The Synapse Connections of a lifetime

Went to clinical session today in St. George Hospital. I had Dr. Low again for my clinical tutor, hehe! I'm quite glad actually.. Anyway, just want to pen down some things about one of the patients that I saw today. The first patient that i saw today had a respiratory problem, and she had symptoms of pleural effusion for the past few months together with persistent coughing. The fluid that is accumulating in the lung had since been drained and she no longer suffers from coughs. However, the patient still suffers from nausea and weakness due to mini strokes in her brain as well as from the effects of Parkinson's. It was difficult to comprehend her condition due to the immense amount of past medical history that she possesed. One important medical history was a mastectomy for her breast cancer. Before entering her room, we were instructed to wear clinical gowns and face masks to prevent cross infection, as the hospital staff suspected that she had viral infection in her lungs. This had caused stress in the patient, due to the fact that everyone she sees wears a mask and a gown. I felt very sorry for her because in addition to her conditions, she is suffering from social isolation and possible depression. Before we end our session, she spoke about her wish that they would let her keep the door open. She also said that she felt as if she's in a prison. I guess we often took for granted all the little things in life. I would never imagine having an open door to be such an important thing, but it is so for this patient. I feel that this aspect of health care is not addressed in this case; that is the social and emotional aspect of the patient. Well, that's all for the day's experience.. hehe!