Here in Belize there really is no typical day. I’ve found
that you make a plan and a few minutes later the plan is changed. I like “going
with the flow” so adapting here in Belize hasn’t been too difficult. I try to
organize my week and figure out which patients I’m going to see. My plans are
quickly changed when I get calls from patients who need me to see them for
various reasons. I just go with it. I’ve found you have to be adaptable and
flexible being a home visit nurse for 50 or so patients. Let’s just say I’m
best friends with sticky notes!
I’ve been spending most of my mornings working at Hillside’s
clinic from 8am-noon. In the clinic we have about 4 medical students, 1 doctor,
3 Belizean pharmacy /medical techs, and a student pharmacist. Working closely
with the medical students, pharmacists, and doctors has been rewarding in so
many ways. They know I’m eager to learn so they’ll discuss patient conditions
with me and will grab me to assist with patient care. In the clinic I’m available for anyone who has questions or
if someone needs my assistance. This week I helped by drawing blood, performing
EKGs, assisting with PAP smears/vaginal exams, performing wound care,
administering injections, and providing diabetic education.
For lunch I usually head over across the street to see our
neighbor Charlotte. She feeds me well. Maybe actually too well! I get a large
portion of rice, beans, and chicken, which costs about $2.50 U.S. After lunch,
I head out for some home visits.
The majority of my patients are 60 years and older. Common medical diagnoses I see are:
cerebral vascular accidents, hypertension, diabetes type II, chronic heart
failure, renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, heartburn, and high cholesterol. I have around 50
patients at the moment. I’ve had two patients pass away. Both were in their
90s. I’m finding my job is geared more towards hospice nursing. I do enjoy
working with the family and helping the patient feel comfortable during the end
of life process. I also find it’s very important to
take the time and explain to the patients what exactly is going on with their
body. Patients may be told what they’re diagnosed with but many of the times
don’t fully understand what is physiologically going on.
I like to see 4-5 patients in the afternoon. I do a full
head to toe assessment, which consists of reviewing all their systems. I’ve had
4 months here in Belize to get to know all my patients so I now know what
exactly to check on or focus on during their home visit. I’m also responsible
for filling patients medications. I give them 35 days worth of each medication.
This helps me keep track of the patients’ medication compliance. I’ve found
pill boxes have been helping my patients take their medications correctly. I
also learned that pill boxes can be extremely confusing to some. Pill boxes and
medication compliance could be a blog in itself!
