Sixth Day

Today was special. I may have saved my first life!

For the first part of class, we talked about different methods of airway management. I had been on the verge of tears all day. It was just a sad day.

Then we practiced assessments.

There is this lady in class - maybe 34 - who is always upbeat. She's way cool. So, when we were asked to split into groups, and she made eye contact with ME, I was freaking stoked. Bonus? She's competent. So, we practiced assessments with another girl, switching between the roles of medic, patient, and grader. She was my patient first.

After sizing up the scene, checking ABCs, and taking a history, it was time to take her vitals. Her blood pressure was 150/110. When the AEMT teacher's aide came by, she mentioned to him the number, and he told me to take it again. This time it was worse:150/120. His interest was piqued. With my confidence dwindling, he checked it as well. Same result.

Then she began to panic a bit. It was so unlike her. She held back tears, apologizing. She complained that she's seen enough doctors in her life. She'd received bad news relating to her past battle with cancer this week. She was scared, and making herself worse with worry.

On one hand, I was sad for her. I hugged her and assured her we didn't think less of her for being worried. On the other hand, I couldn't help but feel that, in some small way, I may have just helped save her life.

I mean, maybe it had something to do with lack or food or water - like a lot of women. She's had heart issues before. But a bp that high could cause a stroke. Who knows? I probably never will.

So that was an exciting day, and I am happy to report I am no longer on the verge of tears.