After two weeks of nearly constant studying, I had hit a point where my brain was full. I could not have learned one more fact without it immediately oozing out my ears. I found myself just staring at black print in symbolic shapes on paper, not absorbing a word of it. My eyes hurt, my neck hurt, and needless to say, my head hurt. There were a few times when I truly didn't think I was going to survive.
But, although we lost a few good men out there (mostly hours of sleep and sanity), I made it through. And now after the most relaxing weekend imaginable (pictures to follow soon), I'm back. Back to the library, and back to the grindstone. But, surprisingly, I have somehow found more room in the ol' noggin. I'm wondering what got pushed out... I'll probably go to get gas this afternoon and discover that I no longer how to turn the pump on.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Monday, April 21, 2008
Saturday, April 19, 2008
It All Comes Down to Poop
As I spend my weekend delving into the word of pathology, discovering ever minute detail about nearly every disease the human race has ever been inflicted with, I have come to one clear conclusion. Half the planet must have diarrhea.
Okay, maybe that's exagerrating, but at least 95% of the people in the hospital do. I'm surprised the floor isn't covered with it. Or you don't have to dodge flying diarrhea as you walk down the halls.
Not only do I find myself greeted with diarrhea under every Clinical Manifestations heading, but it must be adequately described. Here are some adjectives (and if you are a medical student, as you read them the name of the causitive organism/disease process will miraculously appear in your head):
"frothy," "particularly foul-smelling with bits of undigested food," "like rice water," "bloody and mucoid," "partially formed stools," "coffee grounds"
Heck, I don't even think I know what rice water is.
The other 5% of the people in the hospital aren't blessed with normal bowels however, they're just suffering from obstruction, anticholinergic syndrome, or opiate overdose and they're constipated.
Okay, maybe that's exagerrating, but at least 95% of the people in the hospital do. I'm surprised the floor isn't covered with it. Or you don't have to dodge flying diarrhea as you walk down the halls.
Not only do I find myself greeted with diarrhea under every Clinical Manifestations heading, but it must be adequately described. Here are some adjectives (and if you are a medical student, as you read them the name of the causitive organism/disease process will miraculously appear in your head):
"frothy," "particularly foul-smelling with bits of undigested food," "like rice water," "bloody and mucoid," "partially formed stools," "coffee grounds"
Heck, I don't even think I know what rice water is.
The other 5% of the people in the hospital aren't blessed with normal bowels however, they're just suffering from obstruction, anticholinergic syndrome, or opiate overdose and they're constipated.
Friday, April 18, 2008
No Time to Celebrate
I have just finished a week of exams. Normally this would mean joyous outbursts of jubilation, tickertape parades, and enough beer to drown a cat.
Not this time.
I'm in the library, on a Friday afternoon, gearing up for Round Two.
Not this time.
I'm in the library, on a Friday afternoon, gearing up for Round Two.
Monday, April 14, 2008
My Best Friend
If you're a product of the 90s like me, then this catchy commercial jingle will ring a bell deep in your childhood subconscious:
My Buddy, My Buddy
Wherever I go, he goes
My Buddy, My Buddy
I'll teach him everything I know
My Buddy, My Buddy
My Buddy and me!
Back then, this infectious tune brought images of three-foot tall Chucky-esque dolls complete with blue jeans, collared pullover, and a baseball cap, that could finally give form to your imaginary friend. Although I was never so lucky in my childhood as to own a My Buddy doll, or his counterpart Kid Sister, that void has finally been filled. Now I have a First Aid Review Book.
First Aid is the M2's red badge of courage; we carry it around both proudly as if to say "Behold! I am M2!" and grudingly, like a heavy burden that only we can bear. Everywhere I go, school, library, dinner, gym, my First Aid won't be far behind. It is covered in sweat, coffee stains, water damage, a tear or two, and even a little bit of blood, thanks to that period of time when Lanie's tail liked to bleed on everything. I will be surprised if my First Aid makes it to the Step. By then it will be probably taped together, or just a box full of loose pages. Oh, what a bittersweet day May 29th will be when I have to say goodbye to my dear friend...
My Buddy, My Buddy
Wherever I go, he goes
My Buddy, My Buddy
I'll teach him everything I know
My Buddy, My Buddy
My Buddy and me!
Back then, this infectious tune brought images of three-foot tall Chucky-esque dolls complete with blue jeans, collared pullover, and a baseball cap, that could finally give form to your imaginary friend. Although I was never so lucky in my childhood as to own a My Buddy doll, or his counterpart Kid Sister, that void has finally been filled. Now I have a First Aid Review Book.
First Aid is the M2's red badge of courage; we carry it around both proudly as if to say "Behold! I am M2!" and grudingly, like a heavy burden that only we can bear. Everywhere I go, school, library, dinner, gym, my First Aid won't be far behind. It is covered in sweat, coffee stains, water damage, a tear or two, and even a little bit of blood, thanks to that period of time when Lanie's tail liked to bleed on everything. I will be surprised if my First Aid makes it to the Step. By then it will be probably taped together, or just a box full of loose pages. Oh, what a bittersweet day May 29th will be when I have to say goodbye to my dear friend...
Friday, April 11, 2008
A Place To Call Home
With Jackson being the home of Tougaloo College, Jackson State Univeristy, University of MS Medical Center, Belhaven College, and Milsaps College, you'd think you wouldn't be able to swing a dead cat without hitting eight to ten suitable places to study. Wrong. Let's review...
UMC Library- You could cut the stress in the air with a knife. Even if you feel good about an upcoming exam, the panic is infectious. Plus, distractions (or maybe just irritation) abound when you're surrounded by the same people you've been around for the last two years day in and day out.
Barnes & Nobles, County Line Road- Acceptable. Not the best coffee, but the acoustics allowed for less irritation toward the non-studying patrons. Plus, large tables and electric outlets were more numerous than fleas on a junkyard dog. Unfortunately, closed for business.
Willie Morris Public Library- Minus the occasional deaf geriatric screaming at the clerks trying to get his/her library card replaced, overall very peaceful. Coffee is available, although it might be drink at your own risk. Downside, the place has converted to the way of the Amish and closes when the sun goes down.
Starbucks- Not a single table with a radius larger than 12" and even these have cushy chairs that aren't suitable for causing pressure ulcers while studying. The pain reminds you that you're alive, and you need to keep studying.
Cups- Good coffee, best in the city if you ask me. Small though with terrible acoustics, anyone's business is now your business. Also, they only upgraded to the 20" table to get a small one-up on Starbucks. The rumor is there is a secret "library" perfect for studying hidden away in the back, but I'm pretty sure there are more people camped out waiting than for the premier of Star Wars Episode I.
Barnes & Nobles, Renaissance Colony- This new location does not even compare to its former glory. Although the cafe area is larger, the promise of Cheesecake factory treats can not overcome the fact that all the tables are two-seaters and there is only one electrical outlet in sight, which, ironically, isn't even near one of the tables. The few larger, "study" tables scattered throughout the store are electrical islands, unless you bring a 100'+ extension cord.
Borders- Adequately sized tables are usually easy to come by, although only one offers the promise of electricity. But, be sure to get there early, this is a haven for junior high kids drinking Javakulas with extra whipped cream while waiting for Mom to come pick them up and Tuesday night knitting club. Also, the staff (not deserving of the title "barista") are prone to think the world is their stage and their shift is an 8hour comedy show for the patrons enjoyment.
UMC Library- You could cut the stress in the air with a knife. Even if you feel good about an upcoming exam, the panic is infectious. Plus, distractions (or maybe just irritation) abound when you're surrounded by the same people you've been around for the last two years day in and day out.
Barnes & Nobles, County Line Road- Acceptable. Not the best coffee, but the acoustics allowed for less irritation toward the non-studying patrons. Plus, large tables and electric outlets were more numerous than fleas on a junkyard dog. Unfortunately, closed for business.
Willie Morris Public Library- Minus the occasional deaf geriatric screaming at the clerks trying to get his/her library card replaced, overall very peaceful. Coffee is available, although it might be drink at your own risk. Downside, the place has converted to the way of the Amish and closes when the sun goes down.
Starbucks- Not a single table with a radius larger than 12" and even these have cushy chairs that aren't suitable for causing pressure ulcers while studying. The pain reminds you that you're alive, and you need to keep studying.
Cups- Good coffee, best in the city if you ask me. Small though with terrible acoustics, anyone's business is now your business. Also, they only upgraded to the 20" table to get a small one-up on Starbucks. The rumor is there is a secret "library" perfect for studying hidden away in the back, but I'm pretty sure there are more people camped out waiting than for the premier of Star Wars Episode I.
Barnes & Nobles, Renaissance Colony- This new location does not even compare to its former glory. Although the cafe area is larger, the promise of Cheesecake factory treats can not overcome the fact that all the tables are two-seaters and there is only one electrical outlet in sight, which, ironically, isn't even near one of the tables. The few larger, "study" tables scattered throughout the store are electrical islands, unless you bring a 100'+ extension cord.
Borders- Adequately sized tables are usually easy to come by, although only one offers the promise of electricity. But, be sure to get there early, this is a haven for junior high kids drinking Javakulas with extra whipped cream while waiting for Mom to come pick them up and Tuesday night knitting club. Also, the staff (not deserving of the title "barista") are prone to think the world is their stage and their shift is an 8hour comedy show for the patrons enjoyment.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The Final Hoorah
The last seven months of M2 Preceptor-ship has finally drawn to a close with the completion of my witnessed H&P. After countless times of silently standing in the corner of the room while my preceptor engaged patients, asking them questions and performing physical exams, the tables were turned. It was my show. Unfortunately, this is only my second true full history and physical, so it wasn't quite the moment of victory it sounds like. I was sweating like Michael Jackson at a tee-ball game.
But, I pushed through. Yes, I forgot to do things. Yes, I forgot to ask important questions. But, its over and that's all that matters right now. And, my preceptor seemed fairly impressed. Maybe because I did a good job, or maybe because he was amazed I did decent despite the lack of instruction he gave. Either way, I'm one step closer to being an M3.
But, I pushed through. Yes, I forgot to do things. Yes, I forgot to ask important questions. But, its over and that's all that matters right now. And, my preceptor seemed fairly impressed. Maybe because I did a good job, or maybe because he was amazed I did decent despite the lack of instruction he gave. Either way, I'm one step closer to being an M3.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Words of the Day
phud-dy dud-dy [phuhd-dee duhd-dee] noun, one who possesses a PhD degree, and therefore has no understanding of clinical medicine; lectures are known to be composed purely of useless basic science knowledge that will never be of help to a practicing physician
mud-phud [muhd-fuhd] noun, one who possesses both an MD and a PhD degree, therefore they once knew actual clinical medicine but have long forgotten it in order to barricade themselves in a laboratory doing research; known for making outdated and ridiculous comments, for example "spider bites are sustained by rolling over in bed, putting on socks and shoes, and carrying boxes out of a dark basement"
mud-phud [muhd-fuhd] noun, one who possesses both an MD and a PhD degree, therefore they once knew actual clinical medicine but have long forgotten it in order to barricade themselves in a laboratory doing research; known for making outdated and ridiculous comments, for example "spider bites are sustained by rolling over in bed, putting on socks and shoes, and carrying boxes out of a dark basement"
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
They Say Its My Birthday...
Today is the 3rd anniversary of my 21st birthday (yeah, that's how I'm going to think about it... you do the math.)
It has started off quite well. The Cutest Boy in the World came over this morning, brought some staple groceries (milk, eggs, cheese) that I lost due to power outages, and made me breakfast of cinnamon rolls and scrambled eggs. From this alone he might have elevated himself to status of The Cutest Boy in Solar System. Then he gave me just what I wanted, and asked for (gotta love a boy that listens), a pretty cookbook and a food processor. This is worthy of being called The Cutest Boy in the Universe. Yes, to some this might sound extremely domestic, and I realize that it is, but cooking is my hobby. So, homemade pesto for everyone!
Then, tonight I think my family (minus Daddy, but he'll be with us in spirit) is going to PFs... Oh I love birthdays...
It has started off quite well. The Cutest Boy in the World came over this morning, brought some staple groceries (milk, eggs, cheese) that I lost due to power outages, and made me breakfast of cinnamon rolls and scrambled eggs. From this alone he might have elevated himself to status of The Cutest Boy in Solar System. Then he gave me just what I wanted, and asked for (gotta love a boy that listens), a pretty cookbook and a food processor. This is worthy of being called The Cutest Boy in the Universe. Yes, to some this might sound extremely domestic, and I realize that it is, but cooking is my hobby. So, homemade pesto for everyone!
Then, tonight I think my family (minus Daddy, but he'll be with us in spirit) is going to PFs... Oh I love birthdays...
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Jack-town Twister.. and that's not a fancy new martini
First off, me and mine (meaning the Loo and The Cutest Boy in the World) have survived The Storm of 2008 unscathed.
But, Friday, I knew according to the Weather Channel's Local on the 8s that Jackson was expecting some severe isolated thunderstorms. So, I went home at lunch to let the girl out before the rain came. After eating, I sat there studying some whatnot. All of a sudden, like God spilled his Diet Coke on the sun, it got real dark. The power went out and the wind started blowing in sideways. I watched all this from my back living room, feeling overcome with the feeling of "this ain't good." Well, I had to run out to my shed to close the door that I had left unlocked and on the run back I was getting hit by pea-sized hail. "This ain't good at all." In the next 5-10 minutes, I stood frozen, watching with bated breath to see what Mother Nature was about to do. But, almost as suddenly as it began, the spookiness ended and it merely started to rain.
I was expected at clinic at 1, so I collected my effects and headed to the car. The scene that met me was staggering. Trees were uprooted everwhere, or snapped off on top of houses and power lines. My house was actually the first on my street that did not contain a new pine tree fixture in the living room. But, being the dedicated medical student that I am, I drove under downed power lines, around trees and roof debri, and through nonfunctioning traffic lights from my house to clinic. Of course, clinic also was without power and I was told to go home after 40minutes of just sitting around wasting oxygen.
Supposedly, a tornado passed directly over my house. Reports say that the damage was worse than what hit Jackson during Katrina. All I know is that God Himself protected my home that day.
But, Friday, I knew according to the Weather Channel's Local on the 8s that Jackson was expecting some severe isolated thunderstorms. So, I went home at lunch to let the girl out before the rain came. After eating, I sat there studying some whatnot. All of a sudden, like God spilled his Diet Coke on the sun, it got real dark. The power went out and the wind started blowing in sideways. I watched all this from my back living room, feeling overcome with the feeling of "this ain't good." Well, I had to run out to my shed to close the door that I had left unlocked and on the run back I was getting hit by pea-sized hail. "This ain't good at all." In the next 5-10 minutes, I stood frozen, watching with bated breath to see what Mother Nature was about to do. But, almost as suddenly as it began, the spookiness ended and it merely started to rain.
I was expected at clinic at 1, so I collected my effects and headed to the car. The scene that met me was staggering. Trees were uprooted everwhere, or snapped off on top of houses and power lines. My house was actually the first on my street that did not contain a new pine tree fixture in the living room. But, being the dedicated medical student that I am, I drove under downed power lines, around trees and roof debri, and through nonfunctioning traffic lights from my house to clinic. Of course, clinic also was without power and I was told to go home after 40minutes of just sitting around wasting oxygen.
Supposedly, a tornado passed directly over my house. Reports say that the damage was worse than what hit Jackson during Katrina. All I know is that God Himself protected my home that day.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
A Lot to Learn
Yesterday I donned my dreaded short coat and my "dressed to the coat" clothes, and headed to 5 South to interview a patient. My first challenge was to find said 5 South, which, this being my second time in the new hospital, was a bit more difficult than it sounds. Then, I went in to do a full H&P on my patient. It took an hour and a half, and I still walked out and realized I had skipped a lot of stuff (checking lymph nodes, CN VIII, asking about allergies, etc). So, here I am, hopefully going to be a M3 in a few short months, and I can't get a simple history and physical on a very nice lady with colon cancer right. I sure hope this all "comes to me" soon...
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
A Confession
The following post might be offensive to any devout sports fan.
This year I did not fill out a NCAA bracket.
Oh, it gets worse than that.
This year I have not watched a single NCAA basketball game.
Wait for it...
This year I do not even know who is in the Elite Eight, Final Four, or whatever level the tournament is at now.
This year I did not fill out a NCAA bracket.
Oh, it gets worse than that.
This year I have not watched a single NCAA basketball game.
Wait for it...
This year I do not even know who is in the Elite Eight, Final Four, or whatever level the tournament is at now.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Toad Strangler
As the weather warms up to the level of palpable humidity that defines Mississippi summers, my goal is to start talking the Loo for her daily walks early in the morning before the heat sets up shop. This plan seems perfect, except for the early morning part. Needless to say, I won't be winning any "Early Bird Gets the Worm" awards anytime soon. This morning, however, was the exception. The alarm went off, and 5:30am, I'm out the door with Lanie in tow (or maybe more accurately with myself in tow, but let's not get stuck on specifics.)
The first thing I noticed was the occasional distant flash of lightning followed by low rumbles of thunder. "No big deal," I thought. "Lanie needs to learn to handle thunder anyway." And she was fine. Then, it started to sprinkle. So, we stopped in the middle of the road while I evaluated the situation.
Lightning. Rain. Metal choke collar.
We needed to head back home. No sooner than this thought had taken shape in my mind, the bottom dropped out. Every ounce of rain the meteorologists have been teasing us with for the last week fell out of the sky. The Loo hates the rain, and I'm fairly certain had I let go of her leash she would have headed straight home, but the fear of her just heading to the first carport and refusing to budge loomed in front of me. So, we jogged home, soaked to the bone.
I think maybe that was divine intervention telling me this early morning thing should be kept for the birds.
The first thing I noticed was the occasional distant flash of lightning followed by low rumbles of thunder. "No big deal," I thought. "Lanie needs to learn to handle thunder anyway." And she was fine. Then, it started to sprinkle. So, we stopped in the middle of the road while I evaluated the situation.
Lightning. Rain. Metal choke collar.
We needed to head back home. No sooner than this thought had taken shape in my mind, the bottom dropped out. Every ounce of rain the meteorologists have been teasing us with for the last week fell out of the sky. The Loo hates the rain, and I'm fairly certain had I let go of her leash she would have headed straight home, but the fear of her just heading to the first carport and refusing to budge loomed in front of me. So, we jogged home, soaked to the bone.
I think maybe that was divine intervention telling me this early morning thing should be kept for the birds.
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