ICU Clinical Week 1

Last week was my first start of critical care nursing. I definitely had my reservations, but I have to say that I actually enjoyed it. It was devastating to see some of the cases that came through the door. Its not for the week at heart because these people are sick. In two days we saw horrible car accidents, cancer patients, surgeries gone bad, suicides, and codes! As interesting as it is, you REALLY have to understand how the body works in ICU because a patients status can change in seconds. However, the team works so well together and surprisingly enough, the cardiologists are so nice - well at least at this hospital because Ive met some real pricks.

I got to see two of the coolest things right before my eyes. My patient went into respiratory acidosis with the classic ABG findings!! But even more electric, I got to see a live cardiac catherization to place a stent in someones coronary arteries to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the heart.



It was absolutely amazing!! I thought you might be interested to see what it looks like. The heart is an amazing pump! Enjoy