With all of Dallas, Irving, Las Colinas, and every other public school district opening their doors this past Monday, we've seen a markedly reduced patient flow. Last week it was swamped with shots and checkups, now there's a bit of a lull before we get slammed with the viruses kids share with each other. Strep throat is starting to show up already, so I'm now proficient at running those tests in our closet/laboratory/side room. Not quite as proficient in gagging the poor kid with the swab to get their throat sample, but that's probably because I'm worried too much about hurting the child or getting puked on. Another one of those things that becomes second nature with practice, I'm told.
Speaking of practice, I'm slowly getting better at ears! I've checked... geez I don't know how many by now. Probably an even number. Anyways, my preceptor Tamara has been really great at fetching me from wherever I am to come see a really good bulging ear infection, a classic bacterial strep throat, roseola rashes, and all those good "textbook" cases. Our patients have been really gracious with me as well, just glad to have someone care for their child I suppose. And if you're a classmate reading this, get your spanish ready! There's LOTS of it. It's just another lesson in being comfortable in being uncomfortable. But emersion into the language and having to figure out a way to communicate has really been helping me learn quickly. And not just medical words like we were taught in class, but mostly the little connector words that piece together a thought. It's a steep learning curve, but there's always nurses and MA's that are fluent and helpful if I'm really in a bind.
Amanda's birthday was last week, and she was surprised by a visit from her mom and sister! Gifts you ask? Shoes, James Avery, yellow roses delivered, a book, a card, and the secret about her visitors. (I think that's everything). Her first birthday as a married couple... hope I did ok! :) Her family coming up was great timing as well, since her classroom needed a few extra hands to get everything set up for the start of school. This week has been long and rough on her, but I think it's been better than last year. First weeks always stink. We've both been so busy it's almost like we've barely seen one another. sigh... Only a day and a half til the weekend!
Alright, gotta go! A Mazda dealership is giving away Rangers tickets for test drives! No brainer? You betcha!
grace & peace
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