I am quite certain that there is a system for handling patients in the "reception" area. I just don't understand at this point. I was bewildered for most of my time observing today. I have no idea how the nurse (yes, nurse in the singular tense) has a grasp of when patients come and go, see the provider, have orders, etc. I actually miss patient armbands. There are charts and papers everywhere. The Tanzanian nursing students are wandering aimlessly and directionless around the room, adding to the craziness.
The disorganization, I think, I could handle if I felt as though the staff agreed that there could be a more efficient way to run reception. I went to lunch feeling completely discouraged that I will be able to help improve anything with the cooperation of the nurses. Things improved after lunch. I can't quite put my finger on what directly made the improvement but things seemed to run more smoothly. The afternoon nurse seemed more receptive to us (I've been working with one of the Norwegian nurses). This helped me end the afternoon on a high note. Tomorrow I will go to work a little later and stay later to be able to work with both am and pm shifts. The challenge is to work with the nurses. I'm on their side and want to help them and their patients as best as I can.
You've seen the commercials for Insanity workouts? Bet you didn't think Insanity would make its way to Tanzania. Me either. Yet, 4pm found me working out to Insanity with Norwegians and Tanzanians. There are moments in life where the randomness of the situation just makes me laugh. A couple of us followed the workout with a walk around Haydom Mountain. Dinner consisted of beans, rice, and mango. I played cards for a bit after dinner. The Norwegians are eager to teach me new games and their language. Of course, all of the words I'm learning are really useful- "t-shirt tan," "flower," "cake," etc. It's pretty fun.
End of the day as seen from Haydom Mountain:
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