I'm finally working...

     Well I started working in the hospital on Wednesday. At first it was a bit crazy; first days always are. Everyone has been very helpful though, answering my many questions. I am working on a different ward than I was assigned to because the plastic surgeon has not arrived yet, so we are taking maxillo-facial surgery patients right now. I am working day shifts this week, five in a row (7-3:30). The eight hour shifts are nice because it makes for a shorter day. I do miss working three days a week though. We work with day workers who are from Togo, neighboring Benin, Sierra Leone, and Ghana. They come from far away because Mercy Ships pays them decent wages. They help translate for us, as well as cook and clean. They are very helpful! I took care of two toddlers today that were just adorable. I also have been taking care of adults too, but I love the kids. One of my patients, a man in his thirties, was so annoyed with his NG tube that he just pulled it out. I walked up to him and he motioned to me that he did not want it anymore. I had to explain to him with the use of a translator why he still needed the tube. He listened and I placed another one. I have had to greatly exercise my patience here because often times the translators do not understand what I am trying to say and will translate inaccurately to the patient. Also, because I work with nurses from other countries, sometimes we do not understand one another! Its interesting at times; I try to laugh about it. Anyways, I'm glad to be working. It is why I came! I'll be writing more, but now I need to get to bed. I work early tomorrow morning!