Rotation 4 FINAL ENTRY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

At the start of this placement I did not know whether I was going to be on a general surgical or cardiothoracic surgical ward which made preparing for this placement a little difficult as I had to study much more broadly on what I could possibly see on either of these wards. I ended up on the cardiothoracic ward which is a very specific area with a greater cardiac influence then what you expect when going on a cardio-respiratory placement. This meant in the first week I had to read up a lot on the different surgeries, cardiac medications, ECG readings and cardiac presentations I could and did see on the ward. I’m really glad I had the opportunity to work on this ward as I really learnt a lot more about the cardiovascular system while still consolidating my respiratory physiotherapy skills. I was exposed to a whole lot of different surgical attachments which was great in working on my organisational skills. As I was on a fairly specialised ward I was able to work with an exceptionally skilled multidisciplinary team, especially the nursing staff who taught me heaps and let me watch removing intercostal and subcostal catheters! I had at times a very busy caseload which I really enjoyed and had the opportunity to help out on other wards like CCU. I had such a great time on this placement; it was challenging and hectic but very rewarding! Can’t believe this year is nearly over!