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October: Hemostatics and Hurricanes

Wow, did October fly by! After knocking out three modules in three weeks I feel like almost an expert on autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular pharmacology. A lot of the content this month pertained to problems more commonly seen in adult patients, so it was a steep learning curve for this former pediatric scribe. With so many drugs to memorize in a relatively short amount of time, I found that podcasts could be a great resource to turn to when I could not look at a screen anymore and needed to go for a run or do dishes. I shared my playlists with several classmates and plan to keep doing so from here on out.  Learning about CV pharm this month really hit home for me since both my grandparents have AFib and my grandpa recently had a fall. Knowing the mechanisms of antiarrhythmics and reversal agents of the anticoagulants and being able to explain them to my mom really put us all at ease. Dr. Clarkson – I really took the “be able to explain this stuff to your grandma” to heart! 

Since this month was one of rapid-fire exams, I was disappointed to not get out into the community for any service. I am really looking forward to volunteering with another classmate at the Farmers Market in early November and seeing what other opportunities I can find, especially with the end of the semester fast approaching. 

Edit: posting my October blog now since try number one from my phone during the hurricane was a no go - thanks technology and Zeta! What an experience it was to ride out a Category 2 (almost Cat 3!) sheltered in place. 2020 is the year that just keeps on giving, and I feel like a true New Orleans resident now.

Total service hours: 5

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