Why I came to UAB?
My experience during the pharmacy practice residency program was truly invaluable and unforgettable. Overall, UAB has given me the added knowledge and confidence I needed to practice in a challenging clinical setting. I decided to accept a position with UAB because they provided for numerous career development opportunities.
One thing I would tell a pharmacist interested in UAB
If you're interested in UAB, we don't define our staff as decentralized vs. centralized staff. We are all responsible for patient care. Each and every day is unique, because you get to see the direct effect of your recommendations.
Tell about one event while working at UAB that has changed you?
A code was called after a patient had started to go downhill. As I walked in the door, the doctors were performing CPR. While I was handing over medications, it was chaos trying to get everything in order. After about 20 minutes of doing everything, the doctor called time of death. Someone then said "Do you see that?" There was a heartbeat, and then a faint femoral pulse appeared. CPR was started again and medications were being pushed. It was an emotional shock to see someone on the brink of death, but to see the entire medical team working collaboratively was remarkable.
What are some characteristics of a UAB Pharmacist?
Good communication skills, enjoying helping others, enthusiasm to learn/teach, resourcefulness, detail-oriented
What has surprised you the most about the support you've received as a Pharmacist?
The entire medical team is extremely appreciative of everything you do. We work hard to build trust with the hospital staff, but once it is established, doctors and nurses appreciate the knowledge and abilities that you bring to clinical practice.
How would you describe a typical day as a UAB Pharmacist?
I start the day by rounding with one of the medical teams, discussing patients, and making recommendations. Once that's done, I review medication orders, resolve medication problems and monitor patients on certain medications. Also, I review a large volume of medication orders before being given to patients. The stress is trying to be careful, yet quick. The job is complex in that I must know about many drugs, how to monitor them, dose them, watch for interactions, etc. I also have to make many recommendations throughout the day to doctors regarding changing or adjusting medication orders.
One book on my bedside table?
A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers
What I do when I'm not at work?
SHOPPING!
If I had a starring role in any play, film, or television show, I would be?
Man vs. Wild
My favorite quote is?
"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift"
In high school, I would have been voted
"Most Likely To BE IN HEELS"