February MS PHARM Diary.

 

• February hours: 6.30 hours
• Spring Semester Cumulative: 11.30 hours.

Figure 1.

Figure 2.

                                                    

Figure 3.

Figure 1 is from the intubation demonstration elementary students saw given by Ms. Laura, one of the sweetest respiratory therapists who also helps run the cessation clinic. 

Figure 2 is another demonstration of a sheep lung. It shows students the vast difference between a smoking lung and a non-smoking lung. On the left is the smoker's lung with pneumothorax. Students were able to pump the lungs and see the diameter differences. 

Figure 3 is a collage of high school students visiting the Sims center. First, the top left image shows students using the Acapella device, which helps remove mucus from the airways. Just to the right of that image are students watching an intubation. Directly under that image is our very own Tiana showing off the VEST, which uses High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation to remove mucus from the bronchial walls. We were told the craziest color mucus she had seen was dark green and smelled horrible from Pseudomonas. In the bottom left image, two of the funniest students are testing out the infrared thermometers. In the bottom right image, two different students are using an infrared thermometer in the ear. 

Just two days leading student education activities and it was one of the most rewarding experiences of the semester thus far. I got to get hands-on experience with younger and older children. What was most astounding was how old they thought I was and how cool they saw a hospital being. As adults, we sometimes don't see the fun in the unknown anymore, especially in hospital settings, so seeing their joy was refreshing. And it was a blast to see them learn and grow in this environment. 

This past month has passed quickly. I've savored every moment of the clinical opportunities and shadowing of various medical specialties. The topics covered in the exams were easy to digest. My favorite was Local and General Anesthesia. My passion for Anesthesia and the art of medicine made it stand out. 

The remaining two months are filled with anticipation of Mardi Gras and Graduation! As I tie up loose ends, I eagerly look forward to our extended break in March, which promises rest, rejuvenation, and many, many, many laughs with friends.