Sarah Scoville, MS, PA-C

All the studying paid off.  I officially passed my board exam!!  I have been so anxious all week about it.  I was mentally preparing myself to move back to Delta (not that I don't love you mom, but it's Delta) where, if needed, I would study until I could retake boards.  Now I can stay put in Mesa!!!!  Yes, such a good feeling.   I can actually enjoy my free-time.

Thanks for all the prayers, thoughts, and support during this challenging time.  I can't express how much I appreciate your love!  I couldn't have done it without all of you.

 

While I've been waiting for my results... 

 

I went on a date with Max.  We saw the movie G-force.  Max was interested until almost the end of the show.  Then he started entertaining himself, and couldn't stop the giggles.  Good thing there were only two other people there.

 

After the movie, we stopped by Discover Park on the drive home.  We had a great time walking around the pond, running up and down the rolling hills, and climbing on the decorative rocks.

 

 

I also played tennis at Freestone Park with friends Kristen and Scotty.  It was great fun, even though, I'm SO out of shape.  I was winded after each play.  Sad.  We are determined to play once a week.

 

I laid out by the pool.  I wanted to get a little color, and I sure got pink.  I was only out there for maybe an hour.  The water was actually pretty nice.  I was afraid it was going to be so hot that it wouldn't be refreshing.   

 

I have been playing the piano like crazy.  It is a great de-stressor and helps my mind think of other things.  Having all this free-time has been interesting.  I have forgotten how to live without studying or feeling guilty for not studying.  It is something I am sure going to enjoy & get used to quickly.  The Wii has been a daily favorite as well.  

 

Today I think I will buy me a new outfit.  I deserve it, right???

 

Other events...

 

Scotty's birthday.  We studied part of the day.  Then we ordered pizza and played Wii.  Wii tennis is my favorite.

 

 

Deanna Stradling had her baby shower!  Yay for babies, and reasons to get together with friends.

 

Ashley and I entertaining ourselves at the baby shower.

test day

is finally over!

The last two years I've been preparing for this exam, the PANCE.  The last three weeks I've been reviewing questions, and more questions.  There were occasional breaks to play wii, eat, sleep, play the piano, and anything else I could do to distract myself.  It gets tedious reviewing material over and over again.  I had some great study partners that motivated me to keep going, most days.  My anxiety about the test (and the fact that it affects the rest of my future) has skyrocketed.  I have utilized the pharmaceutical companies goods with much appreciation.  

I hate standardized exams.  And this was the worst yet.  I arrived at 7:30 am.  This was a rigorous 6+ hour 360 question exam.  And very strict protocol.  To get in and out of the testing room you have to show ID and scan your fingerprint.  I had two 15 min breaks to use the restroom, drink some water, and eat some trailmix.  I had a small locker to store all my items.  Nothing is allowed in the testing room except your locker key and ID.  Intense.  Then I had to focus on taking six 60 question exams, one hour each.  I used every last minute.  Probably 25% of the questions I knew right away, 25% I think I knew, 25% I could narrow it down to two answers, and 25% I was purely guessing. Half of the questions, I don't even remember which answer I decided on.  Doesn't sound like such great odds.  Walking away from the testing center I felt complete dread.  The real torture is waiting to receive my results.  Not everyone passes.  

I finished at 2:40 pm. I was dehydrated, famished, and completely exhausted.  What to do while waiting???  I've never been so bored as I was yesterday.  I'm done studying, so how do you fill your time.  I tried to enjoy a sweet pork salad from Cafe Rio, but the questions kept running thru my mind.  Yes, I took time looking up things I wasn't sure about.  Not surprising, most of those questions I missed.  I couldn't even take a nap...which is NEVER the case.  I played the Wii, read some of my friends biography, played on the computer, played the piano, talked to my roommates... yet, I still had TOO much time to THINK about the exam.  I stayed up way too late.  And here it is way too early in the morning for me to be awake.  All I can do is wait, and think, and wait some more.

One down, seven to go!

My first rotation is already completed.  I can't believe how fast it flew by.  I sure enjoyed my six weeks of OB/GYN learning I received at Today's Women's Health Specialists.  My doctors, Watters, Purohit, Frausto, and Boag, all taught me different things because they each had their own teaching style.  I love being in the clinic and out of the classroom.  I was very nervous to start talking with patients, and try to figure out all their problems and give them answers, but learned how to focus in on what is most important for that visit.  I learned more about the female reproductive system, how it functions and what's the normal aging process.  I saw lots, but my most favorite part was being in the Operating Room.  Even though, I was yelled at every time, I loved scrubbing in and getting to participate in the surgery.  The whole birthing process wasn't really my favorite.  It was interesting to see a few times, but definitely not a fan of vaginal deliveires.  I enjoyed cesarean sections and watching the doctor pull the baby out, pass the kid over to the nurse, bring the uterus out to piece it back together, and then put everything back into place.  I did enjoy watching the newborn assessment because by that time the baby looked normal.  Overall, I felt like it was a great rotation to start off with because it was system focused.  The majority of other problems were referred back to the PCP.

Yesterday I made my trek to Morenci, AZ.  I left a little later that I had planned on, and got into town about 1030pm.  It was a lot of windy roads through the reservation between Globe and Safford, but it helped me stay awake.  I pulled into Morenci with no expectations.  It's quite the place.  It's small like Delta, where I grew up, with 4,000 people living in Freestone Mining Industry homes.  This town is owned by the mine.  The housing structure is different, but works.  I will take pictures of the town soon.  I came around back of the Gila Healthcare to the Urgent Care.  I ran the bell, and two nice men came and let me in.  Right away they were excited it was there because they had a patient they wanted me to see.  It was a young boy about 7 years old complaining of ear pain.  I looked in both ears and could see that their was some bulging and effusion in the left ear.  I also listened to his heart which was a different, but normal rhythm.  As he takes a breath in his heart rate speeds up, and then when he blows out it slows down with a slight pop.  It was cool to be able recognize something abnormal from the usual normalities.  After all the excitement of getting the prescription for Amoxicillin figured out, they finally showed me where my room was.  Yes, I am living in the clinic/hospital for the six weeks while I am up here.  Here's a few great shots of my new living quarters.

I've got quite the place!  Today was my first day working in Emergency Medicine.  I didn't want to do an ER because I am terrified at all the trauma they see there, and opted for the Urgent Care.  It was actually pretty busy, the staff said.  I saw probably 20 patients with and without the doctor (she saw more!).  I felt like it was a good experience for a first day.  I really liked that you saw the patient, treated the problem, and sent them on their way with a follow up with their PCP.  I saw an eye laceration, viral vasculitis causing joint pain and diffuse rash, a couple of broken fingers, hematuria, among a few things, and I even placed my first IV.  I think this is going to be a great rotation.  The staff is very helpful, I get to make my own schedule, and pretty much they are willing to let me do whatever I feel comfortable doing (to some degree).  I think I will get to help in a lot of procedures and they even said that I could go out on the paramedic rides.  I'm going to learn a lot here!  It is definitely a rural town where everyone knows everyones business.  But it seems like a good little community.  I am looking forward to meeting up with Kim Woods Sant from high school, and visiting with her family as well.

Already on to rotation number two.  I'm surprised at how much I like being in the clinic.  I think this year is going to fly by, and before you know it, I'm going to be practicing.  I hope I get the experience I need before then.

School's out.

Ok. Not really.  But I have that same excitement bursting from my seams.  You know, when it's the last day of school and all you want to do is parrrty!!  After a long awaited, intensive didactic year, there is some hope to the future.  We received our rotation assignments for next year.  Wow!  I'm still in shock and jittery from the excitement.  It's going to be an interesting, and hopefully fun.  Not really what I was expecting, but I then again, I wasn't expecting much.  I informed the school that I was pretty open to whatever was available.  I get to rock an OB/GYN first off.  Then I'm off to Morenci, AZ (and yes, I had to google where that is located - East side of AZ!).  Next, family practice here in Mesa.  My elective follows suite (not sure where that will be - either here in AZ or maybe in UT).  Then my Internal Medicine at the federal prison.  Can't imagine what I'll be learning there?!? Another family practice in Mesa with a PA that I already know.  That will be awesome!  Pediatrics on the north side of town, Scottsdale.  And last but not least, Cardiothoracic surgery for my final rotation.  A lot to look forward to.  I still have a few more weeks of mass studying before the real anxiety sets in!

toward and away

Our lab today was all about suturing. We practiced a couple different techniques on pigs feet. It was great fun learning how it is done. I'm not a pro, but I enjoyed doing it. It is hard to maneuver the tools and not bend the needles (the pig skin is a little tougher than live human skin). I'm sure every time I see stitches I will be critiquing the work done. Doing the procedure labs always gets me excited for rotations. Only eight more weeks until they begin.

Pictures courtesy of Beth Hill!

Birthday Weekend

I thought I'd write a quick post about this past weekend. It was Rachel's birthday last Friday. Happy 22!!!  We celebrated with another friend for their birthdays by having a "Dynamite Birthday Party!" We played some Rockband, swung at a pinata, ate some food, and hung out. Killer party!

Then Sunday JP and Mary Ann invited us over for a birthday dinner party. Mary Ann decorated with super cute Martha Stewart-like designs! Such talent! We also celebrated Cinco de Mayo by having tamales, chips & fresh homemade salsa, beans, and salad. Delicious! For birthday dessert we had some yummy rice krispies (which I've continued to enjoy this week at lunch time!).

My favorite present for Rachel was her "It's a great day box!" I've been asking her what she wanted for her birthday, and she'd say "Oh, nothing, just get me a card!" Since we had that duel birthday party and I was taking a present for Josh, Rachel said "Just bring me a wrapped up box with a saying inside like - a kiss from me whenever you need!" So for her birthday, I did give her a box for herself!  It has kisses, feel good sayings, serve opportunities, and other miscellaneous thoughts.  Probably not what she expected, but will be enjoyed!!!

Max and Ian were adorable when we got out there. For some reason, Max is excessively shy until almost the end of our visits. After dinner, JP was like "You want to see Max get excited? Max, you want to watch tv?" Max about flipped out, twirling around, chanting "Yo gabba gabba, yo gabba gabba!" Apparently it's his favorite show. He ran over to the couch and got ready to watch the show. It was so dang cute! This is a picture of us trying to get Max to look at Mary Ann. He's so shy, though, and just kept looking at my hand instead. I'd whisper in his ear and he'd get a little smile on his face. I love having family so close!

Can you see the true camels? It took me a little while to realize that the white spots where the actual camels and the black spots are the shadows! Pretty cool!

Fourth quarter finals are starting next week. It seems like I'm always in midterms or finals. Do they ever end? I was calculating how many exams I will have taken over the 14 months and figured out that it would be between 85-90. That's a lot of tests! No wonder why I feel like I'm always taking tests. That doesn't even include quizzes, papers, case studies, or presentations. My life is busy! It's amazing I manage to find time to have any social life. Good thing Rachel is here to help me remember that I need to have down time as well. She's been known to help me ditch class or procrastinate my studies for a little while, right Rach?

A few weekends ago, I was able to help with TOPS physical exams at Gilbert High for the surrounding high school students. Here is a picture of some of us students from the ATSU Sports Medicine Club (both PA's and DO's). It was a fun experience, even though, I only stayed for half of the day. It was great to get a little more clinical experience and learn more about how to talk to actual patients. Only one more quarter and I'll be on rotations. It's crazy to think that a year ago I was getting ready to start school, and Amanda was thinking about starting rotations. Now Amanda has moved back to UT/WY to finish her last two rotations up there and I'll be finishing my didactic phase of school. I will miss Amanda but I'm so excited for her to be with her husband and family. I was able to go out last Friday and help her get ready to move. It was great reminiscing and joking around. Thank goodness for great friends.  It's been a fun couple of weeks.

Reflections of Christ

Tonight I was privileged to attend a fireside at the Bishop's home. Mark Mabry, a local photographer, came to speak about his recent project "Reflections of Christ" to our ward. It is currently being featured at the Mesa Temple Visitor's Center. What an inspiration his artwork is for me, and I'm sure for many others. My favorite picture was of Christ's Resurrection. My heart was touched as I learned more about the exhibit and experiences of those who participated in this project. Each was influenced differently but all had the same result of getting to know their Savior more personally. Photography has also been powerful to me. Add profound music and lyrics to the setting and my soul soars on high. It was a great to strengthen my testimony of Christ, His Earthly ministry, the power of the Atonement, and confirming fact of eternal life.

This has been a good week for me.  There has been much contemplation about life, school, and dreams.  I've tried to break away from my normal midterm stress, and had some help with Rachel.  Wednesday she invited me out boating with her and some of her friends.  Of course, I did have school and there was a split second dilemma of what I should do.  "Go to class, go wakeboarding, class, wakeboarding?"  That was quickly determined. I packed up my laptop and books and headed out the door.  It was a bit windy of a day, but still a delight to be up at Saguaro Lake with some new great friends.  I, of course, enjoyed watching them do some cool tricks.  I did get out in the freezing water for a brief time.  Josh and Jake were great at teaching me how to stay up...that's about all I did.  I learned that I have muscles that I never use.  Surprisingly, I wasn't too stressed while being away from my books.  I was feeling guilty for skipping out on class a small moment.  And of all classes, Law & Ethics, but Josh informed me that it could be looked over this once, since he is going to be graduating from Law School in about two weeks.  So he covered my need to know basics of Ethics that day.  Luckily, I didn't fail any of my exams this week.

Thursday night I went to Institute and my teacher gave a great lesson on fasting: how to fast, the purpose of our fast, and the blessings obtained from fasting.  Friday afternoon I went and laid by the pool with Rachel and Becca.  I went for a walk with Wendy later.  Then that night I hung out with my friend Josh.  I love making new friends.  I wish I had a little more time to spend with them all.  Saturday I mostly studied.  My favorite past time.  That evening I was invited to meet the first ATSU PA class alumni with two other classmates.  It was so fun to watch the twelve of them get together after ten years and reminisce about their school days.  Much has changed with the school since they completed their degrees.  They had classes up at Grand Canyon University and now ATSU has a whole campus of their own.  Listening, watching, and interacting with these PAs gave me a glimpse of what my ten year reunion will be like.  I look forward to the day where I'm confident in my profession, understand my purpose in caring for people, and fully grasp the medical knowledge I need to practice.  There is still so much to learn, but hope is brighter that I will make it there. Enjoy one day at a time!

Good to be up and running again!

I've been without my blog these past few days, and I didn't realized how attached I was until I was unable to access it.  My brother was updating a few things for our family blogging, which is much appreciated.  I always email or call him with any questions or concerns I have about the blog or computer stuff.  It's great knowing that someone else is willing and able to help me out.

My trip to UT was good.  I loved seeing the family and spending some time with my parents.  Here's cute picture from Henry's Blessing Day and Oscar's Birthday of some of the grandkids with Dad.  That was a very special day.  I loved seeing everyone over the break.

I have enjoyed being back in the sunshine, though.  I played hooky one day last week and started my break a little early.  We had a couple days off to attend the state PA conference in Sedona if we wished.  I opted to stay in Mesa and have a little Sarah time.  I spent a much needed girl night with my old roommates.  We ate the usually but tasty cheese crisps, gossiped about the love and latest heartbreaks, laughed about old memories, and talked about some exciting upcoming events (but I can't divulge those details just yet).  Over the week, I went to the park with Gidget, another park with Max, the Easter pageant with Rachel and friends, a Hawaiian festival in Phoenix with Daina and friends, a lunch speaker/seminar on "Body, Mind, Spirit," a spring training game with a bunch of classmates, dinner and a movie with Amanda and Amber, and one short night studying.

This was my first experience of spring training.  We saw the Cubs play the Padres.  It was tied 2-2 until the end of the ninth inning.  Go Cubs!  That was a great day tailgating, playing washers, enjoying a kosher dog, answering trivia questions, and relaxing on the grass!

I loved listening to the speaker.  Dr. H reminded me of how crucial my role as a provider can be and how beneficial my compassion to healthcare can be for my patients.  Those small moments of encouragement change my perspective long enough to penetrate my heart, touch my soul, and give the added assurance that I can make a difference.

I definitely took more Sarah time than was initially planned, but it was productive and much enjoyed moments of school-free/stress-free time. However, as the day began early this morning, I realized just how much I am going to have to rely on those cherished memories of freedom over the next intense ten weeks of school.  My professors keep saying that the program is going to get easier, but they're really lying to us.  Each quarter we have harder classes and more classes.  I hope I find way to keep my attention during our 9-10 hour days, and then a balance between these classes, studying afterwards for those long lectures, and then of course the normal events of life (laundry, budgeting, groceries, dating, sleeping, family, etc.).  With all this stress, how am I ever going to get rid of these tension knots and knee/back pain?  Speaking of which, I better get on the go with the start of this weeks "to do" list, and maybe that will relieve some of the anxiety and anticipation of this upcoming quarter.

Reasons

Reasons why I love having Rachel here...

1. She’s super fun

2. Listens to me vent at the end of the day

3. Distracts me from unimportant mumbo-jumbo

4. Comforts me when I’ve had a hard day

5. Keeps things real – helps me see the right perspective

6. Has great stories

7. Very adventurous and social (She’s gone out on more dates than me…and she says she’s shy…ha!)

8. Loves me even when I’m a stress-case and get easily agitated

9. Takes pictures and has an uploader…yeah!

10. She's a great friend

Reasons why I love dating...

1. Great conversation – You know, the one that you never want to stop!

2. Attraction – Butterflies – Chemistry

3. Hope

4. Free dinner – I love eating out, but living on student loans doesn’t permit it very often

5. A night away from Bill (my computer)

Sarah, Deanna, Kari - Girls Night before Deanna's wedding

Reasons why I dislike dating...

1. Never knowing if you are expressing your feelings correctly

“Am I being too forward? Forward enough? Is he interested? Are we just friends? Am I interested?”

2. The Game

3. Awkward conversations that go even more sour?!?

4. Playing “Twenty Questions!” – I hate first dates and the “Getting to know you” crap – I just want it to be past that stage

Reasons why I love school...

1. Learning - most of my classes are intriguing and can keep my attention – and when that happens I learn. I love learning especially when it’s something I am interested in. And I am fascinated at how the body works and then how it compensates when it isn’t working. The human body is amazing.

2. Great friends – I wouldn’t last long without my classmates – I love the great friendships, the class drama, the parties and knowing that all 70 of us are going through the same rollercoaster ride.

3. Acing my classes

4. Openness - friends that are willing to explain concepts time and again

Derik with Gidget

Charlotte and Scott playing Nerts on Game Night

Jennica, Steve, Kristen

Alyssa and John

Reasons why I dislike school...

1. Days that are SO hard that I want to drop out – I don’t like feeling like a failure

2. I hate spending hours on a subject and realizing that nothing has sunk in

3. Is this really what I want to do the rest of my life?

4. Exams - I'm not a good test taker

5. Self-doubt – Am I really gaining the knowledge I need to treat patients correctly?

Reasons why I love U7th ward...

1. Bishop Sandstrom – he’s so understanding and willing to help any of us

2. That everyone isn’t 18

3. I can go to learn, if I’m willing to learn

4. Building friendships

5. Great activities – ward devotionals, FHE games, wassail party, dinner groups, speed dating, pool party

6. And of course meeting new people (especially new guys)

Reasons why I love AZ…

1. Sunshine

2. Family – JP, MA, Max, Ian, and Rachel

3. Roommates – Natasha and Gidget

4. Friends – What would I do without great friends

5. School – great sense of perspective in my life

6. Home – over the years it’s starting to feel like home

Natasha, Gidget, Sarah

Angels & Airwaves is a  rock band fronted by former Blink-182 and Box Car Racer guitarist/vocalist Tom DeLonge.  The band includes guitarist David Kennedy, notably from Over My Dead Body, Hazen Street and Box Car Racer, former Offspring drummer Atom Willard and former 30 Seconds to Mars bassist Matt Wachter.  And my recent favorite band.  The band has released two albums thus far: We Don't Need to Whisper (2006)and I-Empire (2007).  Check out their site at www.angelsandairwaves.com and let me know what you think of there tunes.

The holiday has come and gone in  a breeze.  It was delightful to be home, see family and friends, and enjoy the brisk weather for only a short time.  I enjoyed playing games, visiting, reading, sleeping, and eating tasty foods.  I loved playing with all the kids (barbies, coloring, chase, tickles, and snuggles) especially when it was nap time or when the parents took over.  It was definitely fun watching "Enchanted" with Ella on my lap.  She was enveloped by the princess and the scary witch, but enjoyed her own popcorn and drink.  It was also fun to watch Shaelea, Abbie, and Kenzie create all sorts of inventions together while Oscar found a new hero in Alex.  I was impressed by Alex's guitar talent and commitment.  Of course, I enjoyed my day cooking and baking with mom before the family came.  It was fun learning how to make pie crust and chatting about my life's love, drama, and latest knowledge on everything.  And then spending time walking and chatting with dad, mom, and Marlene.  The few days I got outside running or walking were chilly.  I was glad I didn't overstuff myself on Thanksgiving day, like Phil, so that I could get up for a decent jog the next morning.  It was GREAT catching up on needed sleep, but it's hard adjusting to be constantly focused without my daily nap.      

It seems as time is flying by.  Third quarter has begun with an usual schedule.  Every day seems to be a bit different, but somehow they have coordinated it so we get all classes intermixed through the next few months.  We have Pathophysiology, Pharmocology, Nutrition, H&P Lecture & Lab, Pulmonology, Dermatology, Genitourology, and Neurology.  An intense, but do-able class load, right?  I'm not expecting to have much of a life this quarter.  Neurology is for one full week before Christmas break with our final two days after we get back.  I'm not expecting much of a holiday.

My newest nephew, Ian William Scoville, is so precious.  He was born November 12, 2007, 6 lbs 12 oz, 21 inches.  It has been fun to spend a couple days with him.  JP and Mary Ann have said that Max is adjusting to the change after constantly asks "What's tat?" while pointing at Ian for the first few days.  I'm glad to live close by so that I can visit occasionally for hugs and play time.  I try to make it over before it's too late in the day - else Max isn't the most pleasant child. 

(L to R): Sarah, Daina, Kari, Jenny, Trisha 

Old roommate gathering at Jenny's latest casa.  A couple weeks ago we were all able to get together, probably for the one of the last times before Jenny gets married in January.  It was so fun chatting on the bed and fixing quesadilla's together.  I miss our talks and silly times.  Things are definitely changing: Jenny getting married, Daina in Tempe, me in Mesa, and Trisha and Kari will soon be transferring to ASU.  It's interested to think that a year ago I was wondering what I was doing in AZ.  Now it's all about school.  I'm glad that Dr. Rhey didn't fire me and made me stick out the hard times.  Look where it's got me! 

(L to R): Erin Benjamin, Sarah, Shea, Erin Beckman, Megan, Tiare

(L to R): Megan, Alyssa, Jenna, Sarah

A night out with the ladies after completely 2nd quarter finals. Yeah, we made it!  That was a rough week.  We had 7 exams in three days.  We had already finished the GI final and OSCEs the week before, but my body and mind weren't capable of functioning after that Wednesday.  I remember going to lunch with Derik and Kristen afterwards and discussing how we could talk/think about anything but we mostly talked about school.  I guess it's hard to think of anything else when school is all that's on our minds.  Dancing that night with the ladies was super fun.  It was a nice refresher from our classroom profiles!

I'm taking a short, needed break from studying. 

It's been a pretty good week.  I went country dancing (first time in months) and loved it.  I wish I had more time to go.  It was great seeing some old friends and I just love being spinned around.  It was a perfect way to distract me from the upcoming OSCE's. 

I went to the dental clinic today and had my teeth cleaned.  Now my gums are sensitive and I have to get some teeth fixed.  At least it's a little cheaper since I'm a student.  What was I thinking, though, the week before finals?  Oh well, it only took like two hours and it needed to be done.

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed at the moment - there is so much stuff for me to know and so little time to go over everything.  I can't believe the quarter has come to an end.  We had our last lecture yesterday and last lab today.  It has been a busy week with finals starting last Mon and OSCE's on Thursday.  Only 7 more exams to finish by next Wed.  But I was very relieved once the practical exam was over.  I have a hard time coming up with differential diagnoses and follow-up questions when I'm put on the spot.  All I can think about are the symptoms/signs the patient has revealed on the history.  I hope it comes more naturally with continued exposure to problems.  I'll have to bring my instruments home over Thanksgiving and practice!  

Today in lab we practiced putting in ear wicks, cleaning out cerumen (or foreign bodies), how to treat epistaxis (both anterior and posterior bleeds), obtaining throat swabs for office tests/lab cultures, and how to view the epiglottis and larynx.  Unfortunately, I didn't ever get to see the larynx on my partner - his were very posterior and I need to practice my technique.  Let me tell you, though, the numbing spray is disgusting.  It did prevent me from gagging when my partner pushed my uvula back against my throat, though - I didn't even know he'd done it.  But the taste was horrific.  The interesting things we learn at school, eh?  At least now I can inform my patients of the burn and taste.
 
I found out that my friend Brian is engaged.  It is definitely the season of my friends to get married.  I'm excited that he finally found someone to marry.  I remember when I first met him (like 8 years ago) that he was so anti-marriage.  So this is a big step for him.  She's cool and she had some good retaliation ideas when Steve broke up with me last February in UT.  The thought was nice :)

Gidget, my roommates dog, had a rough morning on Wed.  I guess she was convulsing like with seizures.  Tasha freaked out and rushed her to the vet.  Nothing was wrong, Gidget just hadn't been eating properly.  So...Gidget went back to the breeder for a few days to learn how to eat.  But she came home tonight.  Hopefully she'll be ok from now on.

I'm still waiting to get the phone call that Mary Ann has gone into labor.  I'm sure she is anxiously waiting to make that phone call.  I was getting so excited for my sleep over with Max, but I guess that will happen another time.  MA's mother comes into town, so they won't need me to come over.  I'm looking forward to the new little guy.  Hopefully he comes before I head home to UT for Thanksgiving. 

 I better get back to Pharmacology.  There are so many drugs with so many different names (chemical, generic, trade), indications, side effects, contraindications, drug-drug interactions, and any other miscellaneous information we need to know about each of them.  How is it all going to stay in my brain?  I don't know.

Lab Day

Today was our injection and venipuncture lab.  We got to practice giving (and getting) shots and drawing blood.  This is all the practice we get until rotations.  Hopefully it was enough.  We practiced intradermal (just under the skin), subcutaneous (in the underlying dermis layer, but before the muscle), intramuscular (in the muscle), and then venipuncture in the antecubital area and anywhere you could palpate a vein.  Some are more painful than others.  Now I know what my patients are going through, and hopefully I'll be able to help them know what to expect.  I'm sure I need more practice - you want to help me out?  I'll be nice.  Promise!

School Challenges

It is HARD getting back into the swing of school things.  My attention span is shot after an hour of lecture (they are usually 3-4 hours), I am constantly tired, find any and every excuse to prolong the "staring at the computer screen" aka studying, and dislike the blasted heat.  I am already stressed, yet haven't found a funtional time valuing outlet.  Yesterday I made 3 dozen banana nut muffins and sushi rolls.  Today I took a nap and had a doctors appt.  At least it is just the first week & it is Labor Day on Monday.  I better be on a schedule by next week or else it is going to be a rough semester.

 I am hoping my lack of interest is from learning a lot of introductory material and that next weeks lectures will be of more value to me.  It is always hard for me to jump right into classes, especially 3 hours long classes, because by the end we have touched on many different topics.  We move right along to more indepth things without any time to process what was being taught.

Anyway, I think that is one of the challenges of graduate school - finding time to manage the overload of material gathering in my small brain.  School things will be falling out one side.

Educating patients on how to use prescribed meds!

School has begun!  My class load has doubled this semester, but I am only at 24 credit hours.  Each class is once a week, except Pharm which is twice.  There is good and bad in this because each class is like four hours long (my attention span does not last long) and it will be easy to put things off.  I cannot get in a bad habit of that.  But nice that each day will be different!

In Pharm, we are learning about medications, educating the patient on their disease/problem, evaluating benefits and risks, and encouraging the patient to take a needed medication.  Here is a clip from my class today.  I guess it would be wise for us as providers to educate the patient on how to use the medication properly.




 

What was I thinking...

Check out some pictures from my latest adventure - skydiving from 13000 ft! It was quite the experience. From the ground we watched the first group jump. Then we got all fastened up in our lovely get-up and headed toward the rickety airplane. That's when I thought I might change my mind - it was so small and what was I thinking. I was headed for the my death - I was sure of it. And I had definitely signed my life away with all the paperwork. Once we took off and started to climb in elevation my heart started pounding and butterflies were entering my stomach. I hoped that I didn't pee my pants when we actually jumped! The time ticked by and all of the sudden I was at the open door for a slip second before Dean, my instructor, pushed me over the edge and we were free falling! We were falling so fast that I couldn't even hear myself scream. That minute lastest so long. Once we hit 5000 ft we pulled the parachute cord and started gliding and turning! That's when the shock of it started to wear off and my stomach got real squirmy. I don't think that spinning in circles was the best idea, but I wanted the most from my experience. I took it all in and before I new it I was preparing to land. I was hoping that I wouldn't break my leg or face plant when we hit the ground. Luckily I only slide in on my bottom. My legs were so wobbly but I was still pumped by the experience. Anyway, check my photos out on flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahscoville/

I guess I'm secretary!!!

Nominations were in and nobody had signed up for a few school government slots, so jokingly I said "I'll be secretary."  Before I new it my name was passed down the rows of classmates and these are the results.  I hope it doesn't take too much time from studying.   I'm not really sure what entails my "soon to be responsibilities" as secretary.  What did I get myself into?

The Class society is as follows:

President: Shea Hilger VP: Erin Benjamin Secretary: Sarah Scoville Treasurer: Stacey Libricz SGA rep: Beth Hill SGA rep: Megan Hoover Sunshine Committee: Avi Mallin

The Kettel Society is as follows: President: Kristen Owens Immediate past president: Kristen Young VP: TJ Sirrine Secretary: Kelly Brannin Treasurer: Betsey Huebler ASAPA rep: Carolyn Griffiiths (1st year) Ashley McComber (2nd year) Diversity Chair: Cindy Huynh AOR rep: Erin Beckman EAO: Latisha Leonard Bernier HOD: Ian McLeod

On the downhill for summer quarter...

 It is official! No, I am not getting married. I am on the downward slope of my first quarter. I can’t believe that mid-terms are over (thankfully) and finals approaching too soon. I have two more weeks of lecture and then finals. I hope that I retain some of the vast amount of information I am trying to absorb within this short time frame. I have only had one break down…thanks for listening mom. And I am feeling way more optimistic these days. The information is starting to piece together. I was feeling so good about things that I took the whole night off of studying. I got my hair cut and went to institute. Best part: the lesson was on continuing your education; yet, keeping a balance in all areas of life. Good thing I made it out for one night. I socialized, was spiritually fed, and got away from “Bill” for a night. The highlight of my night was seeing old friends, especially ex-bfs (hate that I still get flustered), and then some awkward moments with guys that our “dates went bad.” Gotta love the YSA of Mesa even if it is a small circle of friends I have accumulated - someone always knows someone I know - good and bad.

Encompassing all the awkward moments with the shear joy of socialization, my night turned out quick delightful. I am glad I was able to enjoy learning from the Spirit while in the company of some amazing people. I truly am blessed and need to remember that a little more often. There is much to enjoy in life while keeping the destination in mind!

Last night I did go to dinner with my old roommates. That was fabulous catching up with them and feeling like a normal person for a moment. Only part of the time was I worrying about how much valuable time I was using freely, instead of studying. I knew there was going to be a quiz in at least one of my classes. So I jetted from my friends much earlier than I would have liked, and headed home to review the endocrine system and GI tract. Good thing because we sure had a quiz!

I find it fascinating how the body is so complex and still works so smoothly. It baffles my mind how intricate our body is even within the smallest details. We have been learning about the GI tract, the different components within that system, and the organs that work from outside the system to help it function properly. Not only is it phenomenal that there are different organs working together to accomplish one set goal among there individual functions, but there are numerous things happening within each organ. The stomach, for example, is degrading proteins with specific enzymes, while producing HCl and intrinsic factor from the parietal cells, and also secreting gastrin from the chief cells, during which tone is maintained to move the food into the small intestine. Where in turn, there are more gastric juices secreted from the pancreas into the duodenum to slow the process of tone to allow for optimal absorption of nutrients. Again, I find it amazing that the villi contain specialized cells that help in sustaining a homeostatic balance through know what to absorb and having the required ions or electrolytes present for that absorption to take place.  This is all occuring to help with the propulsion of food through the motility, secretion, digestion, and absorption that happens within this system.  Wow!  These are just a few of the many concepts that I am learning about along with how to apply these notions on a symptomatic patient in the clinical setting. Granted, most days it is overwhelming the volume of knowledge we are to grasp on to, but absolutely interesting. I love making a connection from one small concept to the large scheme of how the body is controlled and functions. Our creation is divine!

Bridal Shower & Mid-terms

As the maid of honor for my best friends upcoming wedding, I get to throw her a bridal shower/bachelorette party among other responsibilities.  Her roommate and I have come up with a few ideas of what will work best.  Since we are all in graduate school and will be completing finals the week of the shower, there is a complication on what day would work best.  In order for us to have this before Amanda, the bride to be, leaves for UT we will needed to have it on Wed.  That causes a "stress" factor in my life since I have my Med Physiology Wed at 1 pm and Anatomy practical Thurs morning at 7 am.  We have decided that one of the games should be "Play pin the muscle on the jackass" with a picture of my ex.  He still has lots of muscles, even if they are scrawny.  It would be quite entertaining and educational.  I have been laughing hysterically at the thought even though we will not be playing this game.  I am sure there may be other ways around my studying : )

I have been very undedicated to my studying these past few days.  Mid-terms wiped me out.  It's been very hard to concentrate when my brain is full of extra intracranial pressure (ok, it just feels like it some days).   I also think I have a subdural hematoma after my ungraceful, rigorous fall from skateboarding just a few days before school started.  What a way to start school off, huh?  I have had continuous headaches, body aches, tension, decreased appetite, and emotional breakdowns.  Then again, that could all be from the change of lifestyle that has recently occurred with school starting along with other changes. 

 After my most difficult exam on Friday I couldn't even look at my score.  I was positive I failed.  I've done terrible on the quizzes and decided that my study patterns just weren't up to par.  What was one more day of studying going to do?  Plus, if I was going to look at my grade, it wasn't going to be when all my classmates were around to see my sad little tears.  That would happen in the privacy of my own bedroom.   I waited.  My peers couldn't believe that I hadn't checked my score out, but I knew we still had 4 hours of lecture and I needed to be able to focus.  I continued to wait.  The day dragged on with loads of new information about the endocrine system and GI tract.  Finally we were freed from Saurago B (our designated classroom with speckled seagreen wallpaper and uncomfortable plastic chairs).  My eyes were burning from staring at my computer and the sunshine made it worse.  But I had made it all day and carefully drove home.  As soon as I walked in the door I checked my grade.  "Phew," I sighed outloud as I realized I had passed.  A smile crossed my face.  Definitely didn't get an A, but survived the first round of mid-terms.  There are still many more to come, but what a relief.  It gave me the added reassurance that I can accomplish this current set of tasks at hand.  I just need to continue with one day at a time.  Still I haven't gotten back into that routine of studying again.  I have been sparatically studying/reading throughout the weekend, but am not as focused as I need to be since I have another exam next Thurs.  Ahhh!  Time goes by so fast, yet each week feels like a whole month.  I better get into the groove or I'll be far behind.  So much to learn!

Insomnia

It’s frustrating – when I want to go to sleep my mind starts racing and when I need to stay awake my eyes get droopy. My intense school schedule has intervened with my sleep schedule. I guess staying up all hours of the night restless with anxiety of how mid-terms are going to pan out can put my body into stress mode. On top of that, I have had deal with the dogs trying to sleep on the bed with me and barking at who knows what all hours of the night. Then I got to get up at 4:30 am these past two days to finalize my reviewing, feed the dogs, get ready for the day, pack a lunch, and head off to my 7:00 am exams and lecture-filled day. By the time my afternoon class starts I am zoned out and clueless to what the professor is discussing. That just puts me behind because then I have to find time to read over another 100-150 slides before the next lecture. Oh, what a delight to be in school again. I’m looking forward to spending my 4th of July out by the pool with my books and laptop. Hopefully I’ll break away for a bit to visit JP, MA, and Max. It’s always nice to see them. They are a much needed distraction! I went country dancing tonight. I love the dancing and dislike the dating drama. It is still hard for me to see Steve. And apparently he’s moved on, just like that. How guys do it? I don’t know. Trust me, if I did know, I’d be doing it too! I guess these are a lot of thoughts that start floating through my brain when I am trying to fall asleep. I have plenty of things on my mind and feelings in my heart, but it all comes down to me just accepting that we’re not ever going to be together. Even with all the hoping and praying and wishing, I really don’t want him to come back to me. Ok, I do, but at the same time I don’t. It is just hard to see him move forward in life when I don’t have anyone that I am slightly interested in dating once, let alone seriously. I do hope he is happy, though. He is an amazing guy with all sorts of potential who deserves to find the best in life. But it’s a good thing my calling in life right now is to be focused on school. What a blessing to have school as a distraction. I’d be so distraught if my mind wasn’t concentrating on more important matters of my future. Logically I know it’s for the best, but emotionally it will just take me time to move forward. One day at a time. On a lighter note, I have finished two mid-terms and one pop quiz this week. I have only one more mid-term and a group discussion/project for this week. Wow! It’s amazing how fast the weeks fly by, but at the same time I feel consumed with the vast overload of knowledge I am learning. In one week for each class we cover as much information as I did in undergrad for a month. That is a lot of things to remember. Pretty much my mid-terms were like a comprehensive semester final. It will be nice to sleep in tomorrow. That is, if the dogs let me. Every morning they poke there head over my bed and start jabbing me with their paws. It’s cute, but at the same time annoying. I want my sleep especially since I have insomnia these days. I am about tired, so I am putting my computer to sleep. Happy 4th!

I am not so different!

It is amazing how the many experiences I have had over the years relate to what I am learning in school.  Hearing about the oddities that are realities makes my stories not so unique.  I do not feel as out of place knowing that other people have had similar, yet different experiences.  Not that I have every really felt out of place, except during those unfortunate middle school years, but I have had some interesting experiences in my day.  For example, I had an allergic reaction to milk and broke out in eczema, or when the doctor found maggots in my ears, or the anxiety and fear before my thyroid surgery.  These strange, unique experiences will help me face the challenges that are presented to me as a physician’s assistant.  I look forward to those cases.  I can not wait for all the excitement in my life to begin.  And every day in class, I learn something new that will pertain to those future days.