My Story..My Life...

Last Friday marked the end of my one-month placement in AH. Generally, it had a fulfilling experience because it opened my mind to the kind of nursing system we have in Singapore. With the opportunity to compare it to the nursing system in the UK, I am supposed to bring the good things of the system in the UK and see how we can implement it in Singapore. Easier said than done because I have to take into consideration the cultural aspect of patients in Singapore.

When asked which ward/dept do I like the best, I never hesitated to answer Ward 5 and DEM. Even though Ward 5 is a medical ward, where most people associate it with bringing bedpan to the patients or bringing them to the toilet most of the time, but it is in Ward 5 where I gain most knowledge. Thanks to the regular talks and nursing ward rounds they have. Very informative and thought-provoking indeed! Although I saw a lot more procedures done in MICU, such as intubation, insertion of CVP line and arterial line, CRRT etc, I am quite disappointed that students do not have the opportunity for more hands-on activities. It can be boring to just turn up everyday and observe. The attitude of the consultant in MICU is also questionable. DEM was fun with all the different stations (I love the swipecard!)though I seemed to miss all the action. During the first day in DEM, there was a resus case but the dept sister was doing orientation with me. I was so shocked when she opened the door of the resus room to find that a resuscitation was going on. Then again, on my last day in DEM, I missed out on another resus case because I had to go meet the Director of Nursing in AH. Apparently, that guy was shocked six times with futile attempts so it became a coroner's case. Bad luck, not only do I have to endure the meeting (I was really nervous meeting her!), I also missed out on the action :(

The placement this time really had a big impact because the people I met may become my future colleagues. It is different because back in the UK, if I encounter nasty staff in a placement area, at least I would not be meeting them again. However, I am not able to avoid anyone from AH, unless they are not moving to KTPH. Haiz...

- i just wanted to say ...# ;