Ode to the Power of Cow Dung

I was reading Happy News this morning, and came across this article. Wow! Read the complete article, they even extract vanillan from this wondrous poo to add fragrance to our shampoo and such! I read snippets of the article to My Love Dave, and I was all like "eewwww! I don't know that I want to smear vanilla scented shampoo through my hair, knowing that it came from cow dung!". Dave pointed out that I probably already do.... Sad but true...... who knows where those pleasing aromatic scents that we love so much REALLY come from...... In any case, it's nice to know that there is yet another source for auto fuel.
I almost wish I lived in a more rural area, and could ride a horse! More fun, less maintenance. How much healthier we would all be with the increased exercise and fresh air! The pollution levels would plummet, asthmatic children could play outside without going into smog induced respiratory arrest! Think about the reprieve from noise pollution!
Sure we would have to get up earlier to get to work, but without that extra $20,000 expense every few years for a new automobile, plus the thousands of dollars for insurance and maintenance! Geez people could spend more quality time with their familes, they would need to make less money to keep up with the Jones's!
How exciting, I think I almost have myself convinced!
Oh well, what a nice dream. Have a beautiful weekend all!

My first day as a student at Carteret General Hospital

Yesterday was the first official day as a CNA 1 student at the hospital. Keiko and I were paired up to shadow the CNA on duty on the 2nd floor. Keiko and I were happy to get a little experience taking vital signs, making beds (changing linens, and interacting with the patients seemed to make them and us feel better. The pace was a little slower than I expected. The staff were friendly and helpful, but I still noticed a few things that weren't done according to procedure. I don't really want to go into it here, because I don't know who might read this post. I will say that the individuals in question have probably transported a few unfriendly germs home to their families by letting basic infection control fall by the wayside. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience, and I think I will probably seek employment at this hospital once I am certified.
The only down side I see is the 12 hour shifts. They are great for the alternating long weekends, but are going to be very difficult when I start my CNA 2 class. The shifts run from 7 to 7 (am/pm) 2 days on, 3 off, 3 on, 2 off. When classes begin for CNA 2, they are 8 hour classes, one day a week for appx. 4 months. I just can't see how I'll manage to work a 12 hour shift, and then sit in a class for 8 hours, knowing that I have 4 hours to sleep before repeating my 12 hour shift the following day. Fortunately, The hospital is directly across the street from the college building that I will attend classes in. Who knows, I may be able to get PRN work for a few months, and work 8 hour shifts until I achieve my CNA 2. I'm just so anxious to get started! I can't even apply for the job until I take my final exam in April!

Still Enjoying CNA Class

Okay, so much has happened since January when my classes began. I've learned theory of being a Nurse Assistant, as well as the skills of the trade. Some skills are less pleasant than others, but all are necessary for patients to get well. Tomorrow I start my clinical aspect of the certification. Three weeks at Carteret General Hospital, then, three weeks at Britthaven Nursing Home in Newport, NC.

I took a few group pictures of my classmates, and one with me, and my friend Keiko. I will post them shortly!

Well, I'm going to try and blog every day for the next few weeks, to record what is happening throughout the clinical learning experience.