Semester Two, Week Four

I woke up Tuesday with my dreaded knee pain. In case you know, or even if you don't know, I have chronic knee pain, which interferes with everything in my life.

A patient commented to me, when she saw me leaning forward to tie my loose shoe "I used to do that too, and then I ruined my back and had to have surgery."

Well, kneeling down is an excruciating option, so I plan my time to remain upright as often as possible, trying to avoid the pain.

I had physical therapy all during Christmas break, but according to my orthopedic doctor, surgery is [likely] in my future.

This week, I was told by my assigned patient that I am a liar, have a non-comforting presence, and am doing everything wrong. It was like the nicer I was, the meaner they got. Each insult they hurled my way hit me like a ton of rocks. There I was trying so hard, and there they were shredding me to pieces. And the thing is, I was doing everything in my power to make sure they were comfortable. It made me realize: nursing is not going to be a cake-walk.

We had a lecturer this week who is not known for their gift of teaching. About half the class left, but what really annoyed me is that some ladies in my class decided to post statuses on Facebook making fun of said lecturer, and uploading photos, detailing how they were skipping class. I find it disrespectful to mock anyone on facebook, or on any other social forum. It just really bugged me.

This week, thanks to all the new knowledge that I have acquired, I have diagnosed myself with a DVT, CAD, and intermittent claudication in association with PVD. I may also mention that I am insane, and am loving all the information that is thrown at me daily.

I was successful in passing my Med/Surg exam today, thank God. A B is fine with me these days; an A would be prime, but I can settle for a B. As long as I pass, I am fine.

I heard once that you can forget about having a life outside of nursing school once second semester begins. I am finding this to be more true with each week that goes by. The time is flying by, I am studying like a maniac, and pretty much have no extra "spare" time. Even while having dinner with a classmate last night, we discussed nursing the entire time. I am blessed to have new-found friends to share this journey with.

Blessed.