So what's the E.R. REALLY like?

I just got home from my first shift in the emergency department at the University of Utah. What's my first impression? I like it! But I don't think I'd actually want to work there. Here are a few of my observations:
First of all, it is boring MOST of the time. Sure you have people coming in for minor things all day, but really exciting cases only happen maybe once a shift. I don't mind the lack of excitement, (after all I am someone who wouldn't mind just working in a doctors office) but there is an important thing missing from the ER. I noticed that the doctors go from person to person without spending time actually getting to know the patient. They pop in and give an oral or rectal exam or something like that and then POOF! they're on to the next patient. A family practice Doc may not get to deal with really exciting cases but at least they get to know their patients.
The thing I like about being a volunteer is that I get to talk to people without any fear of wasting time. Today I chatted with a gentleman for almost an hour about all kinds of stuff. I was just keeping him company while he waited for a CT scan. I love that! I've always loved getting to know and talking to interesting people. I like to hear about where they've been and what they've learned. So I love being a volunteer in the ER. But so far I definitely don't want to work there.
No, I don't get to watch emergency surgeries or anything either. As soon as airmed lands I'm supposed to stay out of the way until things calm down. I get to watch from a distance though. It's all good.
I hope I like the Orthopedic Center as much! I'll find out on wednesday.

The ER is pretty cool

So I had my volunteer orientation in the emergency department today. I'm excited to work there! It was so cool to see how that part of the hospital works. Even though I only scratched the surface today I was already able to make some observations about jobs I thought were cool, and some others I don't want to touch with a thirty foot pole. Radiology is out. Respiratory therapy is in. I can't wait to keep learning and observing! As a volunteer I do a lot of scut work, but hey I need to start at the bottom and work my way up. YEE-HAW!!

I'm in

Well I have been accepted as a volunteer up at the University hospital. I will be working one day a week in the emergency department and one day a week in the orthopedic center. Cool! I'm excited to get my feet back on the ground working in a hospital. I'm hoping I will learn even more about what exactly I want to do...and what I definately want to avoid. Hopefull I'll make some good connections with people at the hospital too. I'm excited! I should start in the next 2 weeks.