Another Research Study

Yep I was in another one. This one did not require a fat sample out of my rear but it did involve two 24 stays in a hospital with multiple blood draws. The study I was involved in was testing a medication’s effect on individual genetics. Apparently certain people carry a gene that is tied to the release of an enzyme which prohibits the body's ability to absorb this medication.

I didn't find out if I carried the enzyme or not but I did find out what it's like to have an IV in your arm. They drew blood so often, instead of poking me each time they inserted an IV with a short tub & a locking cap. When they needed blood they would unlock the cap & suck it from the tube.

I discovered that certain nurses don't laugh when I screamed "OW that hurts! You aren't a real Nurse!" while they draw my blood. The nurse I pulled that on got even with me. She made such a bloody mess when she put in my IV that when I looked down I almost passed out, which did make her laugh.

I also discovered they inject saline into the tube to clean it out. Enough saline is injected that it travels up tube and into your arm. Almost a second or two after they start to inject I could taste it in my mouth. I could also taste plastic.

They had to wake me up at 3 a.m. for a blood draw. I learned I can't go back to sleep after having a blood draw at 3 a.m. & hospital beds aren't too comfy. I also learned the food in hospitals is amazing!! The staff would offer me snacks and keep asking me if I had ordered all the food I really wanted. It was like an all you can eat buffet with nurses & hospital rooms.

For those of you in Colorado, who are interested in extra cash & contributing to medicine or science, check out the UCHSC study's page: http://www.uchsc.edu/vivat/studies.html. They offer info about studies, who qualifies, and who to contact if you have questions. Participants of every age are needed and for a variety of medical related issues.