The opportunity arose to change role and expand my knowledge by working in the combined ICU (Intensive Care unit) and CCU (Coronary Care unit) that was the original set up at MKUH. There was much to learn and adapt to. On the ICU we spent time with one patient during the shift, completing the tasks and focused on delivering the necessary care. Alongside that we would meet their families and have to explain what we were doing as we nursed these unwell people.
Emergencies would occur as patient’s conditions could change. I soon learnt to adopt a tone of voice that would give the Sister a warning I was concerned about my patient. It meant a quick response and action was taken. On some days you held the ‘crash’ bleep. That was the one for attending a cardiac arrest call. It meant a dash to the scene, most often to Accident and Emergency. Sadly not everyone survived. There were those patients who were recovering from surgery who would go on to the wards and recover. A serious infection might have meant a stay too. We tried to celebrate important days for the patients such as their birthdays. I recall getting requests played on local radio, and making an effort around Christmas time to brighten the place up. Respectful team work was essential and the norm for most of the time.
The CCU was another place of learning as we were taught to record then interpret ECG recordings. The patients were monitored whilst in the unit which was helpful if they began to experience an arrhythmia. We had one consultant who tried to teach on ward rounds but his style could make the rounds frightening. That was unfortunate, though a good lesson on how not to do things.
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