Human Pin Cushion

Today we are evaluating the clinical evidence of pap smears & the technique of conization of a cancerous cervix. With a few STD's thrown in for good measure and plenty of moist looking pictures.
Interesting?
sort of
Fascinating?
not really.

The reality of Seasonal Affect Disorder coupled with the monotinous drone of 8months of 40 hours a week in class is beginning to take it's toll. My mind wanders to the dream-like lives of friends engaged in wonderful social activities involving healthy realtionships, new pregnancies, grandbabies born, house warming parties, super bowl tickets, Colorado winter weddings and family birthday parties.

(I haven't heard a word the professor has said in the last 10 minutes.)

I turned 30 last weekend- in the midst of an uneventful holiday weekend - with me hitting traffic on the way to church - then studying for an exam in the afternoon.
Sad?
Definitely.
Surprised?
not really.
Seems to fit the winter 2006 style.

But there is one aspect of school that has recently kept us on our toes and the adrenaline rushing through our veins.
We have become human pin cushions.
Our clinical skills course requires us to learn the basics of IV insertion and venous puncture. Using one another to practice.
We arrived in class last thursday and were promptly told to sit down and bare our arms. No preparation or time to run. And most of the class has never handled a needle before - and do I need to remind you that IV's are a 1.5 inch long plastic catheter shoved up your small delicate veins!!!
IN YOUR HAND!!!!
Stories abound in this arena - with my first insertion not even entering a vein eliciting many loud responses from my partner. Another classmate shared with us a small picture of what she must have been like in labor. Wow.
But it was all very helpful and "empowering".

(I pray that I NEVER have to insert an IV in an actual patient)
Ever.