Working all weekend and fireworks

First weekend 21-22nd july off not working early's Monday to Friday . Then trust me to be working both Saturday and Sunday. At least one good thing it is slightly quieter on a weekend and you feel you are not rushing round as much.
On Saturday after work I had been invited to a Christmas party with Nat. Which seemed strange in July but most places in Australia seem to do. But unfortunately decided against as would take a hour to get there and didn't want late night as on early Sunday. So instead I met Leigh and his friend Nicole at darling harbour and went to pancake on the rocks again. This time we shared a starter nachos and wedges then I had a sweet pancake. Think I definitely preferred the sweet one and got doggie bag. Then afterwards we went to watch the fireworks at darling harbour. It was very busy and there were good only lasted about 15minutes but was free. Only took me 3 weekends to actually go see them and was definitely worth the wait.
On Sunday after work I spoke home but unfortunately the correction wasn't very good. Don't know if it's because am using free Wi-fi or mum and dads connection not the best. So tomorrow mum going to try at Sharon's to see if any better. As last time spoke from Sharon's was ok.

Kate leaving to UK

Well Kate's last day in Sydney today Friday 20th July. So I had said since it was my day off I would help her with suitcases on train. Luckily for us Hisako was on a late so gave us a lift to train station. Was quite entertaining trying to get luggage in her jeep as wouldn't fit through door so had to unzip back. Once at train station was fairly easy got train to central then Kate caught train to airport was a direct train. Which at least was one good thing and she only had 3stops before hers. Was nice meeting Kate and definitely made my first few weeks more bearable.
After leaving Kate I got train to circular quay and had a wander round. Went to Opera House to see if anything interesting on. Just for Laughs is touring in October so that would be good to see. Then I went to French connection shop at the quays and bought a top, cardigan and dress all in sale. Was also tempted to but a star jumper but wasn't sure on the shoulder pads.
Then I went to meet Leigh at the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) which was about 2ish for afternoon tea. Went to first place and unfortunately had sold out of scones. So then found another place 'Cellinis' and ordered scones. Was very nice but I was expecting fruit scones like would get in England. But their were more like brioche with jam and cream. I also didn't realise that the QVB had 2 marvellous hanging clocks. Which makes the QVB a magnificent historical landmark and shopping paradise. The Royal clock resembles balmoral castle and is the worlds largest animated turret click. Whilst the Great Australia clock depicts 33 scenes from australia's history.
I then went to price up flights and it was what I was expecting between $1500 and $2000. Didn't book as want to have a think and look on Emirates website to see what offers there have. As I know I like Emirates do might aswell pay abit extra for what I like and know us good.

Third week of work

Well now into my third of week and can tell I have now finished my 2 weeks of earlies as on a late today on wednesday 18th July. The lates seem alot more relaxed as not as many as people around but still lots to as the aptients appear to have blood products more often in afternoon. Our lates start at 1.30 have hand over then we usually have an in service for abour 30 minutes which could be on someone talking about a new product or staff member doing presentation. as every staff member has to do a presentaion think mine is not til November, so will have to get deciding what to do mine on. After in service we check the S4 and S8 drugs then go for afternoon tea so back in time for 3.30 when earlies finish. Our lates are til 10pm so is half hour extra than England so we do 40hr weeks but get an extra day off a month.
I also found out today that I can have my annual leave for november the director of nursing said yes so will have to start looking at flights next. So my annual leave will be from 31st October finishing nights that morning til 8th November have to be back in work for 9th November. So it will literally be a flying visit home for about a week if that, but will be nice to see everyone and my niece may be crawling by then.
Then on the thursday i was on a early nice late/ early my favourite shift I dont think. At least one good thing I dont have far to travel to work at the moment only 5 minute walk if that. Since I am now going home hopefully in November for friends wedding going to see if I can stay on staff accommodation til September so I can safe abit of money. On a good note was also pay day today and get paid every fortnight, which is nice.
After work I met Emily and we went to Rhodes to but Kate's leaving present as she leaves tomoorow so we got her some lindt chocolate, as we know Kate loves chocolate. We also got her an australia airplane pillow as she was looking at them at the weekend, so we knew she didnt have one and thought it would be useful.The presents were from Me, Leigh, Emily and Hisako and think Kate liked her presents and we all got to share in having some of the chocolates.

Another corporate study day

Well last corporate study day Tuesday 17th July at Royal Prince Alfred hospital. So another early start and 2train rides. Once got their found Scott who was on my study days at concord. Had a catch up which was nice so at least the day didn't drag to much. This time we did about safer workplace and child protection. The safer workplace covered preventing and managing colorant behaviour in workplace. Was interesting but too long would of been better if could of done whole study days in one day instead of two. Also we didn't get lunch provided this time so had to buy, no good!! At least it finished for 3.30.
Afterwards I popped into city again to sort out my Telstra Internet device. Which their changed over to my name and I spoke to customer services. Who said it was their fault so put my $20 back on and extra $10. So pays to complain sometimes, let's just hope it works when home. Then I went to Nine West as had seen some nice shoes and thought since can't afford my Jimmy Choo's at the moment. Would get these one for now and were in sale with 20% off so only $56

Manly beach

Another day off work monday 16th July so decided to go to Manly. As not been yet and still had my weekly transport pass. First stop was Telstra as had bought credit yesterday but went on this morning and not working. Their told me had no credit but said only got yesterday so made me phone customer services. Who couldn't do anything as the device still in Hisako's name so took paperwork for her to change to my name. Typically nothing ever simple.
It was then time to catch the ferry to Manly which took a hour. Was nice as the sun was shining and could sit outside. When got to Manly wasn't sure how to get to beach but was well signposted. Just walked down the corso to the beach past all the shops, think there must be every surf shop here. Got something to eat and went to sit near the beach and take in the surrounding. Was a nice beach looked clean and had a few people on it. Afterwards had a walk towards Shelly beach only got half way. As turned round as time getting on and didn't want to miss ferry. Think I might actually prefer Manly to Bondi as more shops and beach looks nicer. It even has a Ben & Jerry's and Aldi first ones seen.
When got back went to Apple store as phone doesn't appear to be unlocked anymore. Their sorted for me then had to install all apps again. I then met Nat for tea we went to 'Pancake on the Rocks' which was actually at the rocks. But is a chain and is a few around is open 24hours a days. At least I know where to go after a night out for food now. Couldn't decide what to have so went for a Aussie sunrise where you abit of sweet and savoury with it. As got 2 pancakes, maple syrup, fried egg, bacon, grilled banana and pineapple. Was very nice think this might cone to be my favourite place.

Botanical gardens and take away

Sunday 15th July and Me, Kate and Emily off to botanical gardens in Sydney today. I have been briefly before but only had a quick look round and thought it would be nice to look inside the house, which is a free tour. So we went inside government house which I expected to be quite grand. But unfortunately it wasn't it was tacky none of the furniture went together. Definitely does not compare to our houses in England. None of us were that impressed but at least it cost us nothing was the only bonus.
It was then down through circular quay were saw some street theatre, was ok. But hate when there say at end of show not getting paid for this so please donate. We left at this pint as was not that good and Kate had seen before in England. Next stop something to eat so went to rocks find food store which specialises in locally sourced food. Also is know for good coffee so had to have one and was nice. Also had a cross isn't and could help self to jams etc..
Then Kate and Emily decided to head I wanted to stay and have a wander. Went to Telstra to sort out my Internet device as not working. All it needed was credit but didn't no how to check it so got it sorted. I then went to David Jones and looked at nice shoes found some lovely Jimmy Choos only $923. We're very nice an electric blue just my colour will have to safe up for then. It was then time to head back and go via Rhodes to speak home. Unfortunately the connection wasn't very good it kept freezing will have to try another day. Could be as an using free Wi-fi or mums connection not best at home.
It was then time to head home and get take-away had ordered Thai from chilli Jam. Had to be back for 7.30 but unfortunately it wasn't been delivered til 8.30. Is supposed to be very nice food and it was had chicken chilli jam hokkein noodle. As thought best have one off their specialitys. Was good but thought it might of been abit more spicy than it was.

More Saturday 14th July

After darling harbour we went find a opal bracelet for emily. She got a good deal as got it duty free so was about half the original price. Then we went to rocks to have a look round as have the market on the weekend. Did look at the pictures again as thinking of getting another one.
It was then time to go to circular quay and get lots of pictures of bridge and opera house. I got a lovely artistic one in black and one which I may have to get enlarged and framed at some point.
After that we were starting to feel abit hunger so Emily knew a place which did kangaroo and crocodile pizza. So we went to the Australian hotel just above the rocks. Wasn't so sure on the crocodile but me and Emily shared a kangaroo pizza. It had kangaroo, peppers and cranberries, thought strange having cranberries but went well. The kangaroo pizza was very nice just tasted like red meat. So last weekend was stroking a kangaroo this weekend eating one. We also had some potato wedges for all 3of us which were ok but not as nice as sky tower. By the time was only 6pm so we couldn't be bothered waiting for the fireworks at darling harbour at 8.30pm. So we decided to get the train back instead.

Lindt cafe-Kate's last weekend

So Kate's last weekend in Sydney so said she could chose what she wanted to do. She wanted to go back to the Lindt cafe and having a sharing platter. So that's what we did Me, Kate, Emily and Hisako went their on Saturday 14th July. We went to the Lindt cafe in darling harbour. There had a glass jar to put business cards then got a free Lindt ball. Their do peanut butter ones which were very nice, so a few different varieties to England.
Kate and Emily shared a sharing plate and so do me and Hisako. On the sharing plate you got brownie, 2 macaroons hazelnut and salted caramel, waffle with chocolate sauce and ice-creams, strawberries and 2little chocolates. Was certainly plenty to keep you going. Also since their thought might aswell have a hot chocolate aswell. So got a hazelnut hot chocolate which came with separate milk and chocolate sauce, it was good value as it made 3 cups. Me and Hisako couldn't finish out plate so Kate kindly finished out brownie for us. I think off the macaroons definitely preferred the salted caramel.
After Lindt we went to have a look round harbour side. Where my favourite shop is USA outlet was tempted to buy some jeans but resisted.

Drinks Thursday and Friday

On Thursday 12th July I met Nat in city for tea we weren't really sure where to go. Was going to go to Surreyhills but thought it was abit far to go. So we met at Apple shop as I had an appointment which was late for do rearranged. It was basically to sort out phone as since ungraded is not unlocked.
We we wandered down George street and saw Bar 333 which had steaks on offer for $12. I did fancy having a steak so went there and they were nice came with chips and sauce. The cocktails were also on offer for $10 so would be rude not to have one.
It was still early after we finished so went to 'Loft' on lime street. Was a nice bar but no way to sit so didn't stay had a pianist on. It was then down king street wharf where was lots of bars didn't realise it was their and next to darling harbour. We then stopped at blackbird on cockle bar wharf for a hot chocolate. It was then time to head back going through darling quarter first which had a few places to eat and bars. At least I know where to come now for a night out and is all quite near each other. Wasn't a late night as on early tomorrow.
On Friday at work enquires about having a week off end of october/November. To go home for my friends wedding, as i am bridesmaid. Told not actually entitled to time off til worked a year. So would have to write a letter to director of nursing asking, which I did. So just waiting to find out now hopefully know next week. But can't believe no holiday for a year, what will I do.
On Friday 13th off to Sky tower again for drinks as Kate wanted to go there to have chips again before leaving. So Me, Emily and Kate went it was emily's first time going. Leigh couldn't come as in Melbourne for weekend with cousin. When we got their some of Emily's friends from USA were there. Not many of them really spoke to us apart from Michael who even came to sit with us after getting drinks.
It was a difficult decision again what to order as so much choice. This time I went for 'Citron seduction' which was pomegranate, belvedere citrus vodka, citrus liquor and pink grapefruit. I definitely preferred this drink to the one I had last time. We also ordered done chips which were just as nice as the time before. Think we left about 10ish was hoping to go for drinks somewhere else but we came home.

Second week of work

Well now into my second week 9-13th july off work. Also my last week off doing earlies all week monday to friday then unfortunately the weekends start. It now doesn't feel as daunting, probably as I now know the routine. Also I feel I know more things now and don't have to ask as many questions. On the Tuesday 3rd I got moved to another ward which was an elderly ward. It was ok but felt abit like a spare part at first as couldn't do medications. They're trialling electronic medications, which I haven't been shown, as don't have on my ward.So I ended up helping with feeding then washes and observations. It was nice for a change and to see how other wards work but definitely prefer mine.
On Wednesday we had a patient who didn't speak any English, she spoke cantonese. So was difficult trying to communicate with her but think we got the idea. There is translators in the hospital if required. Luckily next day got someone opposite her who spoke same language and was happy to translate for us.
I looked after a patient who thought I was very cheerful and always had a smile on my face, which was nice to hear. Another patient also when every I went into his room but on an English accent, which was sweet. He had friends who were currently in Liverpool, UK.

Bondi market and shopping

So Sunday 8th July off to Bondi market since Kate broke her sunglasses yesterday and needs a new pair. Luckily it was a nice sunny day so could have a good look round the market. Had some nice things but nothing that reasonable so resisted buying anything. Their was one top I was tempted with but knew I had one about the same in UK.
Then we went for a wander along the beach from and to the ice skating rink. Yes you did hear me right ice skating rink on Bondi beach. It seemed abit odd having a rink on beach in July. But I suppose it is their winter not that you would think so as feels like spring in UK. I decided not to on rink as looked abit watery in place and also looked to be a few professionals. Had a pretend log cabin with fire in was an nice effect looked very homely.
After this we heard to Bondi junction for some retail therapy. I bought the French connection dress which I had eyed up last time. Went for it in dark grey as seem to have lots of black dresses. Their was also a striped one which I liked but was a good girl and resisted the temptation. But knowing me will probably buy once paid. We then had a look saw some gorgeous Jimmy shoe shoes. But then saw some at Nine West which probably more my price range, but didn't have in my size typical. I also bought some pyjamas as their had stars on.
It was then time to heard back to accommodation. Was going to meet Leigh and his friends in town but were both tired. So when got back just chilled and watched Australia MasterChef again.

Blue mountains

So earlier start for me and Kate today on Saturday 7th July, as off to Blue mountains. Caught train at about 7.30 as meeting tour bus at bus stop near strathfield station. When we got their was a mini bus waiting but we hoped it wasn't ours didn't look the best. Also no-one was on it and the driver was stood outside smoking. Luckily for us it wasn't and ours arrived a few minutes later with people on with just 2seats left for us.
First stop Featherdale Wildlife Park and as soon as we got off mini bus was a wallaby to meet us. So got to stroke the wallaby which was soft and kept trying to hide in the bag. Then it was through to the park where you can feed a kangaroo. It was nice as the kangaroos were free to roam the park. We also got a face to face encounter with one of the koalas we met Sammy and Frankie. We got our picture taken them with them with no extra charge, not like at zoo. Their was then more kangaroos to see and unfortunately didn't get to see the Tasmanian Devil as was hiding. It was then to the farmyard where was goats, pigs, rabbits and chickens. I then saw a white wallaroo which is like a kangaroo but white. Went to stroke it and it grabbed my coat, luckily it didn't rip it only got mud on it. We then looked round the shop and I bought a platypus teddy since didn't have any real ones and was so cute at zoo, named it Prescilla.
Next was to learn about aboriginal culture whilst seeing a boomerang throwing demonstration. We all got to have a go at boomerang and both me and Kate were unsure. But we both had a go and didnt do very well and the singapore group laughed at us. Which wasn't very nice as we won't the only ones who couldn't do it. When throwing a boomerang your supposed to have a relaxed wrist and throw hard. I definitely need more practice but at least no-one got hit on a head by one. A few nearly came back but not quite.
After boomerang we make our way to blue mountains along the Great Western Highway. Along the way we stop at Kings Tableland/ Flat-rock an exposed rock on the cliff looking down into Jamison Valley. It was a spectacular cliff lookout providing splendid views of the breathtaking mountain scenery. The cliff top was 900metres high, no wonder my ears popped getting their.
On leaving Kings Tableland it is on to Wentworth Falls Country club for our two course gourmet lunch. We got fish, chicken wings, salad, fries, broccoli, carrot cake and apple crumble with cream. Not sure if I would really call it a gourmet lunch the best bit was the crumble which Kate got second helpings off. I resisted since had both crumble and carrot cake. You got complimentary tea/coffee and water.
After lunch we pass through the village of Leura to Katoomba then stop at the Scenic World Complex. This is home to the Scenic Railway which was built in 1879 to transport coal. The steepest funicular railway was very busy, which was a shame. So we got the cable car down and got to gaze at the giant rock formation including the famous 'Three Sisters'. Then took a guided walk beneath the canopy on the raised boardwalk through the temperature rainforest. Saw a blood tree which is red in colour and has antiseptic uses, maybe a new medicine for Nurse Jo. We then got to return to the top on the steepest funicular railway, which was still fun but think would of been better going down. Had a wander outside and got a picture of the 'Three Sisters' statue. Their is a rock on own which used to be able to stand on known as orphan rock. Cant stand on due to it having a crack down the middle and afraid will collapse at some point.
The 'Three Sisters' is an usual rock formation in the blue mountains. Their names were Meehni, Wimlah and Gunnedoo. It is aborginal legend that their father who was a witch and turned his daughters to stone for their protection. He then lost his wand and was never able to find it and is still searching now as a Lyre bird.
Next we went to a look at Katoomba falls, which gave us a fantastic lookout on to the three sisters and falls. The aboriginal term for 'Katoomba' means shining falling water or water tumbling over hill. On way back to minibus Kate tripped and fell breaking her sunglasses from Bondi market.
Then it was time to explore the charm of township of Leura. Which is a small town which has a very relaxed feel about it. Even has a bench labelled 'Seat for Bored Husbands'.. We want to famous candy store where you couldn't resist but buy something got some raspberry bons bons very tasty and more things. Had a chocolate shop 'Josophan's' which sold fine chocolate and was good and bought nothing. Went in the Christmas shop which was a bit odd not much in it but very warm. Then we found cafe Madeleine which sells chocolate from Josophan's had a blondie which was a white chocolate brownie. Was gods but think would off preferred abit more chocolate. Then time to get on bus again as got 15mins extra as had flat tyre. So had 45mins in Leura instead of 30mins, which gave us more time to explore.
It was then time to head back home. To finish our blue mountains experience we got cruise down the parramatta river, under the Sydney harbour bridge to circular quay. It was a relaxing thing to do to finish off our day. The cruise took about 30mins and by the time we got to circular quay was 18hrs.
Got off ferry and was going to go see fireworks at darling harbour at 20hrs but we both tired and couldn't be bothered waiting 2hrs. When walking out of circular a group of lads spoke saying it was his birthday. He asked for a kiss on cheek but turned head so more his lips. Should of seen that one coming, maybe abit naive but put it down to me been tired.

First week of work

Well first week of work 3-6th july appeared to go well not any major dramas. After first day already felt better and knew more what I should be doing. In regards to routine and didn't take as long with medications. Also only really had to do medications for 4 patients as is first job after hand over everyone does it together. Then two people do the controlled drugs or S4 and S8 drugs. I thought our ward had a lot but even more here nearly have a book for each one. Think will not get used to not calling them CD's. Also codeine phosphate is a controlled drug, but not in UK.
The rest of the week went ok til Friday when realise had lost my drug key and fob watch. Rechecked in my room and not there luckily another nurse gave me a fob watch, best not lose this one. Then told NUM had lost key and gave me the spare one to use. One thing I thought was good when giving continuous subcutaneous injection there put a butterfly needle in. So at least your not giving them an injection every time.
Later on found out me and another nurse had made a drug error on thursday. We had given morphine subcutaneous instead of oral. Luckily it was only a small dose the patient said their felt better so must of helped. The other nurse was quite upset about it and we filled in an incident form (ims). The NUM was very nice about it and helped us fill in the ims report and went through 5rights.
After a stressful Friday at work was definitely ready for a drink good job off out tonight. Off to surreyhills the Beresford as people keep saying its a good night out. We got the train to central and was about a 15min walk to pub. The beresford was very busy at first couldn't find a table was lots if people in suits just come from work. We ordered a group hug between four of us me, emily, kate and leigh, hisako had a beer. In the drink was Zubrovka vodka, apple juice, camomile, lemonade and mint, it was very refreshing. Kate and Emily got Chips which definitely won't as good as the sky tower ones. It wasn't a late one as me and Kate have earlier start tomorrow for blue mountains.

First day of work at concord hospital

Monday 2nd July and my first official day as a registered nurse in Australia. I actually felt nervous and excited, but I suppose I wouldn't be human if I didn't. As we always panic as it is part of been human. Also I wasn't sure what to expect for my first day. When you get hand over in morning is at end of patients bed. Which is a good idea as get more detail, but takes longer than in one room. One person takes notes, one checks charts and other one checks suction and O2.
One good thing was that I wasn't left on my own I was buddied with another nurse. So I mainly struck with her most of the day apart from when I did medications in morning with CNS. Which seemed to take forever as some medications so had to checks in MIMS a drug reference book. I then gave my first IVAB via cannula with supervision. I can't use central lines yet as need to accredited to show I can do it, even though doing in England. But hopefully won't take too, I suppose is nice to settle in first and get used to routine.
After doing medications and making sure everyone ok for personal care. Did observations as I knew it was one thing I was capable off without been supervised. The ward usually runs at 30 patients with 2 sides A and B with 3 nurses each side and one floating. Don't have care support worker just registered nurses, enrolled nurse and undergraduate nurse. The NUM and CNS are usually on ward. But today was only open for 24 patients. I did enjoy my first day and think their will be lots to learn. But at some points felt like a spare probably will til I get used to everything. Their do more team nursing than having individual patients.

Pilates, Bondi junction and drinks!!

Up early this morning Sunday 1st July so decided to go to Pilates with Hisako. As never done it and got it free with my 2weeks free membership, so why not. It was good but definitely need to improve on my breathing if want to get better at it. As with Pilates have to sync your breathing and small movements. But my stomach muscles did ache afterwards so must of done something right.
Then afterwards went to Rhodes shopping centre to try and find a picture frame for my Sydney picture. I found Kate their and asked her and decides to get was only $8. When got it home struggled to get into but got there in the end. Then once I put it in my room I dropped it and broke about of frame but can't tell when on top of chest of draws. It's a good job it was only cheap, so will have to buy another at some point.
Then it was off to Bondi junction for abit off retail therapy. Went to French connection and found some lovely knitted dresses which would go with my new uggs. But couldn't really decide which one I preferred so left it. Saw a gorgeous pair of jimmy choo sandals in blue then went to their shop and found even more shoes. But which ones round or pointy court and only $800. So if stay longer in staff accommodation will be able to afford. I then got some more work trousers only $20, bargain.
It was then off to 'Cock n bull' pub to meet girls from orientation. the pub is an Irish pub and Australia's favourite Irish pub of 2011. It was busy and had a live Irish band. It was nice to catch up with the girls and find out what everyone had been up. Think our 1st official stress release workshop will become a regular thing. Wasn't a late night, left about 8 as knew first day at work tomorrow

Chocolate, Nando's and shopping in Sydney

Off to Sydney today Saturday 30th June with Leigh and Kate. First stop was darling harbour and was a lively unlike when I came on my own and rained. Went to the English sweet shop and was nice can try before you buy, bons bons very nice especially lemon. Couldn't believe how much angel delight was $5 and Bassetts Jelly Babies $8. Don't think I will be buying any of those soon. We then went USA outlet shop as had told Kate and Leigh about it. I got a Abercrombie dress only $15 a bargain and the other two also bought things.
Next it was off to Max Brenner the australian chocolate shop. Max Brenner is known as the bald man creating a new chocolate culture. Me and Leigh both got waffles and chocolate sauce and I got a hot chocolate with toffee. We got it as take-away and went to sit in Hyde Park. I was abit disappointed with hot chocolate couldn't taste any toffee. Kate had got hot chocolate with coconut and was lovely. But at least my waffle more than made up for my poor hot chocolate. Hyde park was nice and it made me laugh was on on Elizabeth Street, named after our Queen maybe.. Their was a lovely fountain in Hyde park see picture.
Whilst sat in Hyde park we got a phone call saying mine and Kate's trip to Blue Mountains was cancelled. So next was Circular Quay to book another trip there since it was cancelled. Luckily we managed to get another one but unfortunately not for Sunday was for Saturday 7th. First we checked to make sure weather would be good and said so, so finger crossed.
Then it was off to Nando's to meet Hisako but both me and Kate weren't really that hungry so I just got a chicken wrap. But asked for medium and got lemon and herb which was still nice, but would off preferred medium. Maybe next time their may get it right was just the day for getting wrong things. Me and Kate then went to Rocks market and just made it time as was just starting to shut. We both got a picture of Sydney.
It was then time to heard back home and we met everyone else on train. Everyone else went straight I went to Rhodes shopping to look for picture frame only ikea open had a mount, will have another look tomorrow. I then spoke to mum, dad and nanna the first time spoken to nanna since been gone. Unfortunately the connection was rubbish assumed it was because of bad weather in UK.

Supernumerary day on ward

Well first actually day on the ward but supernumerary. Abit of a shock to the system having to be at work again for 7. Didn't feel too nervous today as I knew I wasn't included in the numbers. I mainly spent the day with the CNS Clinical Nurse Specialist, who is the educator on the ward. We went through lots of policies and procedures which apply to the ward.
Their are very up on cytotoxic drugs and have to complete log when come in contact with any cytotoxic drugs. You have yearly blood checks which I thought was a good idea. I also has a practice of what to if had a cytotoxic spillage. I feel it is going to be a nice ward with lots of new things to do. When I finished at 3.30 even went home with homework. As have to do worksheets for syringe driver, giving blood products and cytotoxic package.
When got home we were supposed to be going out tonight to Surreyhills, but everyone tired. So we decided to give it a miss and watched films on TV and I fell asleep on sofa.

2 day nursing orientation

Now 2 days of nursing orientation still at concord hospital 27th and 28th June. On 27th had to do a medication quiz which was abit worried about. But after doing the booklet last night felt abit better that I knew it. It was actually alright was nice to be able to use calculator and I was the first to finish. Then it was wound management, falls, infection control, lunch and then diabetes management. Told them how we use stickers when a patient has a hypo and liked that idea. As their already uses green stickers and signs for falls. It was then CPR assessment which seemed to take forever probably as last thing for day. So didn't get out til about 5 again and then went to gym with Leigh.
Last day of orientation 28th June and do about blood products. Which is same protocol as us 15min observations after start off blood and hourly after unless needed. Their used to do 15min for a hour, then half hourly and then hourly. Then changed which is a good thing only thing different is doing blood over 4hours instead of 3. It was then induction to information systems, basically how to find results electronically. Lunch then and had a burger my first one was good but their serve beetroot with it which seems wrong. So obviously asked for it without. On a Thursday have market on got a muesli cookie but brownie looked good.
I then met our tutor who gave me a tour off the hospital. So then I should hopefully be able to find my way around is only 7floors and 3 wards on each floor. It was then time to first my ward for the 1st time was abit nervous as not sure what to expect. Everyone who I met was nice the Nursing Unit Manager (NUM) showed me round. The ward is actually oncology, haematology and palliative. So am sure their will be lots of news things to learn. I then got my rooster very important on earlys for 2weeks Monday to Friday which is good. At least by the end of those 2weeks will hopefully know what am doing. Finished at about 3 since had had 2 long days and back tomorrow morning.

Facility study day and cinema

Facility study day Tuesday 26th June but at least this time at concord hospital. But still had to be up early as started at 8am. Not used to study days starting so early at Harrogate was normally 9.30. This time was only people from concord hospital and from all different departments. Think was roughly about 15 of us and only 3 of us nurses which included me.
At first felt was abit like yesterday as went through infection control and interpreters again. But I suppose this one was more aimed at the hospital I was working at. Then it was fire safety where we got to have a practice with fire extinguisher. Was very good didn't cover anyone only got the wall and bin with foam. It was then break and got tea/coffee provided which definitely needed as room was cold..
After break got to find out past and present times of Concord Hospital. Which was quite interesting the Hospital was built in 1941 and til 1947 was an Army Hospital. The logo is cross for red cross, lion for strength and Australian flag. Then it was the most important news how much annual leave we get which is only 6wks.
Unfortunately today didn't get lunch provided so had to buy which is no good. But their is a good bakery shop in hospital had a spinach and feta roll. Then I got to find out about they observation chart which is slightly different to ours and called 'Between the Flags'. Their have different sections for each area like Bp, pulse etc and only escalate if goes into the flags. Then it was manual handling which seemed to go on forever don't think left til 5. Also found out got drug calculations test tomorrow not impressed. When got back to accommodation went through calculations workbook so should know it tomorrow, hopefully.
Tonight off to cinema at Rhodes shopping centre to see 'Snow-white and the huntsman'. As on a Tuesday cinema is slightly cheaper $11 instead of $20. Before film me and Leigh went to Coles supermarket and bought a few nibbles. Their was about 8 of us who went 5 from our accommodation and 3 of Leigh's uni friends. The film itself wasnt the best was a dark fairytale all I can really is glad their was some eye candy in Chris Hemsworth. The cinema itself was hugh like a theatre as has 3 seating levels.

Corporate study day and Bondi

Well first study day today 25th June and at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. So had to be up very early to catch 2 trains to be there for 8. When got there found out didn't actually start til 8.30, so could of had longer in bed. Never mind I was there now.
First thing was telling us what our corporate study entailed. Which basically gave us an introduction to the organisation and was staff from 4 different hospitals. We had a workbook to fill in, which I only really did for something to do. Mentioned how important hand washing washing, what a surprise. Also clinical governance which is never the most interesting subject.
But at least we got lunch provided even if was only sandwiches. Got speaking to a few girls who wee all working at Prince Alfred Hospital. Their was quite a few nurses from Ireland on my table at lunch was 6 of us and 3 from Ireland. After lunch was even more talks about manual handling, been prepared, multicultural health and legislations. Just what you want after lunch and think some may of fallen asleep. Luckily finished at 4.30 and swapped numbers with one of the girls.
Got home quick freshen up as off out tonight to Bondi for food. Kate not feeling well full of cold so just me, Leigh and Emily going meeting Nat there. Went to 34 degrees south Leigh had found a good offer 2 courses and wine for $34. I had chilli and garlic prawns to start with and lamb rump which was nice. Emily wasn't sure what prawns were so tired, said were like shrimps in America. Nat also got me a little present which I thought was sweet of her a I love Australia mug, key ring and earrings.
After tea we went for a little stroll as thought might have ice-cream. Then walking past 'San Churro' saw their fondue for two which looked amazing. So off course we couldn't resist and ordered two white and milk chocolate. You got lots with it bananas, strawberries, popcorn, brownie, churro and marshmallows. But I think my favourite was strawberries, bananas and churro. Also think I preferred white chocolate to milk glad we didn't get dark. Then it was time to head back home to concord.