I am a fan of the new HBO series “The Pitt” and believe it is poised to win multiple awards this Emmy season. The show resonates with me, illustrating the dedication of healthcare professionals and their collaborative efforts to save lives. Having spent time in the emergency room (ER), watching this series has given me a fresh perspective on the immense challenges faced by healthcare professionals. The staff can be overwhelmed, particularly given the nursing and physician shortages impacting the country.
A memorable ER visit.
A few years ago, I experienced a hematoma in my right groin after a procedure to replace my right aortic valve. During the procedure, a wire was inserted through my groin to facilitate the placement of the new valve. After a stay in the hospital, I complained of pain in my groin area to the “attending doctor” and he advised me to apply ice to reduce the swelling and take Tylenol, and he sent me home.
Later that evening, after I ate dinner, watched some TV, took a shower, and headed to bed, I felt a sudden pop in my right groin along with a warm liquid sensation. Alarmed, I immediately sat down and told my husband to call 911. Fortunately, the fire station is around the corner and the paramedics arrived within seconds. I could hear the sirens drawing closer, a sound that always makes me tear up because help is on the way.
Knowing that a bleed can be life-threatening, I asked the paramedic to place a sandbag on my groin and told him about the hematoma. He promptly followed my request; anyone who has undergone femoral catheter removal understands that a sandbag on the site is necessary, and one must lie flat with a sandbag while it clots.
Given my recent valve replacement, the focus shifted quickly to my heart. I desperately needed an IV as my blood pressure was low, and I also needed fluids. My recent hospitalization and the many pokes made it extremely difficult to establish an IV line in my already compromised veins. Since I had an oxygen mask on, I motioned to the ER doctor with my hand indicating I had something to say. He lifted the mask slightly so he could hear me. In a low whisper I told him to insert the IV into my neck. He said, “Okay,” and was able to establish a line quickly. I was so glad he listened to me. As a long-time patient, I have found that this is not always the case in a new healthcare setting where I am not known.
Blood transfusions were ordered stat to replenish my red blood cells. Amidst the chaos and being very scared, one of the most challenging aspects was feeling like I was freezing to death. Eventually, I was stabilized and transferred to the ICU for a surgical evaluation of the hematoma site. There, I was provided with warm blankets, and the nurse had more time to make me comfortable now that I was stable and not losing blood.
This whole scenario could have been a scene on “The Pitt.”
While waiting in the ER to be seen, they asked me a series of important questions regarding my allergies, surgeries, and medications. I can be a bit loopy from pain or a fever so sometimes those details can be difficult to remember.
After many years of hospital experiences, I have realized how important it is to be prepared before heading to the ER. If possible, it is beneficial to have someone accompany us, especially since we often seek care when we are in pain or are not feeling our best. Having a list of doctors, medications, and allergies readily available can make a significant difference. Even if I typically visit the same hospital where my records are kept, having backup information is good idea. I am aware that every visit will possibly be a training session.
My patient portal is an invaluable resource; it contains all the information I need. I share my portal password with a few trusted friends and my husband, allowing them to access my information and advocate on my behalf. Additionally, I maintain a one-page summary of my medical history, diagnoses, and surgeries.
This documentation is particularly crucial given my history of multiple dialysis access points. It is essential to be aware of what is happening to make sure the medical team avoids placing a blood pressure cuff on the wrong arm or using an IV in a potentially problematic location. Although I have older access points that are no longer functional, this also can be confusing for healthcare workers. If they are unaware of my history, they will err on the side of caution and choose to avoid that arm altogether. Since I have notoriously difficult veins for blood draws or IV placement, having all options available is helpful.
Being prepared not only alleviates my stress and that of my friends and family but also empowers me to navigate the healthcare system and advocate for myself. I just have to remember my username and password. The older I get, the harder that seems!
So many experiences have heightened my appreciation for the hard work and commitment that healthcare providers dedicate to our care. I always remember it is a medical practice, and doctors are practicing medicine on me. The more we can be our own advocate, the more healthcare professionals can effectively do their job.
“The Pitt” effectively portrays the emotions and challenges faced in a day at the emergency room. While I find Noah Wyle, who plays Dr. Robb, to be both handsome and intelligent, my favorite character is Dr. King, played by Taylor Deardon. She consistently strives to learn as much as possible from her patients, and most importantly, she listens. Head nurse Dana Evans (Katherine LaNasa) reminds me of the caring nurses I grew up with. I love her. The entire cast is exceptional.
If you don’t have HBO, they offer a 30-day free trial, making it well worth a watch.
Lori Hartwell founded Renal Support Network (RSN) in 1993 and is the host of KidneyTalk® Podcast. Lori was diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of two, spent 13 years on dialysis and is now doing well with her fourth kidney transplant. She is the author of Chronically Happy and has numerous editorials and peer-reviewed articles published. Lori lives with her husband Dean, four dogs and a parrot. She loves to spend her free time being creative by making jewelry and painting.
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