Day 04: A Day of Firsts at OPD

My fourth day of immersion was a new experience for me because we started our new rotation, which happens every three days. However, it still depends on whether the other group wants to rotate or stay at their station.

Elizabeth and I decided to go to the OPD because the work there sounded interesting. It involves interacting with different patients — children, adults, and even babies. But honestly, when 8 a.m. came, I felt very nervous. I am really shy and awkward when talking to other people, but I knew I had to face this and step out of my comfort zone.

Since there were four of us assigned there, the work was not too heavy because we were able to assist all the patients. It was actually a busy day for the OPD staff. Mondays and Thursdays are usually their scheduled check-up days, so many patients come to the RHU. There are still patients on other days, but Mondays and Thursdays are especially crowded.

We were very thankful, especially me and Elizabeth, because on our first day, we were guided while checking vital signs. Some students from Dapdap National High School who were also on immersion helped us, along with two kuyas who were doing their OJT at the RHU. Whenever patients asked questions that we could not answer or there are errors in taking blood pressure, we approached them, and they were very kind and approachable.

Overall, my first day in the OPD was tiring, fun, and a bit nerve-wracking. Even though I felt shy, I learned many things, especially how to take blood pressure correctly and how to interact with patients of different ages.