Today I was nervous because i had to give my first lecture. I gave it on Asthma – the students were very quiet but some of the docs asked questions. Then I met Dr Claire who was from Limavady (My fathers home town in N. Ireland) what a small world!
Next I had clinic. I was with a great nurse that I had been with on Monday who certainy knew the processes and could translate well. I like it when the patients speak English – maybe only 20% of them do. Others speak Swalali or their native language. In school they learn all three languages
After I saw a few patients with just the nurse , the resident doctor came in with a patient as they wanted a consult. Then she stayed and typed for me and generally helped out. I was asked to consult a couple of patients in ER (next door to out patients). Today because I knew a little more of the system and the lay of the land I felt more comfortable. I was also able to refer to an orthopediac surgeon who comes on Wednesday. He seems awesome and was a great resource for the elderly with their arthritis. – I think he did more joint injections than replacements but it helped. ( though cost quite a bit of money for the patient)
I finished out patients at a much more manageable 4.00pm (with Sarah’s help). I was a little hungry but wanted to explore.
Meanwhile Ric was busy with Eric the local electrician. They fixed the autoclave and worked on the prints for the new electrical installation. (I think Eric talks as much as Ric). Ric did get a lunch break so made spagetti bolognese for supper.
At about 5.00 we escaped downtown. It was loud and busy and felt a little sketchy at times. Everyone said hello but then random people would come up to you in the supermarket and want a high five or a photo. It got a little out of hand with the street kids so we decided that was a bad idea.
After supper – skipbo and bed.