I don't know why I am even having to write this post. File this under 'common sense 101' or 'how to not be an asshole' or even 'how to be a decent human, for dummies.' For those of you with halfway evolved frontal lobes, don't feel like you have to read any further. Since the … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #8
Dr. Riegel was a senior resident when I was in medical school, then a palliative care fellow when I was a resident. During my fellowship, she was one of my most treasured attendings, and now I am honored to call her a dear friend. She is an extraordinarily talented writer and I am so excited … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #7 with Special Guest Author, Dr. Emily Riegel.
Anger - the stage of grief I have apparently landed in today. As I was perusing social media last night, I came across a post that questioned why pleas for others to stay at home and continue social distancing are often accompanied by anger, name calling and "venom." I slept on that question. Then I … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #6
Hyperalgesia: An abnormal and enhanced sensitivity to pain. For the past several weeks, my team and our entire health system have been preparing for the Covid-19 surge. Our team started to see our first Covid-19 consults last week. Of the patients I've seen so far, some have died, one recovered. I have several patients who, … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #5
Today I wrote up a protocol for how to allow someone dying of Covid-19 to die comfortably on life support machines because the act of actually removing the life support machine poses an increased risk of transmission to the providers present at the bedside. So, there's that. In other news, I'm learning a lot from … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #4
Okay, I was going to try to lighten the mood and talk about all of the shenanigans happening in my house right now, but there are some serious things I need to tell you. I promise I'll post something lighter soon-ish. A quick update on my job. I am a Palliative Care physician in a … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #3
Dear Louisa, I'm sorry that our family wasn't able to go on our trip, but I have really enjoyed the past few days here at home with you and our family. I know that things are super-weird right now and I appreciate how brave and flexible you have been. The hugs you gave me tonight … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #2
This is the view from my office. It's been my view for almost seven years now. I was pretty lucky to get an office with a window when I was only a fellow (this must have been a clerical mistake) and this has been my home base ever since. Looking out my window I … Continue reading Covid-19 Series, Entry #1
Oh, hey, I think I'll put together a presentation for my speaking engagement thing-a-ma-jig* on Saturday. Okay, what was that new software I was wanting to try for power points? I must find the app on my phone. Looks at phone. Hey, new facebook notifications. Wow, that's a really cool obituary that showed up on … Continue reading Me, today
For immediate release: #1 When rounding in hoop and/or loop earrings, one must exert extreme caution so as not to entangle one's stethoscope in said earrings. The result could involve significant pain and potentially disfigurement. #2 When referring to the palliative care team in a progress note, refrain from using the word "impending." That conjures … Continue reading Public service announcement for July 25th, 2019
