And I really wanted to see and test drive it before making any further decision. Therefore, I decided to take the train to Bishopbriggs first thing on Monday morning, which I did.
I walked through the entire car park at Toyota, in search for that 1.3....but no where to be seen. All I saw was 3-4 1.0's. I was quite disappointed. Then, a car salesman approached me and asked if I needed help. I told him that I was looking for that 1.3...and he said it was sold last week. He offered me another 1.3 Yaris, which apparently, would only arrive this Sunday or the coming Monday. I couldn't wait that long. He also offered a few 1.0 Yaris. In fact, I got to test drive the latest one.
I have to admit that the car was certainly very nice to drive in. Fun, cool, light steering....the only thing was it didn't feel solid (if you get what I mean). After much pondering, I told him that I would come back if I wanted the Yaris, as I wanted to search for other cars (eg, Corsa/peugeot). Being a really good salesman, he looked for a peugeot using his computer database.
There was Peugeot 1.1 that just arrived on site a few days ago. He asked if I would like to look at it. It was a 3 year old car, special edition - two-toned colour, and the mileage was merely 16ooo. The price was attractive too at 4988. So I test drove the car...and boy, it felt great! I loved it. It felt solid and definitely has slightly more power than the Yaris 1.0. In fact, it was a 5 door car and came with a CD player.
3 to 4 hours later, and after wasting loads of saliva talking/bargaining, I finally paid my deposit for the car....and I can collect it this Friday! woohoo! Can't wait to be honest...
Monday, August 27, 2007
I Need to Scream
So that's what I am going to do.
Please close your ears...or rather your eyes.
AAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhHHHHHhhHHHhhhh
UUUUUUUUURRRRRRRrggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhHHHHHHHH
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAHahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaAHhhhhhhh
#^%$(*&@#$^$%)(*&@#&*(%$^
Now I feel marginally better.
Please close your ears...or rather your eyes.
AAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhHHHHHhhHHHhhhh
UUUUUUUUURRRRRRRrggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhHHHHHHHH
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAHahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaAHhhhhhhh
#^%$(*&@#$^$%)(*&@#&*(%$^
Now I feel marginally better.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
And now the headache begins...
I am happy that I have finished my night on calls. And it is the start of my holiday! =)
Now, what am I planning to do during my holidays?
Well, LOADS! But my top priority is to get a car.
So it will be a week filled with activities, such as, visiting different car dealers, bargaining, test driving, examining the car..etc...Sounds fun...No!
As it is now, I can feel the headache building deep inside my brain...and by the middle of the week, it will turn into a full blown one.
Apart from car hunting, I think my other priority is to treat myself to good food and good books. Enjoy myself as much as I can...that's the motto!
Now, what am I planning to do during my holidays?
Well, LOADS! But my top priority is to get a car.
So it will be a week filled with activities, such as, visiting different car dealers, bargaining, test driving, examining the car..etc...Sounds fun...No!
As it is now, I can feel the headache building deep inside my brain...and by the middle of the week, it will turn into a full blown one.
Apart from car hunting, I think my other priority is to treat myself to good food and good books. Enjoy myself as much as I can...that's the motto!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
=D
Yay!!!
I have passed my driving practical test!! =) *phew
Believe it or not, despite years of driving, I actually felt nervous?!
Anyhoo, I managed to calm my nerves and I am proud to say, I didn't make a single fault while driving!
Well, the examiner minused 3 points from my total for "driving not according to speed."
I wish I could disagree with that. The speed limit was 30mph. So I drove between 25-28 mph. Apparently that is TOO slow. I must drive at 30mph....total nonsense I would say!
The bottomline is I have passed...and I can't wait to go searching for my car! keke...
I have passed my driving practical test!! =) *phew
Believe it or not, despite years of driving, I actually felt nervous?!
Anyhoo, I managed to calm my nerves and I am proud to say, I didn't make a single fault while driving!
Well, the examiner minused 3 points from my total for "driving not according to speed."
I wish I could disagree with that. The speed limit was 30mph. So I drove between 25-28 mph. Apparently that is TOO slow. I must drive at 30mph....total nonsense I would say!
The bottomline is I have passed...and I can't wait to go searching for my car! keke...
Monday, August 20, 2007
Macam-macam Ragam
Kids can be really funny when they come into the hospital.
Over the past few days, I have came across various characters....and most of them seemed to be at the rebellious age of 13.
One of them took a few tablets of ecstasy and gulped down 3 bottles of cider. He came in totally pissed...and was so agitated, that he just couldn't even sit on the bed for even 5 sec! He managed to escaped from the ward and security found him sitting outside the hospital grounds asking people for cannabis?! Well, there is certainly no way to find cannabis around the hospital, so he was offered a cigarette instead.
Another drank abit too much of alcohol. Mum found him pissed. He was in fact urinating on himself....yuck! He came in just for observation....and the moment you said hello to him, he gave us all his middle finger! What character!
There was also a girl who refused to talk to anyone after having admitted after an overdose...she has alot of social issues...I pity the parents who were very sensible people.
Its a wonder that the age of 13 so many problems just arise. I remembered when I was 13, I was a goody two shoes in high school, trying to get used to the new school environment. I don't think I did anything naughty....hmm..well, in fact, I'm telling a lie...I think I attempted to escape from school a few times....hehe...
Oh well....without these kids...I think my night on calls would be pretty boring!
Over the past few days, I have came across various characters....and most of them seemed to be at the rebellious age of 13.
One of them took a few tablets of ecstasy and gulped down 3 bottles of cider. He came in totally pissed...and was so agitated, that he just couldn't even sit on the bed for even 5 sec! He managed to escaped from the ward and security found him sitting outside the hospital grounds asking people for cannabis?! Well, there is certainly no way to find cannabis around the hospital, so he was offered a cigarette instead.
Another drank abit too much of alcohol. Mum found him pissed. He was in fact urinating on himself....yuck! He came in just for observation....and the moment you said hello to him, he gave us all his middle finger! What character!
There was also a girl who refused to talk to anyone after having admitted after an overdose...she has alot of social issues...I pity the parents who were very sensible people.
Its a wonder that the age of 13 so many problems just arise. I remembered when I was 13, I was a goody two shoes in high school, trying to get used to the new school environment. I don't think I did anything naughty....hmm..well, in fact, I'm telling a lie...I think I attempted to escape from school a few times....hehe...
Oh well....without these kids...I think my night on calls would be pretty boring!
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Strange Meat
I had dinner at a Mongolian restaurant, and boy, it was strange!
My friend and I walked in without knowing what to expect.....we soon found out that it was a buffet style restaurant. You choose your meat, add the sauces/powders/spices/oil available, pass it to the chef and he will fry it for you. Easy peesy.
Since it was after 7pm, we were entitled for a "full feast" that included a starter and a dessert. For starters, I ordered nothing too strange...the wild boar dumplings. The dumplings tasted pretty much like the usual "soi kow" back home but with a heavier porky taste. SzeLeng ordered crocodile bites?! yeah....crocodile. Boy, the meat was really tough!! It was chewy...nah...I didn't really like it.
Then for the meat selection, there was a wide variety to choose from. Eg, shark, springbok (an African gazelle), rabbit, venison, beef, lamb, zebra, kangaroo and etc. Where do they get the supply of such meat? Well, the springbok, crocodile, zebra and kangaroo were apparently culled from an African safari.
I was trying to be adventurous, so I pulled out my guts and tried the springbok and shark. I couldn't bring myself to pick up the zebra or kangaroo meat....they were TOO strange! The shark tasted just like any other fish...hmm..something like the haddock or cod. The springbok on the other hand, was nearly similar to the venison or beef. But it certainly has its own distinctive taste! I'd added different sauces to the meat...and yes, lots of chilli powder just in case I find it difficult to eat. I am proud of myself, I did ok. =)
I guess it is a true Mongolian restaurant...because I remember watching the telly when I was a little girl about Mongolia...and they do eat strange meat. At the end of our feast, I was really filled up to the neck...I could not eat anymore meat....and we finished up with a slice of Mars Cheesecake and a banoffee pie. Just the right sweetie food to end a meal!
I wouldn't recommend this restaurant if you're not up to strange stuff...but it is no doubt a fun place to have a meal with friends as you can challenge each other to eat weird meat....and I guess the restaurant said it all, "It is not a place for the faint-hearted!"
My friend and I walked in without knowing what to expect.....we soon found out that it was a buffet style restaurant. You choose your meat, add the sauces/powders/spices/oil available, pass it to the chef and he will fry it for you. Easy peesy.
Since it was after 7pm, we were entitled for a "full feast" that included a starter and a dessert. For starters, I ordered nothing too strange...the wild boar dumplings. The dumplings tasted pretty much like the usual "soi kow" back home but with a heavier porky taste. SzeLeng ordered crocodile bites?! yeah....crocodile. Boy, the meat was really tough!! It was chewy...nah...I didn't really like it.
Then for the meat selection, there was a wide variety to choose from. Eg, shark, springbok (an African gazelle), rabbit, venison, beef, lamb, zebra, kangaroo and etc. Where do they get the supply of such meat? Well, the springbok, crocodile, zebra and kangaroo were apparently culled from an African safari.
I was trying to be adventurous, so I pulled out my guts and tried the springbok and shark. I couldn't bring myself to pick up the zebra or kangaroo meat....they were TOO strange! The shark tasted just like any other fish...hmm..something like the haddock or cod. The springbok on the other hand, was nearly similar to the venison or beef. But it certainly has its own distinctive taste! I'd added different sauces to the meat...and yes, lots of chilli powder just in case I find it difficult to eat. I am proud of myself, I did ok. =)
I guess it is a true Mongolian restaurant...because I remember watching the telly when I was a little girl about Mongolia...and they do eat strange meat. At the end of our feast, I was really filled up to the neck...I could not eat anymore meat....and we finished up with a slice of Mars Cheesecake and a banoffee pie. Just the right sweetie food to end a meal!
I wouldn't recommend this restaurant if you're not up to strange stuff...but it is no doubt a fun place to have a meal with friends as you can challenge each other to eat weird meat....and I guess the restaurant said it all, "It is not a place for the faint-hearted!"
Friday, August 17, 2007
Dragging Myself...
My night on calls start tonight for the next consecutive 7 days.
The beauty of working in a district hospital is the working hours tend to me more sociable. I remember working in the city hospital over the last year has been really busy. I do not get any days off except the weekends. However, I have gotten 2 days off since Wednesday in preparation for my nights! So I really shouldn't be complaining. I have been really spending my time with myself, my friends, and the shops! haha.
However, I still can't help myself but feel really lazy to go back to work. Oh well, I am sure this time next week I will be smiling as it would mark the end of my nights and the start of my holidays! Right ok. I need to shut up. Ohh....I can't wait till next Friday comes!
The beauty of working in a district hospital is the working hours tend to me more sociable. I remember working in the city hospital over the last year has been really busy. I do not get any days off except the weekends. However, I have gotten 2 days off since Wednesday in preparation for my nights! So I really shouldn't be complaining. I have been really spending my time with myself, my friends, and the shops! haha.
However, I still can't help myself but feel really lazy to go back to work. Oh well, I am sure this time next week I will be smiling as it would mark the end of my nights and the start of my holidays! Right ok. I need to shut up. Ohh....I can't wait till next Friday comes!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Zzzooommm....
It was my first time.
I have never ride on it before.
I went from A to Z within seconds...which was really quick!
It was the ultimate experience....possibly the one and only chance I'll ever have.
=)
I sat in an AUDI TT today!
Now what were you thinking?
Anyway, it was really cool. I thoroughly enjoyed my ride home after work today. My registrar offered to give me a lift as he knew I do not have a car. It was really kind of him. The Audi TT was super sleek and I felt so tiny sitting in the car. Unfortunately, as the seat was pretty low, I could not really see the road very well....the fact that I am short made it worse. I love the roaring sound of the engine....love the feeling of the car accelerating...
Everything inside the car looked UBER cool....boy, wished I had the money to buy this car! But guess I can't really think about buying one yet, as I have yet to sit for my driving test! The journey home from Wishaw to the West End of Glasgow normally takes about 30 minutes on a good day...with the Audi TT, it took merely 20 minutes!
I have never ride on it before.
I went from A to Z within seconds...which was really quick!
It was the ultimate experience....possibly the one and only chance I'll ever have.
=)
I sat in an AUDI TT today!
Now what were you thinking?
Anyway, it was really cool. I thoroughly enjoyed my ride home after work today. My registrar offered to give me a lift as he knew I do not have a car. It was really kind of him. The Audi TT was super sleek and I felt so tiny sitting in the car. Unfortunately, as the seat was pretty low, I could not really see the road very well....the fact that I am short made it worse. I love the roaring sound of the engine....love the feeling of the car accelerating...
Everything inside the car looked UBER cool....boy, wished I had the money to buy this car! But guess I can't really think about buying one yet, as I have yet to sit for my driving test! The journey home from Wishaw to the West End of Glasgow normally takes about 30 minutes on a good day...with the Audi TT, it took merely 20 minutes!
Schleeppyy...
I looked at my rota last nite. My shift starts at 4 pm today. Nice.... I thought to myself, because it means that I could afford to sleep in this morning. But heck no! I have to attend a pharmacy teaching at 9 am today. It was compulsory for all.
So dutifully, I woke up at 5.30 a.m.....I just couldn't sleep anymore. I got ready and met Laura at 7.50 at her place, before we left together. She drove. Teaching started at 9.15, and it only lasted for a good 20 minutes.
All the effort just for a 20 minute teaching about prescribing in children. I am SO dedicated, eh? Even my consultant asked me what am I doing in the ward when I was meant to be starting at 4pm. Well, you know, Dr. H said that it is compulsory and attendance will be taken. I wasn't keen on disobeying Dr. H because he is known to be very academic and strict.....furthermore, he is my supervisor for the next 4 months. So I really do not want to be in his bad books.
I travelled all the way back home after the teaching. Since then, I have been getting increasingly sleepy and restless. I want to go back to bed, but was worried that I will miss my train later. So I have been doing nothing except reading the news and surfing the internet aimlessly....
oh...yes, I was also religiously waiting for the post to come in....and was disappointed that there wasn't any letter for me. Now its time to change back into my working clothes and get the train to work...
So dutifully, I woke up at 5.30 a.m.....I just couldn't sleep anymore. I got ready and met Laura at 7.50 at her place, before we left together. She drove. Teaching started at 9.15, and it only lasted for a good 20 minutes.
All the effort just for a 20 minute teaching about prescribing in children. I am SO dedicated, eh? Even my consultant asked me what am I doing in the ward when I was meant to be starting at 4pm. Well, you know, Dr. H said that it is compulsory and attendance will be taken. I wasn't keen on disobeying Dr. H because he is known to be very academic and strict.....furthermore, he is my supervisor for the next 4 months. So I really do not want to be in his bad books.
I travelled all the way back home after the teaching. Since then, I have been getting increasingly sleepy and restless. I want to go back to bed, but was worried that I will miss my train later. So I have been doing nothing except reading the news and surfing the internet aimlessly....
oh...yes, I was also religiously waiting for the post to come in....and was disappointed that there wasn't any letter for me. Now its time to change back into my working clothes and get the train to work...
Sunday, August 12, 2007
I'm Better Now...
My frustration over what happened a few days ago has subsided quite significantly. My friends have been really caring and helpful. Thank you guys, you know who you are!
I had a fulfilling dinner on Thursday night, followed by coffee and blueberry cheesecake on Friday evening. Eating is really therapeutic, trust me. It kept my mind off things for awhile.
I woke up early on Saturday morning. The day started off miserably with quite heavy rain (and this persisted all day!). Anyway, just about 9 a.m., I was surprised to hear someone at the door. It was the post, and he announced that he had a delivery for me. I was intrigued, you know, wondering who sent me a delivery. I looked at the white envelope after putting down my signature on the document. Guess what? It was my debit card! yay! Talk about being efficient....the bank is really good.
Having my debit card has taken off a big load off my shoulders. I was getting worried that I wouldn't have enough money to buy food, to travel up and down Wishaw, to pay my driving instructor, etc... Yeah, my debit card is a true lifesaver! =)
With my debit card in hand, I had lunch with SzeL, Hoon and Peter at Nandos. keke...yes...you can get Nandos here in glasgow. We sat in Nandos for quite awhile, and then decided to go for retail therapy! Again, this was very therapeutic! haha.
This morning I woke up feeling better...less frustration, less anger....just happier. However, after my driving lesson, I could feel my frustration building up again. I kept thinking about my photocard...Fingers-crossed that it will arrive before Thursday, otherwise I will have to change the test date. =(
Oh well, nothing I can do. Just have to hope for the best.
I had a fulfilling dinner on Thursday night, followed by coffee and blueberry cheesecake on Friday evening. Eating is really therapeutic, trust me. It kept my mind off things for awhile.
I woke up early on Saturday morning. The day started off miserably with quite heavy rain (and this persisted all day!). Anyway, just about 9 a.m., I was surprised to hear someone at the door. It was the post, and he announced that he had a delivery for me. I was intrigued, you know, wondering who sent me a delivery. I looked at the white envelope after putting down my signature on the document. Guess what? It was my debit card! yay! Talk about being efficient....the bank is really good.
Having my debit card has taken off a big load off my shoulders. I was getting worried that I wouldn't have enough money to buy food, to travel up and down Wishaw, to pay my driving instructor, etc... Yeah, my debit card is a true lifesaver! =)
With my debit card in hand, I had lunch with SzeL, Hoon and Peter at Nandos. keke...yes...you can get Nandos here in glasgow. We sat in Nandos for quite awhile, and then decided to go for retail therapy! Again, this was very therapeutic! haha.
This morning I woke up feeling better...less frustration, less anger....just happier. However, after my driving lesson, I could feel my frustration building up again. I kept thinking about my photocard...Fingers-crossed that it will arrive before Thursday, otherwise I will have to change the test date. =(
Oh well, nothing I can do. Just have to hope for the best.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
F**K Sake!
I have finally managed to get in touch with DVLA yesterday afternoon to enquire whether or not I could sit my test without a photocard. The answer was NO. However, as I did not lose the paper part of my provisional licence, therefore, I could apply for a photocard replacement via the telephone and pay 22 quid with either my debit/credit card.
Great! I do not even have a debit or credit card because that f**king idoit stole it. argghh!! So I told her that I would get back to her.
I am blessed to have really good friends...Laura, my colleague, has kindly offered to let me use her debit card for the payment. It would take 15 working days before I could get my photocard replacement. Looks like I would not be able to take my test, which will be held next next Tuesday! And this really really sucks!!!!
urgghh!!!! I am really frustrated but I know there is nothing I can do. This will be the 2nd time I change my driving test date. The 1st time was when I found out that I would be doing a night on-call prior to the test day, and I would not be able to make it on time for the the test in the morning. So I have changed it to an afternoon session....But looks like I have change it again, as I am not sure when exactly I will get my photocard and I do not wish to lose my fees.
I have tried to look for a different date. The next available one will be at the end of September! I can't wait that long, because as it is now, I am having difficult going home after doing an on-call.
F**k sake!!!
Great! I do not even have a debit or credit card because that f**king idoit stole it. argghh!! So I told her that I would get back to her.
I am blessed to have really good friends...Laura, my colleague, has kindly offered to let me use her debit card for the payment. It would take 15 working days before I could get my photocard replacement. Looks like I would not be able to take my test, which will be held next next Tuesday! And this really really sucks!!!!
urgghh!!!! I am really frustrated but I know there is nothing I can do. This will be the 2nd time I change my driving test date. The 1st time was when I found out that I would be doing a night on-call prior to the test day, and I would not be able to make it on time for the the test in the morning. So I have changed it to an afternoon session....But looks like I have change it again, as I am not sure when exactly I will get my photocard and I do not wish to lose my fees.
I have tried to look for a different date. The next available one will be at the end of September! I can't wait that long, because as it is now, I am having difficult going home after doing an on-call.
F**k sake!!!
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Idiot
My purse was stolen today. In fact, the thief was so brave to steal 3 of our purses....well, it was 4 of us....because I found out that my other colleague also had hers stolen!!
I mean...if you want to steal...just take all the money you want. I really do not care. But I would really appreciate it if you leave my cards behind. I have lost my credit cards, Switch card, Dorothy Perkins card, Malaysian IC and driving licence, and my Provisional UK driving licence!!!!!
ARRRRGGGGgghghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That bloody idiot thief! Well, I guess I shouldn't say idiot...I should praise that thief for having a clean sweep of money today.
We all left our bags in the doctor's room. The door is usually closed, but there isn't a lock for it. We had teaching in the morning for about 30 minutes, and then, proceeded to follow the consultant on the ward round. I guess that was when the theft occurred. I was getting my purse for lunch...and that's when I realised that it was GONE! =(
This is the first time I had my purse stolen. And I am really pissed off. It was a real hassle trying to cancel my cards. I phoned the Malaysian Embassy in London to find out how I could replace my IC and driving licence. The advisor said thatI should not worry about it, as long as I make a police report and send a copy of it to them. They will then send a letter to JPJ and JPN, and send me a letter too. All I need to do the next time I'm home is show the letter to these two departments and I would get my cards replaced.
The only other thing that worries me is my provisional UK driving licence. My driving test is due in 2 weeks and I haven't been able to get in contact with DVLA all afternoon. I really hope that they would be able to issue me with another one before I go for the test. Otherwise, I doubt I would be able to take the test! And I am really desperate to get a proper UK licence.
ARRGGHHHH...
It was such a shite day. I totally lost my mood to do anything all afternoon. The day didn't start off well either as it was a bloody massacre in the ward this morning. I spilled blood all over the place while trying to take blood samples from babies. Kids are NOT easy to bleed. And the method of bleeding is very different from adults. urggh...I am not liking it at the moment!
Well, I hope whoever that stole my purse will never get married, and all his/her kids will be born without a butt. (just as the Chinese saying goes "Sang zhai mo si fatt." That should teach that person a lesson.
I mean...if you want to steal...just take all the money you want. I really do not care. But I would really appreciate it if you leave my cards behind. I have lost my credit cards, Switch card, Dorothy Perkins card, Malaysian IC and driving licence, and my Provisional UK driving licence!!!!!
ARRRRGGGGgghghhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That bloody idiot thief! Well, I guess I shouldn't say idiot...I should praise that thief for having a clean sweep of money today.
We all left our bags in the doctor's room. The door is usually closed, but there isn't a lock for it. We had teaching in the morning for about 30 minutes, and then, proceeded to follow the consultant on the ward round. I guess that was when the theft occurred. I was getting my purse for lunch...and that's when I realised that it was GONE! =(
This is the first time I had my purse stolen. And I am really pissed off. It was a real hassle trying to cancel my cards. I phoned the Malaysian Embassy in London to find out how I could replace my IC and driving licence. The advisor said thatI should not worry about it, as long as I make a police report and send a copy of it to them. They will then send a letter to JPJ and JPN, and send me a letter too. All I need to do the next time I'm home is show the letter to these two departments and I would get my cards replaced.
The only other thing that worries me is my provisional UK driving licence. My driving test is due in 2 weeks and I haven't been able to get in contact with DVLA all afternoon. I really hope that they would be able to issue me with another one before I go for the test. Otherwise, I doubt I would be able to take the test! And I am really desperate to get a proper UK licence.
ARRGGHHHH...
It was such a shite day. I totally lost my mood to do anything all afternoon. The day didn't start off well either as it was a bloody massacre in the ward this morning. I spilled blood all over the place while trying to take blood samples from babies. Kids are NOT easy to bleed. And the method of bleeding is very different from adults. urggh...I am not liking it at the moment!
Well, I hope whoever that stole my purse will never get married, and all his/her kids will be born without a butt. (just as the Chinese saying goes "Sang zhai mo si fatt." That should teach that person a lesson.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
911 dont make me wait ♫
I was looking through my mp3 collections and I came across this one. 911. I was their big fan when they first started. I was 15 at that time, and I remembered going to Sungai Wang to watch them perform this song with my classmate....and yeap, I suppose you can guess who I found really cute! =) The best thing is I still remember the lyrics to this song!!! hehe...amazing!
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Useless
2 days in a row....
2 days failing to cannulate 2 tiny babies...
totally useless...that's me I'm talking about.
sigh...think babies are really difficult to insert IV cannulas in. Firstly, I can't even palpate a vein... Secondly, their veins are super duper fragile. Thirdly, I'm just incompetent!!
I pity the babies that I've tried multiple times to insert a cannula. They must be in pain, especially one of them (which I thought I was successful....Not!). Because I totally blew that poor baby's vein....I formed a big lump while trying to flush it. uurggghh!!
Luckily the parents are patient and understanding...and I felt bad asking the registrars to cannulate the babies...oh well, what can I do.
2 days failing to cannulate 2 tiny babies...
totally useless...that's me I'm talking about.
sigh...think babies are really difficult to insert IV cannulas in. Firstly, I can't even palpate a vein... Secondly, their veins are super duper fragile. Thirdly, I'm just incompetent!!
I pity the babies that I've tried multiple times to insert a cannula. They must be in pain, especially one of them (which I thought I was successful....Not!). Because I totally blew that poor baby's vein....I formed a big lump while trying to flush it. uurggghh!!
Luckily the parents are patient and understanding...and I felt bad asking the registrars to cannulate the babies...oh well, what can I do.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
A Day of Feats...
I had my 1st dim sum since last year today!! hehe...It was an amazing feat to not eat it for such a long period of time... Had dim sum at a chinese restaurant not too far away from my place. I think the dish that I missed the most was the "Pei Tan Chook" (or Century egg porridge). And yes, I obviously ordered it. To my delight, the porridge from that restaurant was comparable to the one at the shop in Taman Connaught (my favourite dim sum shop). However, the crunchy crispy flour thing that you would normally mix together in the porridge was missing.
And then, there were the usual Siu Mai, Char Siu Pau, Chee Cheong Fun, War Tip, and a rather big plate of fried noodles. The Char Siu Pau wasn't that nice, because the filling did not taste like the ones at home...but guess, that will make do. The War Tip came in a massive size! It was quite nice. The noodles wasn't really tasty, but then again, since I haven't eaten it for ages, it was ok. I certainly did not realise that I have ordered too much....so CK and I took our time trying to finish up the remaining food. But heck, that is probably the only dim sum I'll eat for the rest of the year...so I didn't mind.
I also got to savour my 1st Tau Foo Fah for the year!! Yes, yet another amazing feat...keke. It was the perfect dessert to eat today as the weather in Glasgow was extremely miserable. I asked Helen, my housemate to try it, but she didn't really like it. She said the texture was too soft for her liking.
Oh....CK bought a pandan swiss roll cake from the chinese shop...and boy, it was superb! Very pandan-ny and not too sweet either.
My oh my....it was a day of nice food....this is life.
And then, there were the usual Siu Mai, Char Siu Pau, Chee Cheong Fun, War Tip, and a rather big plate of fried noodles. The Char Siu Pau wasn't that nice, because the filling did not taste like the ones at home...but guess, that will make do. The War Tip came in a massive size! It was quite nice. The noodles wasn't really tasty, but then again, since I haven't eaten it for ages, it was ok. I certainly did not realise that I have ordered too much....so CK and I took our time trying to finish up the remaining food. But heck, that is probably the only dim sum I'll eat for the rest of the year...so I didn't mind.
I also got to savour my 1st Tau Foo Fah for the year!! Yes, yet another amazing feat...keke. It was the perfect dessert to eat today as the weather in Glasgow was extremely miserable. I asked Helen, my housemate to try it, but she didn't really like it. She said the texture was too soft for her liking.
Oh....CK bought a pandan swiss roll cake from the chinese shop...and boy, it was superb! Very pandan-ny and not too sweet either.
My oh my....it was a day of nice food....this is life.
Stranger in A New Place
I have finished my year as a houseman or better known here as "Foundation Year 1" doc on the 31st of July. It has been a year full of bitter and sweet memories. I do not think that I would ever forget the feeling of stepping into a ward as a fresh graduate. It was SCARY. But, as time past by, I have learnt many things, learnt to work more efficiently, learnt to be a "paper work" machine, learnt to act as a "good vampire,"(I cannulated many patients and took their blood for tests), learnt to treat patients...etc..
There are times that I dreaded to go to work, times when I wished that I had a different job, and times when I wished that I had more time to sort out my chores. It was a year filled with cold sweats (when I do not know what to do), tears (when I was really angry with that bloody SHO), and laughter (as I enjoyed working with patients and my fellow colleagues). I felt really sad to leave my hospital, my comfort zone.
On 1st August, I started work in a brand new hospital as a "Foundation Year 2" or SHO in paediatrics. It was equally scary, but in a different way. This time I do have some experience, except that I have not done Paediatrics since I was a medical student, and it really intimidates me when someone calls me a SHO. I felt totally incompetent over the past few days. I do not know how to prescribe medications for the children, how to manage their conditions...etc...I was kinda starting of scratch again. sigh. I didn't know how to work the computer system either. I felt like a total Stranger! sigh.
Hopefully, with time, I would be able to build more confidence in myself. But I can say that I would surely not do paediatrics as a career.
There are times that I dreaded to go to work, times when I wished that I had a different job, and times when I wished that I had more time to sort out my chores. It was a year filled with cold sweats (when I do not know what to do), tears (when I was really angry with that bloody SHO), and laughter (as I enjoyed working with patients and my fellow colleagues). I felt really sad to leave my hospital, my comfort zone.
On 1st August, I started work in a brand new hospital as a "Foundation Year 2" or SHO in paediatrics. It was equally scary, but in a different way. This time I do have some experience, except that I have not done Paediatrics since I was a medical student, and it really intimidates me when someone calls me a SHO. I felt totally incompetent over the past few days. I do not know how to prescribe medications for the children, how to manage their conditions...etc...I was kinda starting of scratch again. sigh. I didn't know how to work the computer system either. I felt like a total Stranger! sigh.
Hopefully, with time, I would be able to build more confidence in myself. But I can say that I would surely not do paediatrics as a career.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Back From Holiday
I have been back since Saturday, but I just didn't have the chance to write anything here. My holiday was good fun. The weather wasn't that great, however, there was one full sunny day and the others were kind of scatterred rain and sun.
Cornwall is a beautiful place. Loads of beaches, rocky cliffs, gardens, etc. Oh, I also ate the ever famous "Cornish Pasty" (a steak pie) and ice-creams (lots & lots). =) So I really enjoyed myself, and it was a very relaxing holiday.....slept alot....which is just what I needed to rejuvenate myself after a long week of on-calls.
I'll let the pictures taken during my holiday speak for themselves.
The Giant Head @ The Lost Gardens of Heligans
The Eden Project
A Garden of Yellow Lillies
A Field of Purple Lavender
Spiky Flowers @ The Eden Project
Land's End (yeap, this marks the end of the land in England on the world map)
Land's End
Young girl at the edge of the cliff
At Tintagel Castle
A Peek Through The Wall of Tintagel Castle
Me & My Cornish Pasty
Scarecrow decorating the road signs @ Cornwall
Cornwall is a beautiful place. Loads of beaches, rocky cliffs, gardens, etc. Oh, I also ate the ever famous "Cornish Pasty" (a steak pie) and ice-creams (lots & lots). =) So I really enjoyed myself, and it was a very relaxing holiday.....slept alot....which is just what I needed to rejuvenate myself after a long week of on-calls.
I'll let the pictures taken during my holiday speak for themselves.
The Giant Head @ The Lost Gardens of Heligans
The Eden Project
A Garden of Yellow Lillies
A Field of Purple Lavender
Spiky Flowers @ The Eden Project
Land's End (yeap, this marks the end of the land in England on the world map)
Land's End
Young girl at the edge of the cliff
At Tintagel Castle
A Peek Through The Wall of Tintagel Castle
Me & My Cornish Pasty
Scarecrow decorating the road signs @ CornwallMonday, July 23, 2007
Cornwall Here I Come!
I'm going off on holiday!! =D
I will be off to the sandy beaches of Cornwall....hope the weather will be sunny...or even if it is cloudy, I do not mind, as long as it does not rain. I know the weather has been pretty awful lately...THE WETTEST SUMMER ever!
So will update once I'm back.
Hope everyone will have a good week!
I will be off to the sandy beaches of Cornwall....hope the weather will be sunny...or even if it is cloudy, I do not mind, as long as it does not rain. I know the weather has been pretty awful lately...THE WETTEST SUMMER ever!
So will update once I'm back.
Hope everyone will have a good week!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Hmmpphh!
On call over this weekend...and was hoping to leave work on time yesterday, but failed.
Someone loss her consciousness...I personally think that she has a TIA. But anyway, it wasn't so much the fact that I had to stay on to help her...it was a nurse that kind of annoyed me.
While I was sorting out this lady, a received a page from a different ward about a patient who was admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis. She said that she didn't know why the patient was prescribed with 10% dextrose, instead of the normal 5% one. And the patient's blood sugar level was now 29! Honestly, I did not know the answer to that...All I know was that the ward has a DKA protocol and we should follow it. But yeap, there isn't any 10% dextrose instruction on the protocol. So I told her to look in the notes to find out the reason for that or try giving the acute medical receiving ward a ring (patient was transferred from that ward, they would probably have a better idea about what's been going on). Her answer was, "I'm too busy...I can't phone them. But I'm worried about this patient."
Right...let me try to understand her sentence. You are too busy to give them a call, but yet you're worried?! hmm...If you are worried, you would be able to put other things aside, and phone....I told her that I was busy trying to review this lady who has lost her consciousness but will look into the matter once I'm done. She said, "He can't wait that long."
WHAT?! So he can't wait, but you still refused to phone the ward to find out...GREAT! So I told her to stop the infusions at the moment till I go to her ward.
She's a total arsehole! She really frustrated me. Hmmpphh!
Someone loss her consciousness...I personally think that she has a TIA. But anyway, it wasn't so much the fact that I had to stay on to help her...it was a nurse that kind of annoyed me.
While I was sorting out this lady, a received a page from a different ward about a patient who was admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis. She said that she didn't know why the patient was prescribed with 10% dextrose, instead of the normal 5% one. And the patient's blood sugar level was now 29! Honestly, I did not know the answer to that...All I know was that the ward has a DKA protocol and we should follow it. But yeap, there isn't any 10% dextrose instruction on the protocol. So I told her to look in the notes to find out the reason for that or try giving the acute medical receiving ward a ring (patient was transferred from that ward, they would probably have a better idea about what's been going on). Her answer was, "I'm too busy...I can't phone them. But I'm worried about this patient."
Right...let me try to understand her sentence. You are too busy to give them a call, but yet you're worried?! hmm...If you are worried, you would be able to put other things aside, and phone....I told her that I was busy trying to review this lady who has lost her consciousness but will look into the matter once I'm done. She said, "He can't wait that long."
WHAT?! So he can't wait, but you still refused to phone the ward to find out...GREAT! So I told her to stop the infusions at the moment till I go to her ward.
She's a total arsehole! She really frustrated me. Hmmpphh!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Hay Fever
I couldn't sleep all of Monday night....well, I'm telling a lie. I slept for a few hours, woke up, slept again, woke up...etc.
I think it is probably peak summer time. Therefore pollen is at the max level. My eyes were so itchy yesterday night...I sneezed a few times, and my nose felt quite itchy. When I woke up at about 8 am, my throat felt weird again...like as though I was going to have another sore throat. My eyes were still rather itchy, and slighly watery. I "ahchoo-ed" a few more times...and I decided that I had enough. I took one tab of clarityn. I felt better throughout the day, otherwise I doubt I could even concentrate while being on-call.
I really do not like Hay Fever!!!
I think it is probably peak summer time. Therefore pollen is at the max level. My eyes were so itchy yesterday night...I sneezed a few times, and my nose felt quite itchy. When I woke up at about 8 am, my throat felt weird again...like as though I was going to have another sore throat. My eyes were still rather itchy, and slighly watery. I "ahchoo-ed" a few more times...and I decided that I had enough. I took one tab of clarityn. I felt better throughout the day, otherwise I doubt I could even concentrate while being on-call.
I really do not like Hay Fever!!!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
A Lovely Weekend
I had a very relaxing weekend!!
On Friday after work:
- Spent 30 minutes on the treadmill
- Dinner with SzeL
Spent Saturday in Glasgow City:
- Watched Harry Potter
- Shopping
- Dinner at Pancho Villa (the mexican food wasn't that great)
- Had coffee and soaked up the sun at George's Square
- Karaoke session at home. SzeL & I were singing hits from Michael Learns to Rock because my parents told me that they attended the band's concert at Genting Highlands. MLTR reminded me of my childhood days when they were so popular!
And today:
- I woke up really early to catch the first train to Ayr with SzeL
- Had scone + butter + jam at a garden under the sun
- Picnic at the beach in Ayr with strawberries, ice cream, orange juice
- Shopping, Again!
- Dinner at a nice pub
Whilst having my shower, I realised that the skin at my upper left arm is red! Must be the sun... hehe...but I do not mind...I love getting a tan....because I will become so fair again, once autumn begins in just a few more weeks.
=) It was a lovely weekend! Now I do not feel like going to work...but oh well....tomorrow is a bank holiday but I'm on-call ...so here's hoping that most of the population is away on holiday in a different country.....which means less admission to the hospital! =P (yeah, right!)
On Friday after work:
- Spent 30 minutes on the treadmill
- Dinner with SzeL
Spent Saturday in Glasgow City:
- Watched Harry Potter
- Shopping
- Dinner at Pancho Villa (the mexican food wasn't that great)
- Had coffee and soaked up the sun at George's Square
- Karaoke session at home. SzeL & I were singing hits from Michael Learns to Rock because my parents told me that they attended the band's concert at Genting Highlands. MLTR reminded me of my childhood days when they were so popular!
And today:
- I woke up really early to catch the first train to Ayr with SzeL
- Had scone + butter + jam at a garden under the sun
- Picnic at the beach in Ayr with strawberries, ice cream, orange juice
- Shopping, Again!
- Dinner at a nice pub
Whilst having my shower, I realised that the skin at my upper left arm is red! Must be the sun... hehe...but I do not mind...I love getting a tan....because I will become so fair again, once autumn begins in just a few more weeks.
=) It was a lovely weekend! Now I do not feel like going to work...but oh well....tomorrow is a bank holiday but I'm on-call ...so here's hoping that most of the population is away on holiday in a different country.....which means less admission to the hospital! =P (yeah, right!)
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Adabracadabra!
That was how quick Sirius was killed in the latest Harry Potter movie, The Order of The Phoenix. I thought that he was killed too easily by just a wave of the wand and the word, "Adabracadabra!"
But, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire film. I felt that the movie was darker than the previous ones, which really made it far more exciting to watch. I loved the way the movie creators projected the character Dolores Umbridge....She was extremely pink! Helena Bonham Carter played her role really well!
Oh...yes....and the much talked about snogging scene. hehe...It was nothing! Just an innocent kiss under the mistletoe...keke. I guess it gave the movie a wee bit of a "oomph" eh?
But, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire film. I felt that the movie was darker than the previous ones, which really made it far more exciting to watch. I loved the way the movie creators projected the character Dolores Umbridge....She was extremely pink! Helena Bonham Carter played her role really well!
Oh...yes....and the much talked about snogging scene. hehe...It was nothing! Just an innocent kiss under the mistletoe...keke. I guess it gave the movie a wee bit of a "oomph" eh?
Thursday, July 12, 2007
*Eeeksss...he is back again!
Remember my previous post about being chased out of the ward by a patient who was violent? If you don't, please visit http://sawling.blogspot.com/2007/05/scariest-moment.html
Anyway, I went to work this morning and saw a familiar name on the board. I went over to the room to see if it was really who I thought it was....and OMG! It was HIM!!
He's back again in the hospital with ...yeap...alcohol related illness....
eekks...really scary to see hime again...he just looks just the same as before. Scary.
Anyway, I went to work this morning and saw a familiar name on the board. I went over to the room to see if it was really who I thought it was....and OMG! It was HIM!!
He's back again in the hospital with ...yeap...alcohol related illness....
eekks...really scary to see hime again...he just looks just the same as before. Scary.
Deaths and more deaths....
Although the medical receiving unit is not as busy as during the winter months, I have seen so many deaths recently. And the main underlying cause of their death was alcohol.
Alcohol taken in moderate amounts is fine...but too much, can damage your liver. People with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) hold the season ticket into the hospital. We spent so much money and effort treating them, but they do not appreciate us. Once discharged, they are back to their drinking habits again. And the whole vicious cycle begins.
Just over the past 3 weeks, about more than 5 deaths have been due to ALD. One guy in particular was a frequent flyer into the hospital. He was admitted with haematemesis.....Again. He was so popular amongst us doctors that almost everyone in medicine knew who he was. Bleeding varices was his main problem. He got them banded in every single hospital admission, and once he got better, he insisted to sign himself out of the hospital. However, this time, he said that he does not want anything done to treat his condition. He died within 24 hours. He was only in his 30s. I guess he was tired of his illness.
It is a shame that those with ALD die that a very young age. For example, 3 women died recently, and all of them are between age 30-35, with children at home!! Shocking! I know it is pretty easy for me to say, "Stop drinking." But the thought that these people drink like there is no tomorrow without even considering about their children really disturbs me. Oh well, who am I to judge them eh?
Alcohol taken in moderate amounts is fine...but too much, can damage your liver. People with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) hold the season ticket into the hospital. We spent so much money and effort treating them, but they do not appreciate us. Once discharged, they are back to their drinking habits again. And the whole vicious cycle begins.
Just over the past 3 weeks, about more than 5 deaths have been due to ALD. One guy in particular was a frequent flyer into the hospital. He was admitted with haematemesis.....Again. He was so popular amongst us doctors that almost everyone in medicine knew who he was. Bleeding varices was his main problem. He got them banded in every single hospital admission, and once he got better, he insisted to sign himself out of the hospital. However, this time, he said that he does not want anything done to treat his condition. He died within 24 hours. He was only in his 30s. I guess he was tired of his illness.
It is a shame that those with ALD die that a very young age. For example, 3 women died recently, and all of them are between age 30-35, with children at home!! Shocking! I know it is pretty easy for me to say, "Stop drinking." But the thought that these people drink like there is no tomorrow without even considering about their children really disturbs me. Oh well, who am I to judge them eh?
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Superb Tennis
Ahh..what a nice way to spend a Sunday in front of the telly.
It was a nail biting Wimbledon men singles final match today. I am so glad that I watched it. Nadal put up a fantastic fight against Fedex. I got the nerves when I watched them play....can't imagine if I were the player....I would probably die of anxiety! (erm...mind you, I can't even play tennis! I would be picking up the ball more than anything else!)
Glad I wasn't working over the weekend! tee hee hee....oooh....I can't wait till the next Wimbledon match 12 months later! =)
It was a nail biting Wimbledon men singles final match today. I am so glad that I watched it. Nadal put up a fantastic fight against Fedex. I got the nerves when I watched them play....can't imagine if I were the player....I would probably die of anxiety! (erm...mind you, I can't even play tennis! I would be picking up the ball more than anything else!)
Glad I wasn't working over the weekend! tee hee hee....oooh....I can't wait till the next Wimbledon match 12 months later! =)
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Giggling All The Way
Shrek 3 is great! I just watched it today...and I practically laughed throughout the entire movie.
You know, some movies that have sequels become boring. For example, Pirates of The Carribbean 3 really put me to sleep. But Shrek The Third...was simply amazing!
I love the cute donkey-dragon babies, ogre babies, puss in boots....hehe...highly recommended if anyone has not watched it yet.
You know, some movies that have sequels become boring. For example, Pirates of The Carribbean 3 really put me to sleep. But Shrek The Third...was simply amazing!
I love the cute donkey-dragon babies, ogre babies, puss in boots....hehe...highly recommended if anyone has not watched it yet.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Sniffly Snuffly
aaaa....aaaAAAa......AAAHhhhhCCCCCHHHHHhhhoooooooo
aaaaaaAAAAAHHHHCCCCHHHhhhooooooo
AAAAACCCCChhhhhhhooooooo
*sniff *sniff *sniff
Woke up this morning with THE most painful sorethroat I have ever had. It was so painful to even swallow some water. But I did it anyway, to try to soothe the throat.
Not too long after that, this sore throat changed into a runny nose. I was sneezing all day, my eyes were very watery, my nose was super duper itchy. I was feeling cold, but was sweating at the same time. The day was AWFUL!
=( I came home and had a very warm shower. It did not relieve my nose. I had a hot bowl of soup, and that seemed to have cleared up my nose.....but not for long.
AaHHHhcCchhhooo....
There goes my nose again. I'm going to sleep now...and maybe swallow an antihistamine to reduce the itchiness. My eyes are so watery...I could hardly keep them open. So good nite ppl.
aaaaaaAAAAAHHHHCCCCHHHhhhooooooo
AAAAACCCCChhhhhhhooooooo
*sniff *sniff *sniff
Woke up this morning with THE most painful sorethroat I have ever had. It was so painful to even swallow some water. But I did it anyway, to try to soothe the throat.
Not too long after that, this sore throat changed into a runny nose. I was sneezing all day, my eyes were very watery, my nose was super duper itchy. I was feeling cold, but was sweating at the same time. The day was AWFUL!
=( I came home and had a very warm shower. It did not relieve my nose. I had a hot bowl of soup, and that seemed to have cleared up my nose.....but not for long.
AaHHHhcCchhhooo....
There goes my nose again. I'm going to sleep now...and maybe swallow an antihistamine to reduce the itchiness. My eyes are so watery...I could hardly keep them open. So good nite ppl.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head
Raindrops keep falling on my head
But that doesnt mean my eyes will soon be turnin red
Cryings not for me
Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin
Because I'm free
Nothings worrying me.
The summer is so SOOO WET!? When I go to work, raindrops fall on my head, and when I walk back home from work, raindrops fall again. Raindrops KEEP falling on my head!!!
It is already July, and half the summer is gone. I have not seen the bright sunshine for ages....this is not summer...the weather seems to resemble autumn (although the temperature is definitely warmer).
The lyrics above is correct. I can never stop the rain by complaining. hmm...I'm not too sure about the "because I'm free and nothings worrying me" part. Heck, I am a busy woman....and yes....plenty things are worrying me.
hmm...for eg, I'm worried that I'll be blown into bits while riding on the subway/train. I'm worried that I won't be able to pass my practical driving test. I'm worried that I would not be able to treat kids when I start my paediatric rotation next month. I'm worried that I won't be able to wake up tomorrow morning on time (shh...did i mention that I slept in on Monday?! but I was safe...was only 5 mins late...keke) Oh boy....there are plenty things to worry about!
Right. Please forgive me for this totally random blogging.
But that doesnt mean my eyes will soon be turnin red
Cryings not for me
Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin
Because I'm free
Nothings worrying me.
The summer is so SOOO WET!? When I go to work, raindrops fall on my head, and when I walk back home from work, raindrops fall again. Raindrops KEEP falling on my head!!!
It is already July, and half the summer is gone. I have not seen the bright sunshine for ages....this is not summer...the weather seems to resemble autumn (although the temperature is definitely warmer).
The lyrics above is correct. I can never stop the rain by complaining. hmm...I'm not too sure about the "because I'm free and nothings worrying me" part. Heck, I am a busy woman....and yes....plenty things are worrying me.
hmm...for eg, I'm worried that I'll be blown into bits while riding on the subway/train. I'm worried that I won't be able to pass my practical driving test. I'm worried that I would not be able to treat kids when I start my paediatric rotation next month. I'm worried that I won't be able to wake up tomorrow morning on time (shh...did i mention that I slept in on Monday?! but I was safe...was only 5 mins late...keke) Oh boy....there are plenty things to worry about!
Right. Please forgive me for this totally random blogging.
Monday, July 02, 2007
I am in Love
Yes! I have fallen in love.
It's been a long time since I've felt like this. He is super hot.
I couldn't take my eyes of him.
His smile just melts my heart. His eyes are beautiful. As I watched him, I just wished I could give him a big huggie.
Oh...I have fallen in love....
...fallen so deep in love....
with Jude Law! =P
keke.....I know this sounds really daft. But Jude Law has always been my favourite actor.... and after having watched him in "The Holiday" just now on DVD, this fact still stands.
It's been a long time since I've felt like this. He is super hot.
I couldn't take my eyes of him.
His smile just melts my heart. His eyes are beautiful. As I watched him, I just wished I could give him a big huggie.
Oh...I have fallen in love....
...fallen so deep in love....
with Jude Law! =P
keke.....I know this sounds really daft. But Jude Law has always been my favourite actor.... and after having watched him in "The Holiday" just now on DVD, this fact still stands.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Another Day
It's my 6th day of being on-call today...very night when I reach home about midnite, I feel very hungry. I would eat something and then fall alseep in front of the telly. Simply knackered. Unsurprisingly, it has been busy....and I have reached the stage where I really could not be bothered to do anything...but I got no choice. Every morning when I wake up, I would tell myself, "It's just another day." To make matters worse, its Wimbledon time...and I wish I could stay at home and watch Federer or Rafael play tennis.....but nope....have to go to work! Sigh....hope the weekend will be peaceful for me.
Friday, June 22, 2007
I Wonder
The whole event yesterday magnified. Luckily I did explain to my senior what happened last night, because at 9.30 am today, the bloody SHO called up my senior to complain. She complained that there wasn't any medical review for many days. Apparently, medics were supposed to review the patient daily. But heck, we are no psychic....we wouldn't know that you wanted the review daily unless you tell us so. Everyone agree?
To make matters worse, the plastics consultant phoned my senior to ask what the hell was going on. Anyhow, my SHO was right, if they want to be anal about everything, let them be. As professionals, we need to be as polite as we can...and that would make them ashamed of themselves.
I couldn't help but also feel that the whole thing must have been sparked by me. I wondered whether I did the wrong thing. I wondered whether if I had been more polite to her the whole event would not be as complicated as it is now. I wonder.
To make matters worse, the plastics consultant phoned my senior to ask what the hell was going on. Anyhow, my SHO was right, if they want to be anal about everything, let them be. As professionals, we need to be as polite as we can...and that would make them ashamed of themselves.
I couldn't help but also feel that the whole thing must have been sparked by me. I wondered whether I did the wrong thing. I wondered whether if I had been more polite to her the whole event would not be as complicated as it is now. I wonder.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
And So I Cried
Have any of you felt so angry that you cried? Well, I ended up in tears today after work.
At about 5.30pm, I was still in my own ward trying to sort out an ascitic tap and pleural aspiration, when a SHO from plastics phoned the ward. She asked to speak to one of the medical staff. So, I answered the call. The SHO asked me to review one of the patients in her ward who was going for a skin graft tomorrow. I told her that all my seniors have left the building (it is already 5.30pm!). She insisted that someone needs to see the patient to decide whether or not this patient is medically fit enough for his skin graft, and whether or not he requires a blood transfusion. The patient was last seen 2 days ago by my consultant.
As far as I know, I have only met this patient once, because he was transferred to plastics for management of his skin infection the following day. I do not know what has been happening to him after that. I am aware that this patient is being cared by both the plastics and medical team.
I informed the SHO that I am only the junior house officer and if she wanted a senior review, she would need to page the on-call medical SHO. She cheekily said, "You have to page the SHO, because I do not know this patient that well." hmm....excuse me? Aren't you the person who is going to perform the surgery on this patient? "Well, to be honest, I do not know him very well either. I have only met him once, and I do not know of his progress thus far," I answered. Again, she insisted that I should page the on-call SHO to review the patient. "Right ok," was my answer.
2 hours later.....after I have sorted my ward out, I decided that it is not appropriate to contact the medical SHO on-call, as he totally does not know the patient...and by right, it should be my seniors that review the patient. So I thought I would just pop up into the ward to find out what the main issues were with the patient and if possible, try to sort them out.
At the ward, I looked into the patients notes and found that someone has spoken to the medical SHO about the patient, and a plan was in place. The patient was to get his 2 units of blood transfusion. So I told the nurses that they should proceed with the plan. And just as I was about to leave, the telephone in the ward rang, and it was the plastics SHO on the phone. She asked to speak to me.
"Right, first I was told this patient was for a transfusion. Then, someone told me that patient is NOT for a transfusion, and now you're telling me that patient should get the transfusion. So which one is it?" said the SHO.
"I do not see anywhere in the notes that stated that patient is not for a transfusion...so it would be wise to follow what the medical SHO has written down, ie, to transfuse."
"Right ok. You medical people always see the patient and do not do anything for them."
"If you are not happy with our treatment, please speak to the consultant about it."
"Now, can you crossmatch this patient then?"
"Err...no."
"Well, this patient has joint care and I am NOT your house officer. You do not need to ask the nurses to phone me up and ask me to crossmatch the patient."
"Neither am I your house officer. I never did ask the nurses to contact you about that. They did it themselves.."
"Fine. But I am totally swamped...so busy. You have to crossmatch the patient. You medics just leave everything for us to do."
"But the patient is in your own ward?! You wanted to know whether you can transfuse him...and I said ok. And now you want me to send a crossmatch sample?"
The SHO kept ranting away about how taking the blood sample is my job and releasing her anger at me. She was bloody rude. You know, she is on-call...and I am not. Why do I have to do her jobs?!
At the end, I know I was losing the battle, and I just said, "Fine ok," and slammed the phone down even before she could say anything further. I told myself to take a deep breathe and just take the blood sample at 7.45 pm!
After that, I left the ward....and mumbled to myself, "Fucking bitch." I felt so angry at the way she spoke to me, trying to sound all high n mighty and so bloody cheeky!!! I was very angry until I cried. It wasn't so much that she was being rude to me...it was more of the fact that she was just being so unfair.
At about 5.30pm, I was still in my own ward trying to sort out an ascitic tap and pleural aspiration, when a SHO from plastics phoned the ward. She asked to speak to one of the medical staff. So, I answered the call. The SHO asked me to review one of the patients in her ward who was going for a skin graft tomorrow. I told her that all my seniors have left the building (it is already 5.30pm!). She insisted that someone needs to see the patient to decide whether or not this patient is medically fit enough for his skin graft, and whether or not he requires a blood transfusion. The patient was last seen 2 days ago by my consultant.
As far as I know, I have only met this patient once, because he was transferred to plastics for management of his skin infection the following day. I do not know what has been happening to him after that. I am aware that this patient is being cared by both the plastics and medical team.
I informed the SHO that I am only the junior house officer and if she wanted a senior review, she would need to page the on-call medical SHO. She cheekily said, "You have to page the SHO, because I do not know this patient that well." hmm....excuse me? Aren't you the person who is going to perform the surgery on this patient? "Well, to be honest, I do not know him very well either. I have only met him once, and I do not know of his progress thus far," I answered. Again, she insisted that I should page the on-call SHO to review the patient. "Right ok," was my answer.
2 hours later.....after I have sorted my ward out, I decided that it is not appropriate to contact the medical SHO on-call, as he totally does not know the patient...and by right, it should be my seniors that review the patient. So I thought I would just pop up into the ward to find out what the main issues were with the patient and if possible, try to sort them out.
At the ward, I looked into the patients notes and found that someone has spoken to the medical SHO about the patient, and a plan was in place. The patient was to get his 2 units of blood transfusion. So I told the nurses that they should proceed with the plan. And just as I was about to leave, the telephone in the ward rang, and it was the plastics SHO on the phone. She asked to speak to me.
"Right, first I was told this patient was for a transfusion. Then, someone told me that patient is NOT for a transfusion, and now you're telling me that patient should get the transfusion. So which one is it?" said the SHO.
"I do not see anywhere in the notes that stated that patient is not for a transfusion...so it would be wise to follow what the medical SHO has written down, ie, to transfuse."
"Right ok. You medical people always see the patient and do not do anything for them."
"If you are not happy with our treatment, please speak to the consultant about it."
"Now, can you crossmatch this patient then?"
"Err...no."
"Well, this patient has joint care and I am NOT your house officer. You do not need to ask the nurses to phone me up and ask me to crossmatch the patient."
"Neither am I your house officer. I never did ask the nurses to contact you about that. They did it themselves.."
"Fine. But I am totally swamped...so busy. You have to crossmatch the patient. You medics just leave everything for us to do."
"But the patient is in your own ward?! You wanted to know whether you can transfuse him...and I said ok. And now you want me to send a crossmatch sample?"
The SHO kept ranting away about how taking the blood sample is my job and releasing her anger at me. She was bloody rude. You know, she is on-call...and I am not. Why do I have to do her jobs?!
At the end, I know I was losing the battle, and I just said, "Fine ok," and slammed the phone down even before she could say anything further. I told myself to take a deep breathe and just take the blood sample at 7.45 pm!
After that, I left the ward....and mumbled to myself, "Fucking bitch." I felt so angry at the way she spoke to me, trying to sound all high n mighty and so bloody cheeky!!! I was very angry until I cried. It wasn't so much that she was being rude to me...it was more of the fact that she was just being so unfair.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Favourite Food
I've been sleeping all night long...had a splitting headache all day yesterday. It was awful. Dunno why...but I will blame the warm weather mixed with chilly spells as the culprit. Lucky that the headache is away now.
Anyway, yes, favourite food. I would say my ALL time favourite would be the one and only nasi lemak. =) The simpler the nasi lemak, the more delicious it is. I do not mind eating just the sambal and the nasi...yum yum. Crazy eh?
I know I can prepare this dish myself, but I can never make the sambal like the ones sold at the market back home.....sigh (makes think about the delicious spicy nasi lemak that mum usually buys from the market at home!). I remembered the last time I went home, which was during CNY, all I ever ate nearly every morning was, yeap, nasi lemak! hehe. (Think my arteries are probably 50% blocked after that trip!)
hmm...besides nasi lemak, I do enjoy asam laksa, maggi mee goreng (especially the one at Steven's Corner) and dim sum. =) Now, I am REALLY homesick.
Anyway, yes, favourite food. I would say my ALL time favourite would be the one and only nasi lemak. =) The simpler the nasi lemak, the more delicious it is. I do not mind eating just the sambal and the nasi...yum yum. Crazy eh?
I know I can prepare this dish myself, but I can never make the sambal like the ones sold at the market back home.....sigh (makes think about the delicious spicy nasi lemak that mum usually buys from the market at home!). I remembered the last time I went home, which was during CNY, all I ever ate nearly every morning was, yeap, nasi lemak! hehe. (Think my arteries are probably 50% blocked after that trip!)
hmm...besides nasi lemak, I do enjoy asam laksa, maggi mee goreng (especially the one at Steven's Corner) and dim sum. =) Now, I am REALLY homesick.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Michael Buble - Home
All of a sudden....I feel very homesick and feel like going home....hence the song. Enjoy people!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
A Big THANK YOU & HUGS
Thank you all my dear friends for your birthday wishes.
Those of you who called from Singapore/Malaysia....I am thrilled & happy to have received your calls today.
Thank you to Laura & George, for the lovely dinner tonight.
Thank you all for the presents. I really loved them all.
Thank you to my nurses and fellow colleagues at the hospital for your warm wishes.
I had an amazing day. I couldn't help smiling all day. I felt really blessed and lucky to have known people like all of you out there.
Believe it or not, my patients bought me a birthday present today! It was a box of celebration chocolates and a birthday card....aww....it was really sweet of the 3 of you.Thank you.
Thank you. CK for the cocktail shaker....will try to practise my cocktail making skills! =)
Thank you Green Pea for the lovely present...I do like it alot. In fact, I have put it on for 2 days dy. hehe.
Thank you. Helen for the birthday balloons that you put up on my door today....I am really surprised to see them when I came home!
Thank you SzeLeng & GeakPoh for the lovely dinner last week, and the wonderful presents as well.
Whoever I have missed out, you know who you are, and I thank you once again.
A quarter of a century old....what the heck. Life only just started. =D
A BIIIGGG HUG for all of you! Cheers!!
Those of you who called from Singapore/Malaysia....I am thrilled & happy to have received your calls today.
Thank you to Laura & George, for the lovely dinner tonight.
Thank you all for the presents. I really loved them all.
Thank you to my nurses and fellow colleagues at the hospital for your warm wishes.
I had an amazing day. I couldn't help smiling all day. I felt really blessed and lucky to have known people like all of you out there.
Believe it or not, my patients bought me a birthday present today! It was a box of celebration chocolates and a birthday card....aww....it was really sweet of the 3 of you.Thank you.
Thank you. CK for the cocktail shaker....will try to practise my cocktail making skills! =)
Thank you Green Pea for the lovely present...I do like it alot. In fact, I have put it on for 2 days dy. hehe.
Thank you. Helen for the birthday balloons that you put up on my door today....I am really surprised to see them when I came home!
Thank you SzeLeng & GeakPoh for the lovely dinner last week, and the wonderful presents as well.
Whoever I have missed out, you know who you are, and I thank you once again.
A quarter of a century old....what the heck. Life only just started. =D
A BIIIGGG HUG for all of you! Cheers!!
Happy Birthday to Me!
Happy birthday to me
Happy birthday to me
Happy birthday to sawling
Happy birthday to me!
How does it feel like being quarter of a century old? Just the same.
Now, back to my "birthday pledge," which I made in May. Lets go through them one by one.
1. NO more chocolates from now.
Failed miserably.
2. RUN 3 km in 30 minutes effortlessly.
Yes, I did it!
3. STOP ranting about the daily happenings in life.
Probably ranting less, but I STILL rant.
4. EAT more heathily.
I am trying my best, trust me.
5. SMILE more. Frown less.
Did ok.
6. READ 3 books.
Now, I read half of The Da Vinci Code, and about 2-3 mags. Does that count? Can la...I can bend my own rules. keke.
7. LOSE some weight.
Failed miserably too.
8.GO wall-climbing.
No one to go with. So didn't attempt it.
So...guess it wasn't quite successful, but oh well, nevermind. It was just for fun. Quite sleepy now....going to bed....but at the same time, I wanna stay up for longer on my birthday, because it is only once a year I get to celebrate me. keke =P
Plans for the day? NONE. I am planning to sit at home and chill.
Happy birthday to me
Happy birthday to sawling
Happy birthday to me!
How does it feel like being quarter of a century old? Just the same.
Now, back to my "birthday pledge," which I made in May. Lets go through them one by one.
1. NO more chocolates from now.
Failed miserably.
2. RUN 3 km in 30 minutes effortlessly.
Yes, I did it!
3. STOP ranting about the daily happenings in life.
Probably ranting less, but I STILL rant.
4. EAT more heathily.
I am trying my best, trust me.
5. SMILE more. Frown less.
Did ok.
6. READ 3 books.
Now, I read half of The Da Vinci Code, and about 2-3 mags. Does that count? Can la...I can bend my own rules. keke.
7. LOSE some weight.
Failed miserably too.
8.GO wall-climbing.
No one to go with. So didn't attempt it.
So...guess it wasn't quite successful, but oh well, nevermind. It was just for fun. Quite sleepy now....going to bed....but at the same time, I wanna stay up for longer on my birthday, because it is only once a year I get to celebrate me. keke =P
Plans for the day? NONE. I am planning to sit at home and chill.
Monday, June 11, 2007
M.O.N.D.A.Y. again.....
Monday. Never liked Mondays. Something normally happens on a Monday.
What happened today?
1. Well, to start with, the ward round took ages! It didn't finish till about 12pm, and it wasn't finished at that time. There were still 2 more to be seen.
2. Tried to get in contact with the person on-call for a specialty, but no one answered the page. Finally, I managed to speak to the person after like 5 pages!
3. An awful cardiac arrest occured in the ward opposite mine. I heard the emergency buzzer and went across. I knew something wasn't right the moment I saw the nurse pushingthe cardiac arrest trolley. Arrest, yes, that can occur to any patients in the ward. But it was a visitor that actually arrested! She didn't make it in the end. Her mum, who was sick patient, was devastated. (Imagine, we had to get the mum out of her bed, so that her daughter can be resuscitated!!! Awful!)
4. An emergency admission from the diabetes clinic at 5pm?! Arggh....I mean I could, of course, let the person who is on-call from 5pm onwards to sort that patient out, but that would be pretty irresponsible, I think.
5. My friend was being pretty nippy to me today, dunno for what reasons...probably because she's been nipped at by the sister in her ward. But hey, do not need to lash it out on other people ok?
hmm...can't remember what else happened today. But it wasn't till nearly 7pm before I left the hospital. Cooked something really different tonight: aubergines, spinach, asparagus, chicken with salsa sauce?! How weird is that? Oh well, need to start doing some work. *yawn
What happened today?
1. Well, to start with, the ward round took ages! It didn't finish till about 12pm, and it wasn't finished at that time. There were still 2 more to be seen.
2. Tried to get in contact with the person on-call for a specialty, but no one answered the page. Finally, I managed to speak to the person after like 5 pages!
3. An awful cardiac arrest occured in the ward opposite mine. I heard the emergency buzzer and went across. I knew something wasn't right the moment I saw the nurse pushingthe cardiac arrest trolley. Arrest, yes, that can occur to any patients in the ward. But it was a visitor that actually arrested! She didn't make it in the end. Her mum, who was sick patient, was devastated. (Imagine, we had to get the mum out of her bed, so that her daughter can be resuscitated!!! Awful!)
4. An emergency admission from the diabetes clinic at 5pm?! Arggh....I mean I could, of course, let the person who is on-call from 5pm onwards to sort that patient out, but that would be pretty irresponsible, I think.
5. My friend was being pretty nippy to me today, dunno for what reasons...probably because she's been nipped at by the sister in her ward. But hey, do not need to lash it out on other people ok?
hmm...can't remember what else happened today. But it wasn't till nearly 7pm before I left the hospital. Cooked something really different tonight: aubergines, spinach, asparagus, chicken with salsa sauce?! How weird is that? Oh well, need to start doing some work. *yawn
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Hello Miss Sunshine!
Sunny sunny sunny!
I really needed the sun. I soaked myself under the hot sunshine today. It sort of lifted up my spirts a wee bit. Now, what did I do today? Ah yes, I treated myself by making a trip to the hair saloon. Finally, after months, I got my hair cut today. My head feels so much lighter. =)
With my new hair cut, I decided to head to town for some retail therapy (and to show off my new style-lah! =P). It wasn't like I bought anything. haha... I'm telling a lie. I bought a book by Mark Haddon (the writer of The Curious Incident of the Dog) and a pair of shorts. hehe. By the end of the day, I was actually sweating because the sun was burning, but I didn't care. You do not get such nice weather in Glasgow that often. Oh, I managed to eat an ice-cream too! It was my first time eating an ice-cream from the Skinny Cow range....and it was hell of a yummy low fat lolly!
I spent the whole day by myself. hmm...pathetic I know, but I actually enjoyed it. Having said that, I did not speak to anyone except to the cashiers and the hairdresser. I couldn't get hold of any friends....but its ok, peacefulness is a bliss. (damn it, hmm...I think I am not making sense here....ah well.)
I really needed the sun. I soaked myself under the hot sunshine today. It sort of lifted up my spirts a wee bit. Now, what did I do today? Ah yes, I treated myself by making a trip to the hair saloon. Finally, after months, I got my hair cut today. My head feels so much lighter. =)
With my new hair cut, I decided to head to town for some retail therapy (and to show off my new style-lah! =P). It wasn't like I bought anything. haha... I'm telling a lie. I bought a book by Mark Haddon (the writer of The Curious Incident of the Dog) and a pair of shorts. hehe. By the end of the day, I was actually sweating because the sun was burning, but I didn't care. You do not get such nice weather in Glasgow that often. Oh, I managed to eat an ice-cream too! It was my first time eating an ice-cream from the Skinny Cow range....and it was hell of a yummy low fat lolly!
I spent the whole day by myself. hmm...pathetic I know, but I actually enjoyed it. Having said that, I did not speak to anyone except to the cashiers and the hairdresser. I couldn't get hold of any friends....but its ok, peacefulness is a bliss. (damn it, hmm...I think I am not making sense here....ah well.)
Friday, June 08, 2007
Fed Up
Yes. I am fed up.
I know I am at the very bottom of the pyramid....but that doesn't mean I can pushed about.
Senior: Now why are there 6 patients for me to see and no one around to discuss the case with me?
Me: That's why I am here. (duh!)
Me: This patient is query for a CABG.
Senior: I do not know if this patient needs a CABG. Why are you asking me?
Me: This patient is query for a pacemaker insertion.
Senior: I do not know if this patient needs a pacemaker. I DON'T KNOW. (and threw the notes on to the trolley).
Now, what is the point of being a cardiology SHO3 if you do not know a single thing! Look, I know you are very busy, cardiology is short of staff, you have sick patients, but you know, there is NO excuse for you to be rude to other people.
Me: I have managed to get IV access in this patient. He really needs his IV fluid + potassium because his potassium is very low.
Nurse: Oh right. Ok.
.........4 hours later, IVs were not up yet. But as she was about to do it......
N: Oh dear, I was just about to put his IVs up, but he pulled the venflon out.
Me: Right. (at the same time thinking to myself, it should be up a loong time ago)
N: Would you mind putting another one in?
Me: Right ok. (I do not have a choice do I? I know you are busy...but you still managed to get your 2 tea breaks for the day...and what I was doing? Sorting out the whole ward all day without any food!)
N: Dr, this patient is query a UTI. I have not been able to send off a urine sample for culture.
Me: Well, try your best to get a sample.
N: Do you want to start him on antibiotics?
Me: He is already on it.
N: No he isnt.
Me: Yes he is. Let me show you.
N: Ahhh right...I see it now.
(arrghh....irritating!)
I know I am at the very bottom of the pyramid....but that doesn't mean I can pushed about.
Senior: Now why are there 6 patients for me to see and no one around to discuss the case with me?
Me: That's why I am here. (duh!)
Me: This patient is query for a CABG.
Senior: I do not know if this patient needs a CABG. Why are you asking me?
Me: This patient is query for a pacemaker insertion.
Senior: I do not know if this patient needs a pacemaker. I DON'T KNOW. (and threw the notes on to the trolley).
Now, what is the point of being a cardiology SHO3 if you do not know a single thing! Look, I know you are very busy, cardiology is short of staff, you have sick patients, but you know, there is NO excuse for you to be rude to other people.
Me: I have managed to get IV access in this patient. He really needs his IV fluid + potassium because his potassium is very low.
Nurse: Oh right. Ok.
.........4 hours later, IVs were not up yet. But as she was about to do it......
N: Oh dear, I was just about to put his IVs up, but he pulled the venflon out.
Me: Right. (at the same time thinking to myself, it should be up a loong time ago)
N: Would you mind putting another one in?
Me: Right ok. (I do not have a choice do I? I know you are busy...but you still managed to get your 2 tea breaks for the day...and what I was doing? Sorting out the whole ward all day without any food!)
N: Dr, this patient is query a UTI. I have not been able to send off a urine sample for culture.
Me: Well, try your best to get a sample.
N: Do you want to start him on antibiotics?
Me: He is already on it.
N: No he isnt.
Me: Yes he is. Let me show you.
N: Ahhh right...I see it now.
(arrghh....irritating!)
=D
I walked into the ward this morning looking straight at the bed where P was located.
I smiled from ear to ear the moment I saw him. He was sitting up having his breakfast, without any oxygen mask on. When I approached him, he even waved his hand at me and smiled. I was so relieved and overjoyed to see him well. =D He told me he was feeling GREAT! hehe.
I quickly walked into the doctor's room to announce to my seniors that P was still alive. We were all very happy that we have managed to treat him. =D
Today was a ok day. I finished work at about 6 pm and decided to walk home from work because the sun was just fantastic. I had made dinner plans with my friends, SzeLeng and Geak Poh. We had dinner at "The Two Fat Ladies." I have to say, although the food was abit pricey, it was really really good. We opened a bottle of white wine and sat down to chat for quite awhile. It was really nice.
Tonight was actually a pre-birthday dinner, as SzeLeng put it. hehe. Geak Poh bought me a box of chocolates and Sze Leng got me a really nice bag! In fact, it was a bag that I have been eyeing for quite sometime now. =) After the main course, we had a cup of coffee each. All of a sudden, the lights in the restaurant dimmed. I thought that the electricity supply has cut off or something. Then, the waitress who has been serving us started to walk towards our table with a light source behind a piece of paper. I thought she was holding a candle behind the paper to kind of brighten up our table. But to my surprise, a birthday cake was hidden behind the paper!!!
She said, "I heard it is someone's birthday today. So here is the cake. I would have sang a song for you but I really can't sing." I was really surprised. Speechless. Happy. Touched. Geak Poh bought me the cake. As the birthday gal, I made a wish and blew the candles. It was a sponge cake....yummy.
At the end of the day, I must be the happiest gal on earth. Glad to have great friends and they really cheered me up. =) Thank you guys....really appreciate it! Hugs to all of you!!!!
I smiled from ear to ear the moment I saw him. He was sitting up having his breakfast, without any oxygen mask on. When I approached him, he even waved his hand at me and smiled. I was so relieved and overjoyed to see him well. =D He told me he was feeling GREAT! hehe.
I quickly walked into the doctor's room to announce to my seniors that P was still alive. We were all very happy that we have managed to treat him. =D
Today was a ok day. I finished work at about 6 pm and decided to walk home from work because the sun was just fantastic. I had made dinner plans with my friends, SzeLeng and Geak Poh. We had dinner at "The Two Fat Ladies." I have to say, although the food was abit pricey, it was really really good. We opened a bottle of white wine and sat down to chat for quite awhile. It was really nice.
Tonight was actually a pre-birthday dinner, as SzeLeng put it. hehe. Geak Poh bought me a box of chocolates and Sze Leng got me a really nice bag! In fact, it was a bag that I have been eyeing for quite sometime now. =) After the main course, we had a cup of coffee each. All of a sudden, the lights in the restaurant dimmed. I thought that the electricity supply has cut off or something. Then, the waitress who has been serving us started to walk towards our table with a light source behind a piece of paper. I thought she was holding a candle behind the paper to kind of brighten up our table. But to my surprise, a birthday cake was hidden behind the paper!!!
She said, "I heard it is someone's birthday today. So here is the cake. I would have sang a song for you but I really can't sing." I was really surprised. Speechless. Happy. Touched. Geak Poh bought me the cake. As the birthday gal, I made a wish and blew the candles. It was a sponge cake....yummy.
At the end of the day, I must be the happiest gal on earth. Glad to have great friends and they really cheered me up. =) Thank you guys....really appreciate it! Hugs to all of you!!!!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Depressing Day
AAAAAAaaaaaHHHHHHhhhhhhhh.......................
AAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH..............................
Ok. Shut up Saw Ling.
I am feeling kind of ....errmm... dunno what word to use.... depressed? in a daze?
I dunno. Again, it is one of those days, in which I felt crap.
This is pretty weird, considering that I did not feel like that for patients in the gastro ward. Probably because I think most of their illnesses are self-inflicted. But in this cardio/endocrine/general medicine ward, it is really sad seeing people die in front of my eyes.
Today was a very great example. The events were as follows:
13:00 I inserted an IV cannula into P to prep him for his CT scan.
14:00 ATSP re: funny turn. P is known to have absence seizures and has diet-controlled diabetes. He was fasted from morning for a CT scan. When I approached him, he was acutely confused (he wasn't like that before). His vital signs were normal, and blood sugar level was 4.6. He seemed to be having a tiny seizure. Although I know that it is not THAT low, I decided that maybe I should pump some glucose into him, since he was fasted.
15:00 Patient's BM better, but he was more agitated. Whenever I asked if he was alright, he said, "Ok. Ok," and made funny lip-smacking sound. He was trying to climb out of bed. I thought this was weird. And decided to give him a tiny dose of lorazepam to calm him down.
15:30 Asked by the nurse to seem him again. This time P's face was purple. His oxygen saturations dropped to 83%. I started him on trauma mask and this only pushed his sats to about 92%. He became tachycardic, and an ECG showed ST depression on leads V4-V6, which were not present before. His chest sounded horrible and I thought he was in acute pulmonary oedema. I gave him a bolus of 80mg furosemide and he did get some diuresis from it. He was also in respiratory acidosis. I felt that I was out of depth. Because whatever I was doing obviously wasn't working. I tried to call my seniors, but the operator kept giving me the wrong page numbers. Finally, I got hold of my registrar, and he came in no time. He started P on a GTN infusion. When I left, P's condition was generally deteriorating. I think he is not going to make through tonight.
I find it really disturbing how a patient can just be so unwell within an hour or so. The fact that P was actually complaining to me about why he needed to be fasted for the scan, and how fed-up he was with hospitals, made this event a shocking and depressing experience. It is times like this that made me feel that I should not be a doctor. I feel depressed seeing him so blue and grey....sigh. =(
AAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH..............................
Ok. Shut up Saw Ling.
I am feeling kind of ....errmm... dunno what word to use.... depressed? in a daze?
I dunno. Again, it is one of those days, in which I felt crap.
This is pretty weird, considering that I did not feel like that for patients in the gastro ward. Probably because I think most of their illnesses are self-inflicted. But in this cardio/endocrine/general medicine ward, it is really sad seeing people die in front of my eyes.
Today was a very great example. The events were as follows:
13:00 I inserted an IV cannula into P to prep him for his CT scan.
14:00 ATSP re: funny turn. P is known to have absence seizures and has diet-controlled diabetes. He was fasted from morning for a CT scan. When I approached him, he was acutely confused (he wasn't like that before). His vital signs were normal, and blood sugar level was 4.6. He seemed to be having a tiny seizure. Although I know that it is not THAT low, I decided that maybe I should pump some glucose into him, since he was fasted.
15:00 Patient's BM better, but he was more agitated. Whenever I asked if he was alright, he said, "Ok. Ok," and made funny lip-smacking sound. He was trying to climb out of bed. I thought this was weird. And decided to give him a tiny dose of lorazepam to calm him down.
15:30 Asked by the nurse to seem him again. This time P's face was purple. His oxygen saturations dropped to 83%. I started him on trauma mask and this only pushed his sats to about 92%. He became tachycardic, and an ECG showed ST depression on leads V4-V6, which were not present before. His chest sounded horrible and I thought he was in acute pulmonary oedema. I gave him a bolus of 80mg furosemide and he did get some diuresis from it. He was also in respiratory acidosis. I felt that I was out of depth. Because whatever I was doing obviously wasn't working. I tried to call my seniors, but the operator kept giving me the wrong page numbers. Finally, I got hold of my registrar, and he came in no time. He started P on a GTN infusion. When I left, P's condition was generally deteriorating. I think he is not going to make through tonight.
I find it really disturbing how a patient can just be so unwell within an hour or so. The fact that P was actually complaining to me about why he needed to be fasted for the scan, and how fed-up he was with hospitals, made this event a shocking and depressing experience. It is times like this that made me feel that I should not be a doctor. I feel depressed seeing him so blue and grey....sigh. =(
No Connection
*sob *sob *sob
My wireless is not functioning!!! It was working fine on Monday night. Then all of a sudden, I lost my connection..... and since then, I can't get it back. I have tried reinstalling the whole router, but it didn't work. How?!
Looks like I might need to ask them to pull the connection into my room....arrghh....
Really can't live without my internet...I mean I can connect my PC directly to the modem. But this means that I can't use my PC in my room. This is not good at all, considering that I need to complete some online stuff this weekend!!! =(
I will try to sort it out tonight again. Wish me luck.
ps. note that I'm writing this from the pc in the doc's room. keke. (hiding away from tonnes of job in the ward).....
My wireless is not functioning!!! It was working fine on Monday night. Then all of a sudden, I lost my connection..... and since then, I can't get it back. I have tried reinstalling the whole router, but it didn't work. How?!
Looks like I might need to ask them to pull the connection into my room....arrghh....
Really can't live without my internet...I mean I can connect my PC directly to the modem. But this means that I can't use my PC in my room. This is not good at all, considering that I need to complete some online stuff this weekend!!! =(
I will try to sort it out tonight again. Wish me luck.
ps. note that I'm writing this from the pc in the doc's room. keke. (hiding away from tonnes of job in the ward).....
Monday, June 04, 2007
Delirium in The Morning!
I woke up this morning at 5.30 am with confusion.
What day is it today?
Is it Saturday or Sunday?
Am I supposed to go to work today?
Those 3 questions rang in my head early this morning. I sat up almost immediately the moment I opened my eyes. I looked right at the clock and felt slightly relieved that it was still early. My heart was pounding from the sudden burst of consciousness.
It took me about 2-3 minutes before I worked out that I have been working over the weekend and it is a Monday. Pathetic I would say.
What day is it today?
Is it Saturday or Sunday?
Am I supposed to go to work today?
Those 3 questions rang in my head early this morning. I sat up almost immediately the moment I opened my eyes. I looked right at the clock and felt slightly relieved that it was still early. My heart was pounding from the sudden burst of consciousness.
It took me about 2-3 minutes before I worked out that I have been working over the weekend and it is a Monday. Pathetic I would say.
...
Its past midnight, ie, it is early Monday morning.
My eyes are weary, my calves are aching, the soles of my feet are burning......
Tired. You know, sometimes you are so tired that you just can't fall asleep? Bizzare.
And I hate Mondays......time to go to bed. And have to be back at the hospital in less than 8 hours.
My eyes are weary, my calves are aching, the soles of my feet are burning......
Tired. You know, sometimes you are so tired that you just can't fall asleep? Bizzare.
And I hate Mondays......time to go to bed. And have to be back at the hospital in less than 8 hours.
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