A Truth

Here is a statement that should be taken very seriously: No matter your age, nationality, background, gender, culture, or personality, farts will always be funny.

I hate to break it to you. Some of you might think of yourself as being classier than me and are shocked that I would mention this in a public setting. I don't care. If someone audibly breaks wind, I know that you will at least attempt to stifle a giggle. I take pride in the fact that I can admit this. Also, working in a hospital provides ample flatulence stories. This world is sometimes a hard place and sometimes we need to be able to share these stories to lighten the mood and relieve stress.

So.... I was working with a patient in a semi-private room. I was giving him some pain medication when there was a loud noise on the other side of the curtain. The room was dark, it was 3 in the morning, and my patient and I had been speaking in whispers. You can hardly blame me for literally jumping back with a slight surge of adrenaline. It was loud. It was long. It was hilarious. I looked around the curtain and the guy is fast asleep. In my defense, I tried very hard to maintain dignity and composure, but it was a losing battle.

I believe there are at least a few people who read this blog who have had a colonoscopy done. If you are unfamiliar with this procedure, they clean out your intestines, blow them up with air, and take a look around. Afterwards, you pass a lot of gas. You're supposed to. If you don't, something is wrong. I have to admit though, it's still funny. Patients apologize and I assure them that it's normal and expected. Then I leave the room and chuckle. It's shameful, yes, but if I can't laugh when someone cuts the cheese, where will I be?

(Note: I just googled fart synonyms- the English language goes above and beyond the call of duty to make sure there is a word that is suited for your poot)

On another note, I had my first patient try to attack me yesterday. I was admitting her and she was very confused, scared, and in pain. Luckily, she was wasn't very strong, but let me tell you, I got an major adrenaline rush. No harm done whatsoever, but I wonder how frequently this happens. I'm thankful that I'm still with another nurse who can support me and be there when things are tense.

Other than that, first week on night shift went well! Come back soon!

-C-