Insomnia in the MICU, or: Welcome to 2006!

I've had a strangely hyperactive day in the MICU today. I'm on call New Year's Even--thus far it's been it's usual frenetic pace, but fortunately a group of us (residents) gathered by the windows overlooking the Philadelphia skyline to watch the fireworks go off in the distance at midnight. Somebody had brought in some apple cider bubbly and as we toasted each other with styrofoam cups I have to admit the mood was quite festive and it is a New Year's Eve I shall always remember!

The damage thus far: one asthma/cocaine binge who had to be intubated (placed on the breathing machine) and another gentleman with massive liver failure that we haven't totally figured out yet. Who knows...the night still may hold another surprise for us!

One thing I just cannot understand--although I am already starting to show the signs of chronic fatigue, I am uanble to get a restful sleep in the MICU call room...the atmosphere is just too intense and I have racing thoughts about the many difficult patients under my care...which is why I sit here typing like a fool at 2:15 in the morning during a rare moment of peace...

May 2006 be a year to remember for us all!