#THIS IS WHERE TEH ANXIETY SETS IN

[mxkokopuff]

I MAY BE CRINGE BUT I AM FREEEE

[theresivy]

PLEASE HELP: SIGNAL B*OST, D*NATE, OR C*MMISSION ME!!

Listed below are the TL;DR, How to Help, and Full story/Context. I’m sorry I had to resort to this but i have no other choice.

TL;DR version

Please help a mentally disabled fan artist’s family to pay for medical debts for c*ncer, insulin, maintenance meds (for depression, anxiety, etc), and cat food

How to Help

D*nations!!! - I only have P*yPal (also thru K*-fi) and GC*sh! Please dm me for the link or QR code

C*mmission me!!! - I really hate asking for help with nothing to give in return, so preferably please c*mmission me. I havent updated my new set of c*mmission sheet samples BUT heres a short, quick version attached on my post as a pic.

B*y my let-go collection of merchandise!!! (PH-based only please and sorry) - In order to try and make up for the em*tional ab*se me and my mom have to go thru on a daily basis just by living with dad, I ended up in a downward spiral and tried to buy things impulsively since 2020. So, now, we’re paying the price and I have been deeply regretting it ever since. So, plsase please please help buy my palugi (selling for a loss) let-go merchandise, theyre mostly official and am selling for a loss, we badly need the space and especially the funds. Weve only sold less than a half of my stock and it doesnt help that my dad keeps mocking me about it.

Share and S*gnal boost!!! - Tumblr is the only site where i have somewhat of an audience. Please please please help reblog, share, and signal boost.

Full Story/Context

Hi, I’m Theresivy (Teh-reese-ivy), I have been depressed and mentally impaired (among other things) who draws art as a multifandom self-taught fan artist, As of 2020 my mom’s tumor has turned into cancer that has only been given medical attention to in 2022 onwards. And as of then, i have indefinitely become a N,E.E.T for my mom and our finance’s sake while being there by her side. As of now she has gone through FOUR surgeries because more and more unexpected complications keep popping up. She doesnt deserve this, why couldnt it have been me,

We live with my emotionally abusive and manipulative dad (her husband) and our two fur daughters Pancake and Waffles (of which my cats and mom mean more than the world to me) while being forced to live in one of the countless apartment complexes my equally abuse maternal uncle (and his wife, my maternal A-I-L) as we have no other choice. And as such, my dad has been kissing their asses since we were forced to move here more than five years ago.

Both my uncle and my A-I-L took it upon themselves to become the defacto head of my maternal family ever since my maternal grandmother passed just because he became rich thru the means of evil entrepreneur practices. We cant do anything lest we want to get kicked and live on the streets. He is a real-life mastermind as he is always a few steps ahead of us, even making it so that his eldest daughter became his perfect pawn of being his personal lawyer. He always has connections and to them we are merely insects.

My parents and the rest of our family dont really see “artist” as anything that could get money rolling in (and day by day my failed attemptes have been proving them right), and on top of that, they see me being depressed and such as being the “freeloading couch potato”. So they keep bringing up how much of a failure I am. Weve been living in such toxic conditions that my mom has developed this sort of stockholm syndrome type relationship with my dad, and her younger brother (my uncle), and his wife (my A-I-L, her S-I-L). At first i thought i could try and save mom but shes too far gone that she strictly forbids me from fending for myself whenever either of the three try to berate me and drive me to tears and breaking down for the fifth time every week.

All i wish now is to be able to pay back at least some of the debt, for my mom and my fur daughters’ sake, and hopefully my own. I have been in a downwards spiral ever since i have been tolerating being the “odd one out” kid from school. in general, and even in the family, its been literal years and my entire life, im tired of being used and tossed to the side, im tired of being the punching bag of a cosmic joke, and im tired of my disabilities. im tired of being useless to the people i care for the most. so please. help us.

My wish now is to be able to help mom and our fur daughters move away from our domestic ab*sers. everything is an endless spiral of dead ends and im sick of it. ive been self sabotaging for years but a small part of me still has hope, please. i dont want to believe that this is where it ends for us. in this world of darkness and cruelty that spits on our faces, only my mom and our fur daughters have shown me the smallest glimpse of happiness. and even then ive failed them by becoming a barely functioning patient of depression. so, please, dont take my sunshines away.

[apupp3tw0-strings]

Everything is coming to a head.

Where the sky is set to tear, and the ground is primed to scorch

Four fools shall slice the wound from which a cancerous blight shall emerge

The first is the Beacon, his anger guiding the path

His name once brought awe to all, now he leads us into a sea of wrath

The second is the Eye, his vision soon to be plucked

His faith was not enough to prevent his self destruct

The third is the Voice, she who set the pieces in place

She’ll watch the world she loved so deeply be reduced to nothing but a waste

The fourth is Death himself, the broken father of three

He will be the only one quick enough to turn around and flee

The beast of the depths is mere steps from his profane feast

And with every voice he silences, another scream he will release

He will drown the world in flesh, recruit all its people to his legion

The dawn of blood is coming, a whole Dark World set to be eaten

. . .

PAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAPA!!!!!!!!

*Please Stand By*

Papyrus: NYEH HEH HEH! WELL WHAT DO WE HAVE HERE? THIS IS QUITE THE CONFUSING MESSAGE, DEAR FRIEND. EVEN CONFUSING STILL WHY YOU'D SEND THIS TO CHICAGO. i- WAIT A SECOND WHY DO YOU HAVE A TUMBLR? Chicago: I was- I was using it as a diary and to record my occurrences and experiences s-since meeting Spamton? D-Dadaton let's me have a Metagram. Papyrus: ... OKAY FAIR. HOWEVER I BELIEVE THIS IS AN OPPURTUNE TIME FOR ANOTHER INTERNET SAFETY LESSON! Spamton: H-HEY HEY HEY! R U [Guys ] & [Guys] D0ING A [[Internet Safety PSA]] W./0UT [Your Old Pal]!? Papyrus: JUST BECAUSE YOU'VE BEEN THE PRIMARY REASON I'VE HAD TO TEACH MY CHILDREN ABOUT INTERNET SAFETY AND SCAM PREVENTION, THAT DOESN'T MEAN YOU'RE THE SOLE CAUSE. Spamton: STILL APROX. [99.9999999999999999] PRECENT 0F TEH {[Well look at the time!]] Papyrus: ANYWAYS! CHICAGO, ON A SOCIAL MEDIA SITE LIKE METAGRAM, YOU WOULDN'T RESPOND TO OMINOUS MESSAGES THERE, WOULD YOU? Chicago: W-well on Metagram I don't respond to really any messages. (It's all either scammers or people being weird...) Papyrus: PRECISELY! THEN WHY SHOULD YOU RESPOND TO WEIRD TUMBLR ASKS? Chicago: I... shouldn't? Papyrus: CORRECT! WHEN IT COMES TO TUMBLR AND IT'S ASK FUNCTION THOUGH, PEOPLE CAN ASK ANONYMOUSLY, MEANING YOU CAN'T SEE WHO THEY ARE. THIS FEATURE CAN BE HELPFUL FOR THOSE WITH ANXIETY WHO MAY NOT WANT TO REVEAL THEIR IDENTITIES, BUT IT CAN ALSO BE USED BY PEOPLE TO SEND HATE OR STRANGE MESSAGES LIKE THIS ONE! REMEMBER THAT ANON MODE IS A PRIVELEGE AND IT IS UP TO YOUR FOLLOWERS TO USE IT RESPONSIBLY! Chicago: O-okay. So that means I should turn anon mode off? Papyrus: I'LL LEAVE THAT UP TO YOU, HOWEVER I'D ADVISE IT IF YOU DON'T WANT MORE WEIRD MESSAGES LIKE THIS ONE. EVEN IF YOU DO GET ANOTHER MESSAGE LIKE THIS, AT LEAST WITH IT OFF, YOU'LL BE ABLE TO EASIER BLOCK THEM. Chicago: A-alright then. I think I understand that. Papyrus: SPLENDID! NOW, IF YOU WOULDN'T MIND, MIGHT I HOLD ONTO YOUR PHONE FOR A MINUTE? I SHALL RETURN IT AS SOON AS I AM DONE, BUT IT'S COME TO MY ATTENTION THAT PERHAPS I SHOULD TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR CHILDREN PRIVACY AND PROTECTION SETTINGS. Chicago: Okay. I'm gonna head to my room. Come on, Spam. Spamton: RIGHT BE H1ND U [Lil City]! Papyrus: ... (OKAY, NOW TO ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE OF THIS. LOOKS LIKE YET ANOTHER THING TO ADD TO THE PILE OF NOTES ON "THE MYSTERY"...)

[stellaphlebotomist]

Pass the Certified Phlebotomist Exam: Essential Tips and Resources for Success

Pass teh Certified Phlebotomist Exam: Essential Tips and Resources for Success

Are ⁢you looking​ to advance your healthcare career by becoming ⁤a certified phlebotomist? Passing the Certified Phlebotomist‍ Exam is⁣ a crucial step toward⁢ achieving this goal.In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with ⁤practical tips, valuable resources, and insights to help you ⁢succeed. Whether you’re a recent graduate or someone transitioning into the⁢ phlebotomy ‌field, these ‍strategies‌ will‍ enhance ​your chances of ‍acing⁤ the exam. Let’s⁣ dive in!

Understanding ​the⁤ Certified Phlebotomist Exam

The Certified ⁤Phlebotomist ‍Exam aims to assess⁢ your skills and knowledge in the art and science of​ phlebotomy. This certification is ​offered by various⁤ organizations, such as the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) and the American Society ‌of Phlebotomy⁣ Technicians (ASPT). Candidates‌ are‍ tested ⁢on topics including⁤ anatomy, terminology,​ procedures, safety protocols, and patient interaction.

Essential‌ Study Tips ​for Success

Create a Structured Study Plan

One of the best ways to prepare ‍for⁣ the Certified Phlebotomist⁤ Exam is to create a structured study plan.Allocate time each week to cover different topics.

Your Study Plan Should Include:

Weekly topics and subtopics⁤ to cover.

Time set aside for review and practice tests.

Breakdown of‍ daily ⁤study sessions with ‍specific goals.

Utilize High-Quality Study Materials

Invest in reputable study ​materials that include textbooks, online courses,​ and ‌practice exams. Resources such as:

Textbooks: Use recommended ​textbooks ‍that focus on phlebotomy theory‌ and practice.

Online⁣ Courses: Platforms ⁢like Coursera and Khan ⁤Academy offer relevant‍ courses.

Practice Tests: ⁣ Utilize⁤ online quizzes and sample ⁢exams.

Benefits of Being a Certified Phlebotomist

Becoming a⁢ certified​ phlebotomist brings ⁣numerous advantages:

Enhanced Career Opportunities: Certification opens doors to⁤ various job options in⁢ hospitals, clinics, and laboratories.

Increased Earning Potential: ⁢Certified⁢ professionals typically earn higher salaries compared‍ to their⁣ non-certified ⁣counterparts.

Professional Recognition: ⁢Certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession.

Proven Study Techniques

Active Learning Techniques

To improve retention, engage in ⁢active learning techniques. ​These include:

Summarizing notes in your own words.

Teaching concepts to a peer or study group.

Using flashcards⁢ for​ vocabulary and key concepts.

Practice ⁢Tests‌ and Mock Exams

Taking practice tests ‍is⁣ one of the most effective ways to​ prepare.‍ They help ⁣you get a feel for‌ the exam format ‌and ⁤identify areas where you need enhancement. Consider the following tips:

Time ⁤yourself​ to improve speed‍ and manage exam ⁤anxiety.

Review your incorrect answers to understand your mistakes.

Retake exams to track your progress.

Resources for ⁣Exam Readiness

Here is a list of recommended resources to ‌help you prepare for‍ the ⁤Certified Phlebotomist exam:

Resource type

Recommended⁣ Titles

Where to Access

Textbooks

“phlebotomy ⁤Essentials” by Ruth McCall

Amazon, online ‌Bookstores

online course

Certification Course on ​Phlebotomy

Coursera, MedCerts

Practice Exams

Phlebotomy Practice Test Online

Quizlet, PhlebotomyExam.com

First-hand Experience: Insight from Professionals

Case Study: Maria’s Journey

Maria, a recent graduate, shared her experience preparing for the Certified ​Phlebotomist​ Exam:

Background: Maria studied biology and was drawn⁣ to phlebotomy due to her interest in patient care and clinical‍ procedures.

Preparation Tips: She noted that‍ using practice exams helped her to fine-tune⁢ her knowledge. “I created a study group with fellow ⁤students, which made learning a⁢ lot more engaging and fun,” Maria explained.

Final Thoughts: After‌ her rigorous preparation,Maria felt confident walking in ⁢for her⁣ exam ⁤and passed with‌ flying ⁤colors!‌ “Stay organized and believe in yourself,” she ​emphasized.

exam Day: What to‌ Expect

On the day of the exam, it’s crucial to arrive prepared. Here’s⁣ a checklist of what to do:

Get a good night’s sleep before the exam.

Eat ​a healthy breakfast to fuel your brain.

Bring ​required documents⁤ (ID,‍ certification forms) with you.

Arrive early to⁣ reduce anxiety and settle in.

Conclusion

Passing the Certified Phlebotomist Exam is not just a matter of luck, but rather a reflection of thorough preparation, ⁤practice, and confidence. By utilizing structured study plans, leveraging​ quality resources, and engaging with active learning techniques, you‌ can set yourself up⁢ for ​success. ⁣Remember, every professional ‌was ​once⁣ a beginner; stay committed, and ⁤you can achieve your certification goals. Good luck on your journey to becoming a certified‍ phlebotomist!

https://phlebotomytechnicianprogram.org/pass-the-certified-phlebotomist-exam-essential-tips-and-resources-for-success/

[sensitive-virgo]

Vital Training Guide for Aspiring Dental Assistants: Skills, Certifications, and Career Tips

Essential Training ⁣Guide for Aspiring⁤ Dental Assistants: Skills, Certifications, adn Career Tips

Are you considering a career as a dental assistant? This ‌essential training guide is‌ here to walk you through teh skills you need to develop, certifications to pursue,‍ and valuable career‍ tips for your‍ journey. With the⁢ demand for dental assistants​ on the rise, now is the perfect time to dive into this rewarding profession.

Why ‍Become ⁤a Dental Assistant?

A career ⁣in dental assisting offers numerous benefits:

Job Stability: The Bureau of Labor Statistics ⁣projects​ job growth of 11% from 2021 to ⁢2031 ⁣for dental assistants.

Rewarding Habitat: You’ll play a crucial role in helping patients ⁣maintain ⁣their dental health.

Flexible Hours: Many dental practices offer part-time or flexible ​hours.

Room for Advancement: Many dental assistants ⁤advance⁤ to positions such as office manager or⁣ hygienist.

Key Skills for Dental Assistants

To excel ⁢as a dental assistant, you need a unique mix of technical and interpersonal skills:

1. Clinical Skills

Knowledge of dental procedures and terminology

Ability to assist dentists during examinations and procedures

Understanding of ‍sterilization and infection control protocols

2. interaction Skills

Ability to explain ⁢treatments to patients clearly

Engaging with patients​ to ease their anxieties

Fostering teamwork⁤ with‍ dentists and ⁤hygienists

3. Organizational Skills

Managing patient records and appointment schedules

Keeping the workspace clean and organized

Inventory management ‌for dental supplies

4. Technical Proficiency

Familiarity ⁣with dental software and technology

Ability ⁤to take x-rays and process dental images

Proficiency in using dental tools and equipment

Certifications for Dental Assistants

Obtaining certification​ can significantly enhance your job prospects and professional ‌credibility. Here are some certifications to consider:

Certification

Association

Details

Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)

Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)

Recognized nationwide; requires passing an exam.

Expanded Functions ⁢Dental Assistant (EFDA)

Various State Boards

State-specific; ⁤allows for additional duties.

Radiology Certification

State Licensing Boards

Required in most states to perform x-rays.

Practical Training and Education

most dental assistants complete a training ​program ‍that may take about 9 to‍ 11 months through a community collage, technical ‍school, or vocational institution. ⁣here’s what to expect:

Classroom Learning: Topics include oral anatomy,⁣ dental materials, radiography, and more.

Hands-On Experience: Students ​gain practical experience in ‌clinical settings, where they ‌practise their skills with real patients.

Career Tips for Aspiring Dental Assistants

To ​set yourself apart ⁣in this competitive field, consider these⁢ career tips:

Network: Attend dental conferences, join relevant groups on social media, and connect with experienced professionals.

Stay ⁢Updated: Keep informed about the latest dental technologies and procedures.

Continuous Education: Pursue additional certifications and workshops to enhance your skills.

Develop Soft skills: Focus on ⁣building rapport with​ patients, as this can significantly enhance patient satisfaction.

Real-life Experience:⁣ Success Stories

Hearing from those who have⁢ walked the path can be very inspiring. Here’s a brief case study:

Maria’s Journey to Becoming a Dental Assistant

Maria always had a passion for helping others and a keen interest in healthcare. After completing a dental assistant ​program at her local community college, she⁢ secured an internship in a⁢ busy dental practice. Through hard work and dedication, Maria excelled in her role, eventually being hired full-time. With her CDA certification, she now plays a vital part in her⁣ team, contributing to patient care and office efficiency.

Conclusion

Embarking on a career ‌as a dental assistant is ‌not just​ about securing a job; it’s about committing to lifelong learning and patient care. With the right ‌combination of⁢ skills, certifications, and tips,⁢ you can ​build a fulfilling career in this growing field. Start​ taking your steps today to become an indispensable member of the dental health community!

https://dentalassistantclasses.net/vital-training-guide-for-aspiring-dental-assistants-skills-certifications-and-career-tips/

[oliviaphleb]

Open Your Career Potential with a Phlebotomy Diploma: Your Path to Being a Healthcare Hero

Unlock Your career Potential with‍ a phlebotomy Diploma:‍ Your Path to‍ Being a ⁢Healthcare Hero

In a​ world where healthcare is paramount, teh role of phlebotomists has⁢ become increasingly‌ vital.‍ If you’re considering a career in healthcare, earning a phlebotomy diploma can be⁢ your gateway ⁣to a rewarding profession that not ‍only offers ‍job stability but also a chance to make a difference in people’s lives. This article will guide⁤ you through the benefits, practical tips, ​and opportunities associated with becoming a certified phlebotomist.

What ⁤is Phlebotomy?

Phlebotomy is the practise of drawing blood from patients for ‍clinical or medical testing, blood donations, or transfusions. Phlebotomists are ‌trained professionals who are essential to⁢ the healthcare system, often serving as the first point of contact for patients in a ⁢clinical setting.

Why Pursue a​ Phlebotomy Diploma?

There are ⁤several compelling reasons⁢ to pursue a phlebotomy diploma:

High Demand: ⁢The need for skilled phlebotomists is growing, with many healthcare facilities needing trained professionals.

Short ⁣Training Time: Unlike many healthcare programs, a phlebotomy⁣ diploma ​can ‍often be completed​ in a matter⁣ of ‌months.

Entry ​into healthcare: A phlebotomy diploma ⁤serves as an excellent entry point into the ‌healthcare field and can lead‍ to⁤ further specialization.

Impactful Work: By‍ working in phlebotomy, you play a crucial role⁣ in patient care and ​diagnostics.

Benefits of‌ Being a Phlebotomist

Job Security and Growth

The healthcare industry is one of⁤ the fastest-growing sectors ​globally. ⁢According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ⁣the⁤ demand for phlebotomists is expected ⁤to​ grow by 22% from 2020 to 2030,​ much faster than the average for all occupations.

Flexible Work Options

Phlebotomists can find work in various settings,including:

Hospitals

Clinics

Laboratories

Blood donation centers

this variety‍ allows for flexible schedules,and many ‍positions⁤ offer part-time and full-time options.

Competitive Salary

The salary for phlebotomists can vary depending on⁢ experience and location, but on average, they earn between $30,000 and $50,000⁢ annually. Many positions also offer benefits such⁢ as health‌ insurance ⁢and retirement plans.

How to ‌Earn a Phlebotomy Diploma

To become a certified ⁣phlebotomist, follow these steps:

Research ⁤accredited phlebotomy programs.

Complete the required ⁢coursework and⁤ practical training.

Pass a certification exam from a recognized body (e.g.,National ⁢Phlebotomy Association).

Gain hands-on experience through⁢ internships​ or⁣ externships.

Practical Tips for‍ Aspiring Phlebotomists

Stay Sharp with Skills: Regular practice⁢ can‌ help improve ‍your⁤ technique and confidence.

Build Patient Rapport: ‌ Good dialog​ skills are essential‌ in easing patient anxiety—practice‌ these during your⁤ training.

Learn About Blood Draw‍ Techniques: Familiarize ‍yourself with⁤ different techniques and tools used in phlebotomy.

Case Study: A Day in​ the Life of a Phlebotomist

Time

Activity

8:00 AM

Arrive at the clinic and​ prepare equipment for blood draws.

9:00 AM

Meet ‌with patients and perform blood draws.

12:00 PM

Lunch break

1:00 PM

continue blood draws and ⁣document patient information.

4:00 PM

Prepare samples for testing; assist lab ‍technicians as ‌needed.

5:00 ‌PM

Wrap up the ‍day, clean​ and⁤ organize the work area.

First-hand Experience: A Phlebotomist’s ⁤Perspective

“Working⁣ as a phlebotomist has taught me ⁤invaluable ‌skills beyond just‌ drawing blood,” says Sarah, a certified phlebotomist with over three years of experience. “Every day presents new challenges and learning opportunities. Connecting‍ with patients and helping them feel ⁣pleasant makes⁤ it all worth ​it. Plus, knowing⁢ that my work contributes to patient diagnoses and⁢ treatments gives me a sense of ​purpose.”

Conclusion: Your Path to Becoming a Healthcare Hero

If you’re ready to⁣ take control of ‌your future and pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare, a ⁣ phlebotomy‍ diploma is an​ excellent choice. ⁣With short training periods, high demand,‌ and numerous growth ‍opportunities, you can make a meaningful impact in‌ the lives of patients. Start your journey today, and unlock ‍your career potential as a phlebotomy hero!

https://phlebotomytechnicianschools.org/open-your-career-potential-with-a-phlebotomy-diploma-your-path-to-being-a-healthcare-hero/

[laraphleb]

Master the NCCT Phlebotomy Exam: Take Our Free Practice Test Today!

Master teh ⁢NCCT Phlebotomy⁤ Exam: Take Our Free⁢ Practice Test ‌Today!

Are you ‌planning‍ to take ⁤the NCCT Phlebotomy Exam? ⁤Preparing for ‌this ⁢important certification ⁤can be a daunting task, but don’t worry! We’ve got ‍you covered⁣ with⁣ essential information, helpful resources, and⁤ a free ⁢practice ⁤test that will set you ⁢on the path to success.

Understanding the NCCT Phlebotomy ‍Exam

The National Center for competency Testing‌ (NCCT) offers the Phlebotomy Technician certification ‌to validate your skills and knowledge in‌ the field of phlebotomy. This⁣ exam assesses your ability to perform venipunctures⁣ and capillary​ draws, ensuring you are equipped ⁢to work in healthcare settings.

Exam Structure

The ‌NCCT Phlebotomy Exam consists⁣ of​ multiple-choice questions that cover various topics,‍ including:

Phlebotomy procedures

Blood ⁢specimen collection

Safety and​ infection control

Patient care and ⁢interaction

The exam format typically includes:

Section

Number of Questions

Time Allotted

Phlebotomy Procedures

60

90 Minutes

Safety Protocols

20

30 Minutes

Patient Interaction

20

30 Minutes

Why You Should Take the Free Practice test

One of ⁣the best ways to ⁤prepare for the ​NCCT Phlebotomy Exam is through practice ‌testing. Our free ⁢practice test offers several ⁤benefits:

Familiarization: Get ⁤used ‌to the exam format ⁤and ⁢question style.

Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: ​ discover areas where you excel and where you need improvement.

boost Confidence: Simulating exam conditions can reduce anxiety and increase your‍ confidence.

Tips for Exam​ Success

To help ⁤you succeed in the NCCT Phlebotomy Exam,‌ consider these ⁤practical tips:

1. Study Strategically

Utilize various ‌study ​resources, including textbooks, online⁤ courses, and study groups.‍ Make ⁣sure to cover all exam topics thoroughly.

2. Create a Study Schedule

Dedicate specific times ⁤each week to⁢ study.Consistency will⁢ help reinforce what you learn.

3. Take Practice Tests ​Regularly

In addition‍ to our free ⁤practice ‍test,look for other resources. ‍Regular testing will track your⁤ progress and prepare you for⁤ exam day.

4.Join a Study Group

Collaborating with peers can ⁤provide support, motivation, and opportunities to discuss complex ​topics.

5. Use‌ Flashcards

Flashcards‍ are a great way to memorize key terms, procedures, and definitions commonly found in phlebotomy.

Real-Life​ Experiences: Success Stories

Many who‍ have taken the NCCT Phlebotomy Exam share their success stories and how⁢ thorough preparation helped them‌ achieve their goals. Here’s an inspiring case study:

Case Study: Mary’s Journey

mary, a‌ recent phlebotomy graduate,⁣ struggled with some concepts during her ⁢studies. After taking our free practice test, ‌she identified weak areas in her knowledge⁢ of safety​ protocols.⁣ She dedicated extra⁣ time to study those topics, participated in a local study group,⁣ and ultimately scored above the passing mark on⁣ her exam!

Frequently Asked ‌Questions (FAQs)

1. ‌What‍ is ⁤the⁣ passing score for​ the NCCT Phlebotomy Exam?

The passing ​score typically ranges from 350 to 400, depending on​ the version of the exam.

2.How soon ‍can I retake the exam if ⁣I do not pass?

You⁤ can retake ⁤the NCCT Phlebotomy exam after 45 days from your last attempt.

3. How ofen is the exam updated?

The exam‍ is reviewed ​regularly to​ ensure it reflects ​current practices and developments in phlebotomy.

Conclusion: Ready, Set, Succeed!

Preparing for the NCCT Phlebotomy exam doesn’t have to be stressful. By utilizing our free​ practice test along with strategic studying, you can master⁣ the material⁢ and go into the ⁤exam with confidence. Remember, every expert was once‌ a beginner, and with the right preparation, you⁤ can join the ranks of certified phlebotomy professionals. Get started today, and take ⁣the first step on⁤ your path to certification!

Take our free practice test now​ and​ see how you measure up!

https://phlebotomycareertraining.net/master-the-ncct-phlebotomy-exam-take-our-free-practice-test-today/

[millaphleb]

Master the Art of Phlebotomy: Essential Blood Drawing Classes for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

Master teh Art of Phlebotomy: Essential Blood Drawing Classes ⁢for Aspiring Healthcare Professionals

In the ever-growing field of healthcare, the ability to draw ⁤blood is a crucial skill that can significantly enhance your career prospects. This article delves into the essentials of phlebotomy, outlining the benefits of proper training and offering⁣ guidance on the best blood drawing classes for aspiring healthcare professionals.

Understanding Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy ​refers to the practice of drawing blood from patients for a variety⁤ of clinical purposes, ranging from diagnostics to ​research. ⁤As ⁣a vital aspect ⁣of patient care,phlebotomy requires not only technical skills but also a compassionate‌ approach towards patients. Here’s why mastering the art of phlebotomy is essential:

What‍ Does a Phlebotomy Technician Do?

Collect blood samples for lab testing

Prepare blood specimens for transfusion or donation

Calm patients and address their concerns

Maintain equipment and ensure compliance wiht safety protocols

The Importance of ⁤Phlebotomy Training

Phlebotomy training is not⁤ just⁤ about learning to handle needles. It encompasses a range of skills ​that are crucial for ensuring the safety and ‌comfort of patients. ⁣Here are ‍some ​key reasons to enroll in blood drawing classes:

Accreditation and Credentials

Many healthcare facilities prefer hiring certified phlebotomists. Completing ⁣a recognized training program increases your employability and can led to better job positions.

Hands-On Experience

Blood drawing classes often‌ include practical sessions, where you’ll⁣ gain‌ hands-on ​experience. This practical training is essential for developing the⁤ precision and confidence needed to draw blood effectively.

Understanding Safety Protocols

Safety is paramount in any medical field. Phlebotomy classes emphasize the⁤ importance of infection control, proper disposal methods, ‌and patient safety measures.

Key Components of Phlebotomy Training

When considering blood drawing ⁢classes, look for programs that include the following components:

1. Theory⁤ and ‌Anatomy

Understanding human anatomy, particularly the circulatory​ system, is essential for prosperous blood collection.

2. Venipuncture Techniques

You will learn various techniques for venipuncture, the ‌most common method for blood ‍collection.

3. Patient⁣ Interaction

Developing effective interaction skills ​to engage with patients and reduce their anxiety is crucial.

4. ​Laboratory Standards

Training will also cover laboratory procedures ⁤and standards to ensure that specimens are handled correctly.

Benefits of Taking Phlebotomy Classes

Joining a phlebotomy‌ training program⁤ offers numerous benefits which can amplify your career trajectory:

Enhanced Skills: ​Develop technical​ skills ⁤that are vital for patient ⁤care.

Career Advancement: With a certification, you open doors to⁤ various positions in‌ healthcare.

Versatility: Phlebotomists can⁣ work in various⁤ environments, including hospitals, clinics, and ⁤laboratories.

Job Satisfaction: Contributing to patient care can be a fulfilling ⁣and rewarding experience.

Practical⁣ Tips for Aspiring Phlebotomists

Here are some practical tips to help you succeed in your phlebotomy journey:

1. Choose ​the Right Program

Research‍ accredited phlebotomy schools and compare their course offerings, duration,‍ and faculty experience.

2. Practice Regularly

Volunteer or seek ​out additional practice opportunities to refine your skills beyond ​classroom settings.

3.Stay Informed

Healthcare regulations and best‍ practices change over time. Staying updated through continued education is vital.

4. Build Interpersonal Skills

Strong interpersonal skills will ease communication with patients and enhance their⁣ overall experience.

Real-World Experience: Case ​Studies

Understanding the real-world application of phlebotomy can provide aspiring professionals with insight.Here are⁢ two brief case studies:

Case ⁢Study

Description

Emergency Room Phlebotomy

A phlebotomist works in the ER,quickly drawing blood from trauma patients to assist with urgent lab testing.

Pediatric Phlebotomy

A certified‍ phlebotomist utilizes calming techniques to draw blood from ‍a fearful child, ensuring a ‍successful and less stressful experience.

Conclusion

Mastering ⁢the art of phlebotomy is not just about learning to ⁣draw blood; it’s about embracing a vital​ role in the healthcare system. With the right training, you can develop essential skills, gain confidence, and enhance your career prospects as a respected healthcare professional. Explore local blood drawing classes today and take your first steps towards a rewarding career in ⁤phlebotomy!

https://phlebotomycertificationcourse.net/master-the-art-of-phlebotomy-essential-blood-drawing-classes-for-aspiring-healthcare-professionals/

[doublel27]

That’s so valid about Owen. “I’m gonna go annoy my kids now”

And there was something so squishy about the 3 of them being a lil family unit now 🥹

I'm sure whoever you are, dear sweet nonny, you threw this in here knowing I would likely meta on about it.

And I've been thinking about the end scenes nearly all day.

I'm notoriously interested in Owen as a character. He's a facinating character who, like his son, has had his life scarred by loss. Owen's whole raison d'etre is saving his brother. It's why saving that one little girl from drowning sent him into a life focused on saving others. Then he lost his entire firehouse in 9/11, and slowly lost other survivors of 9/11 to cancer and mental health disorders.

Then, he has to bring his son back from the dead and moves him to Texas in an attempt to save his life and restart, all while diagnosed with cancer. We lose Tim Rosewater which sets Owen into deep levels of depression and guilt, because he'll never be able to keep the promise that everyone who starts a shift goes home at the end of it.

Gwyn is in town, and they're still in love and he's working on making it work. They're gonna have a baby and Owen has a redo. He's got a chance to do it RIGHT this time. Because Owen's fatal flaw is always believing if things had been different, if he had been better, if he'd beena moment sooner: maybe he could have fixed things. He had a whole speech to that effect in last night's episode, where he figured if he'd known about 9/11 ahead of time that he could have prevented his whole team from dying.

Then the baby's not his and Gwyn leaves and whatever Owen managed to cobble together of his mental health for Gwyn and teh baby disipates and there's a lot of very classic PTSD/depressive/anxiety things that come up in Owen.

And then we lose Gwyn which is devestating to everyone but Owen soldiers on for TK, but he's...not doing well, at all. He finally gets his ass to therapy and even though we see him make some progress he's still keeping TK at a distance. Mostly because TK's doing well and Owen CANT be Captain Save a Ho for TK in these moments. He does crop up (usually) when TK's struggling, but only when there's something TO DO.

This episode marked a change.

Owen, in talking with O'Brien, who is giving a speech pretty reminicent of Owen's own speeches, about how he made a promise and he didn't keep it because look at this awful thing that happened, and Owen manages to give solid reasoning to be like "Look, he's alive and his son's alive and that's something."

And then it's like the lightbulb goes off in Owen's brain as O'Brien takes off after his great nephew - that Owen is indeed alive, and his son is also alive, and that's something. He may not have saved everyone but he saved TK.

Then, Owen goes and picks up food (which is really one of Carlos and TK's main love langauges, is feeding people - TK does it with takeout because he shouldn't be in the kitchen) and brings it over. But he doesn't just pick up any take out, he picks up the chinese food that TK introduced Gwyn to that they used to eat as a family.

I take this to be significant in multiple ways:

One, the Gwyneth Morgan of it all. Owen picked something that was a family thing and brought it over. Which is a very significant thing to do.

Two, it's one of the few times that food is involved and Owen doesn't mention the healthy/unhealthy nature of the food. Look, I could probably write a whole disertation on why Owen Strand, who has survived 21 1/2 years post 9/11 is obsessed with his health, but nearly every interaction with food, Owen has a coment about it. He doesn't make a single comment about this round of chinese food. I lied, he doesn't mention it in 3.08 either. But that's in the wake of grief, and maybe here Owen's still living in it.

Three, ordering chinese is very clearly TK's comfort meal. Look, a lot of us who are neurospicy joke about TK being neurospicy. And when you are neurospicy, there are certain foods that are..."safe" or an instant "yes" all the time. And we default to them often. I know when I'm struggling when I'm like "It's a comfort food day." (I have a rotation) but it eliminates decision fatigue and the need to emotionally regulate if it's not exactly what you wanted. Chinese food has a connection to Gwyn, and comfort and it comes up a lot when TK's stressed. (Even in 3.03, when Carlos doesn't come home, TK ordered chinese for them)

And then Owen does something he hasn't done...at all...since TK moved out (maybe they did when they moved into Owen's house and I don't know where they had chinese in 3.08) but Owen shows up at their place to share a meal with them.

And it's significant because TK and Carlos have invited him over for many meals between seasons 2 and 3, and Owen never accepts. Or, in the case of 2.11, Owen accepts and then goes off to catch an arsonist instead, which could be his hero complex but could also be a general avoidance of things that are uncomfortable for Owen, like TK growing up and not needing Owen anymore.

For as much as Owen has been an absent father for various parts of TK's life, because of his PTSD and trauma and general *waves hands* Owenness, Owen is a loving dad who would do just about anything for his son. We know this, we've watched him do it. But Carlos is also a competent control freak who Owen trusts implicitly with TK's life on numerous occasions. I do believe there's a big part of Owen's psyche that doesn't know what to do if he's not NEEDED.

But at the end of 4.06, he shows up, with chinese food, which is not needed because TK and Carlos already made a beautiful dinner and are looking very handsome, but he comes in and tells TK that he's proud of him, again. And you know, not trying to blow people up is a very low bar, but you know, TK clears it. And then they stay and have dinner, and Owen inserts himself in his son's life, not because TK needs him, but because Owen WANTS to be there, and that's such a drastic change for these two.

I love that Carlos and TK bring him in. Look, we could punish Owen for his mistakes and transgressions, but that's never been who TK is and this is his last living biological parent (Enzo forever) and TK loves him. And Carlos loves TK and respects Owen and wants them to have a good relationship.

And I cannot wait for Owen to "do what he does best" (owen's words) and be a pain in their asses about this wedding.

[itoldsunset]

ipytm episode 3 thoughts (very very long), take it or leave it. i have a lot of asks in my inbox and honestly i'm overwhelmed (there are a lot of feelings about this episode that i'm not prepared to hold because i am processing my own) so i don't think i'll get to them, but here are my reactions after thinking about it for a bit.

i kind of wonder what my reaction to episode 3 would have been had i stayed off of social media all day yesterday. my mindset going into ipytm was, "i don't want a cheating plot, but if there is one, i trust nadao to handle it well" because they're responsible for some of the best writing i've ever seen in thai television. i still believe that. i wish they hadn't chosen the cheating plot because there are other relationship conflicts to explore that don't involve cheating, but for me it's not a dealbreaker.

i disagree with critiques saying they did it for ratings or sensationalism. if anything, they lost viewers from this. people are not okay with cheating plots, and the team most likely knew this when they wrote it. yet they took that gamble anyway, which makes me want to believe they have something they want to say, and i'm waiting until the series ends to give my final judgment on whether they succeeded in that message.

i watched the episode live and saw thai fans' live reactions on twitter, then i spent the morning checking everyone's reactions here on tumblr. as of right now, thai twitter has not stopped insulting the director, the writers, and the company. the backlash is harsher than anything i've seen from international fans (i'm leaving it at that so please don't ask me). pretty much everyone hated what happened this episode, which i understand. but i don't think it means that it was lazy writing or that teh was out of character. i definitely think there's a problem, though, if the majority of viewers are feeling alienated from the show, because it means something went wrong along the way with the storytelling.

it is totally possible and in character for teh to cheat on oh-aew, because you can love someone with your whole heart and still hurt them and betray them (to be clear, it's still not okay). and it is totally possible for teh to have done something as shitty as this and still grow up to be a decent person in the end. this is where the time jumps become an issue for me. we left episode two with teh crying because he was afraid of losing oh-aew, and then we land in his third year where he's seemingly indifferent to oh-aew. but we weren't part of that journey, and the storytelling didn't lead us there emotionally. all we see is oh-aew being a super dedicated partner who is trying to salvage their relationship, while teh is completely distant and seems to have given up altogether.

i get it, he's insecure about his career and the possibility that he might end up like khim, and jai is the last thing he has to latch on to his now-more-elusive dream of becoming an actor. he's barely thinking about oh-aew and he's incapable of being a good partner right now, especially since oh-aew's success and happiness in advertising probably makes teh doubt himself even more. he's so in his head he's not even himself anymore. he has completely lost who he is, which is why he seems so foreign to us here. the objective facts are all there, but the emotional connection to make me empathize with him isn't, which is why all the shitty things he did this episode--juxtaposed against all the wonderful things oh-aew did--make him come across as such an exceptionally terrible person. and the thing is i know he still loves oh-aew. in the sex scene, he still clearly loves oh-aew. sure it was initiated by a desire to improve his acting for jai, but during the sex and the morning after, the love and affection for oh-aew are still there. teh just doesn't recognize it because all he sees is oh-aew having left him for better (a new career track he's happy with and doing well in, a group of friends who understand and support him) while teh remains stuck in the same loop holding on to jai as his last hope, which is why he's giving jai his everything. none of that makes any of it okay, but it makes it make sense.

i wish they had spent more time developing this internal conflict so that we could see it better, because it was only after rewatching it a couple of times, sitting on it, and reading people's reactions that i could begin to understand where teh is at in this episode. and i know we like that itsay gave us a lot to analyze, but i think ipytm has tried to jam too much into too few episodes that it ends up leaving the audience with blanks to fill in, which is a bit more work than i want to do when i'm enjoying a series. i think teh and jai got too much screen time, and teh and oh-aew not enough. i think there's a lot of insider stuff about drama/comm arts that's taking up space, which might resonate with folks who come from that field but not the majority of the audience who don't speak that language. i think if they had given more time to exploring teh and oh-aew's relationship, we wouldn't be seeing as much of this backlash.

a cheating plot doesn't make it cheap drama. i would happily watch a series that tackles infidelity in relationships because it is a super real topic with lots to explore: how does a couple navigate the aftermath of infidelity? can they rebuild trust, and how? what are the consequences to the relationship? all of these are important things to address, but the topic deserves a lot more space than a five-episode series can deliver, especially when it's combined with teh and oh-aew's other conflicts related to career, ambition, and other coming of age struggles. so for me it's not the cheating plot that's the problem but more so the fact that i don't think there's enough time for them to do it justice.

all that said, i think there's a tension here between a creator's creative vision and audience expectations, and i think this is an example of the showmakers maybe going too far in their vision to the point of alienating the audience. itsay is a comfort show and teh is a comfort character for a lot of us, and it's justifiable that folks are upset at the turn he's taken in ipytm. i'm also disappointed that it seems like teh remains the main character in ipytm while oh-aew's role has been reduced, because i can tell pp's acting has really improved and i would have loved to see more of him on the screen. the cheating storyline also makes it a lot harder to root for teh and oh-aew, and that honestly hurts the audience and affects our relationship to the show, and is another consequence of the writers choosing to go in that direction.

for me personally, itsay was full of angst but it gave me joy to watch because i loved watching teh and oh-aew fall in love with each other and i was rooting for them to overcome their obstacles to be together. ipytm has proven a lot more stressful to watch, where it doesn't spark that same joy but a lot more anxiety about "what's next," which was definitely a choice in setting the mood of the sequel. the material just doesn't work with the audience's emotions in the same way, it almost works against us. there's not the same sense of comfort and nostalgia and romance, but a darker realism of coming of age, and i wouldn't blame people for dropping off for that because it's a legitimate shift and doesn't match everyone's tastes in terms of the media they want to consume. i think we can hate the choices that were made here because they don't speak to our demands as an audience, but i wouldn't say they did it for the drama or for the ratings.

[save-the-data]

I PROMISED YOU THE MOON DOCUMENTARY (FIRST STEPS) | s02e02

As we prepare for Ep 2 tonight. Link in title. 

The recording of Safe Zone (find a man that looks at you like Billkin looks at PP). 

The throwback to the underwater kiss in season one, except now in front of public eyes. The rock-paper-scissors game to decide who buys the condom (XD). And of course the first scene where Oh-aew shows his anxiety and fear about the future, compared to Teh’s excitement and completely worry free demeanour. It really sets up the feelings of both characters, and future conflicts in their relationship. 

[sparklymilks]

therapy recap + some more indepth Feelings -

realised I never actually said about last week’s therapy on here

i went into some detail about some other stuff that hadn’t come up the week before: my long-term self harm, which i told her that i wasn’t particularly bothered by, but that seems like teh sort of thing you should probably bring up - and she didn’t argue with me. i explained my reasoning and she sort of nodded + seemed reasonably satisfied. this is encouraging to me: i can’t stand it when MH people are really scandalised about self-harm

she prodded at some of my plug thoughts - noted the inconsistencies, asked if I had had any traumatic experiences with fire (no), have i ever been badly burned (no), etc. then she asked how i am in a thunderstorm - am i afraid of the electricity then? i said no - in a thunderstorm i love it, and i asked her whether she remembered the thunderstorm a few years ago where the sky kept flooding w/ white light - it was amazing. me and ben went out to watch it in hte middle of a field. it did freak me out when we were there but not bc of the fire potential, but bc it was really, really intense - and that seems a fairly normal response to intense weather situations when you are outside with no cover. she said she did remember it. she said she watched it from her window. anyway: she noted that it was incongruent that my fear of plugs pertains to a fear of fire, but that there’s no real reason for me to have chosen fire as one of my things. which is true, i’m just not sure where to go w/ that. bc there’s a lot of things that my obsessions grab onto, and i don’t think any of them have real “reasons” for it. she suggested maybe a desire to control things that i feel are within my control (which feels a bit cliché lol) and also asked how i am w/ tolerating uncertainty. (”bad” is the answer) she asked me if i unplug things during the day (no), whether i unplug everything (no - i leave the fridge on + ana’s things that im not allowed to unplug) and asked me the perameters for the unplugging (just before i go to bed, at night, in the dark. if i go to bed at 7/8am, which is not hugely unusual for me, the need to unplug things completely disappears) i don’t know what any of this means. i don’t know if i care what it means. i just want to move forward.

Feelings:

feel a bit shit today - woke up feeling very anxious + had anxiety diarrhoea (posted earlier lol sry) then bc i was feeling anxious immediately went to weigh myself (lol hmm). i thought i’d be fine re: ana but im not really, i don’t like the temporary shift in dynamic, i don’t like being in charge of stuff, the medical vibe of the whole thing makes me very anxious, i fucking hate having to do the shit that triggers all my obsessive contamination thoughts, and i know it’ll be fine + this is gonna be the hardest bit of the entire process (bc obviously healing is fairly linear and after about 4-5 days the discomfort should be MUCH improved, and it’s already been 3) + that it’s fundamentally Not About Me lol and like it is what it is. it’s like 100% fine + im fucking delighted that ana got the surgery! im thrilled for them, and ALL of this discomfort is my own responsibility to deal w/ - ana is my best friend in the world + i am not gonna let my own insanities mean that they dont get to heal properly + appropriately.

so that’s that. i seriously juts need to get it together, and i know i will, it’s ok. like im seriously not doing very much extra at all, it’s just the entire situation that is setting me off, and as i said and entirely mean, it’s my own responsibility to deal w/ the feelings

i think im just constantly stressed atm (altho much better than i was a few months back, so i need to keep remembering that whilst i always struggle to put things in perspective, im objectively doing fine + good), im fed up w/ my mum’s awful cruelty, im fed up w/ my dad’s inability to see it, im fed up w/ the fact that my sister is 100% gonna come out of hospital in a few months + immediately start starving herself again. she asked if she could come here and i literally just want to say no, i want to cut myself off from my entire family at this point. but i know i cant - my sister’s done nothing wrong, and i cant/wont abandon her, but my god the whole situation makes me feel absolutely fucking feral w/ anger / terror / jealousy / frustration

[writingsbychlo]

let me down slow (03)

word count; 6723

summary; mitch comes over to see you, and while teh day may not go as planned, it leads to some pretty important revelations on your behalf.

notes; this is a little softer, but its a good transitional part.

warnings; none, really. just period cramps, and all that sucky stuff.

Since that night, your phone had never been silent for too long. Apparently, you and Mitch had a lot to talk about, and a lot to debate. You may have had your similarities, but you had your differences too. Like that fact that despite both him and Stiles being on lacrosse teams, you still thought football was more entertaining, but weren’t actually a huge fan of either. 

You had spent more nights up late in the dark, fingers moving over the keyboards as you talked to him, more than you had spoken to someone new in a long time, and yet it was only ever relaxed and calm. You never had that anxiety you got when staying up late into the night to talk to a boy on the phone, you were just talking to your friend, and getting to know him in a way that you never thought you would. You had each other’s numbers but had quickly swapped snapchat names too, and you almost regretted it when he began to send a lot of long video messages as he told you what was going on at every point of the day, before realising you actually liked knowing what he was up to, even if it was just three minutes of watching him walk through the supermarket to find milk and complaining about queues. 

Those videos had quickly become late nights calls, the two of you video chatting or sitting on a call for hours, until the night was late and you went back to texting, before falling asleep. On more nights than you could count in the last three weeks, you had woken up with your phone in your hand or on the pillow beside you, and had to plug it in to charge in the middle of the night before falling asleep again.

The sex had been ongoing too, the two of you taking every chance you had to sneak around, and every time had been completely and utterly earth-shattering.

Sometimes that included you showing up at the Stilinski household at times you knew Stiles was going out, claiming to forget and say you’d just head home, waving him off like the dutiful best friend on the doorstep before letting Mitch drag you into the house and have your clothes off before you reached the bedroom. Or, it involved that mysterious and fittingly sexy SUV he owned pulling up outside of your house just after your parents had left for work in the mornings, so that he could press you into the kitchen counter and fuck you over your dining room table, before the two of you crashed on the couch to take a break. 

Mitch knew exactly what he was doing, and the two of you had indulged in a fair amount of experimenting. You’d let him blindfold you with one of the smart ties from the back of his closet door that was saved for special occasions, and he’d shown up smirking and pressing a pair of handcuffs into your hands that he’d taken from his father’s office.

Your world had gotten a whole lot bigger since Mitch Stilinski had stepped into it, and it was a whole lot brighter too. It was like the sun had been brought closer just by his presence, he felt like summer; warm and bright and full of promises.

Which is exactly why you felt so awful when you swung your door open, looking at him standing on the other side optimistically, a bright smile on his face as he held up a bag of Chinese food in one hand, wiggling his eyebrows at you suggestively. 

“I brought dinner. I was feeling gentlemanly tonight, figured I’d feed you before fucking your brains out.” You let out a gentle laugh at his words, but didn’t step out of the doorway, your hands clenching around the wood a little.

“I can’t. Not tonight.”

His face fell a little, and you shifted yourself, your face screwing up a little at the pain that spread along your body, starting at your lower back, letting out a low sigh as the worst of it passed, and he raised his brows a little. “Is it because I didn’t call first? I just figured it would be alright because you said you were spending the day inside today, and I didn’t want you to be lonely, and I kinda’ figured that was a hint, which I guess it wasn’t, but s-”

“It’s not you, Mitch, I promise.” His jaw snapped shut, and he looked adorably confused for only a moment, before his eyes moved down your body, settling on your stomach before flicking back up, gaze fixing on yours in silent question, and you nodded your confirmation, rubbing at your lower stomach and letting out a pained whimper as a particularly rough round of cramps set in.

You figured he’d just leave, and so you fixed him with the best smile you could, despite the pain, but instead, he was taking a half step closer to you, the smell of food reaching your nose as the bag rustled, and he held it out a little closer to you, offering it out for the taking. “How about I let you have the extra spring rolls, and I’ll rub your stomach for you. We can watch some movies if you want.”

“I.. um, you know there will be no sex, right?” He let out a laugh at your words, shaking his head and rolling his eyes in a way that made you smile too.

“I know. Periods seem like they suck, and I was looking forward to seeing you anyway, so it doesn’t really matter what we do. We can even watch a romantic movie like ‘The Notebook’ or something, whatever you want.” 

“We can watch an action movie.” Taking the bag from him, you opened the door up a little wider to let him through, not missing his mumbled ‘thank god’, at not having to watch something sappy, simply stepping out of the way as he moved into the house, and taking the familiar path he had learned well towards your kitchen as you followed. 

“Want me to get plates and cutlery, and you can go sit back down?”

“That would be awesome.” You sighed, not even bothering to see his reply before you were making your way back to the stairs and up to your bedroom, the heating pad you’d left discarded on your bed was waiting for you, calling you back to it as you crawled back under your covers, grumbling to yourself as it made your body ache from the change in positions, before you were settling in the pillows and lifting the heated bundle back up to press to your abdomen, a happy sigh leaving you.

“Really bad, huh?” Mitch nudged the door shut behind him with his foot, carrying plates and cutlery in one hand, with two glasses in the other and a large bottle of chilled water under his arm. “I didn’t know if you had a drink but I figured you’d want one.”

“Do you know that you’re an angel? Like a blessing. A saint.”

He grinned, placing the plates before you and taking the bag from where it was left discarded beside you, kicking his shoes off as he came to sit next to you on the bed. Opening up all of the containers and balancing them in the bedding carefully so they didn’t tip over, he listed off each thing he got, your eyes fixed on him as he did, until he was screwing up the bag and looking up at you expectantly as he held an empty plate that would be yours once it was filled. 

“You got all the things I like.”

“Not entirely true, the noodles have peas in, because that’s how I like them.” He held the container up for you, showing you the little green veggies sitting inside, but you took it from him and a fork, dishing some up onto your own plate as you ignored his failed deferral of the claim you’d made that he’d actually put a considerable amount of thought into the meal.

He followed suit, the two of you dividing up the meal and discussing all of the elements until the wrappers and boxes were all tucked back into the bag and kicked from the bed, left to sit on the floor as the two of you settled down to eat, his body beside yours in the pillows, and the remote in his hand. He scrolled through the movie choices, offering you different ones he thought would be good, until you settled on something between an action and a comedy, wanting the light-hearted energy to surround you while you were feeling down.

Once you’d finished eating, he’d cleared all of the plates away for you both, taking them downstairs and discarding of the rubbish too, rewarming the pad that had begun to lose its heat. As promised, when he returned, he had positioned himself behind you instead, pressing your back to his front and replacing the head pad on your stomach, rubbing your stomach soothingly every time you got cramps.

Each time you let out a sound in pain he would press a kiss to your head, or your temple, and mumble sweet things in your ear to make you feel better, and each time you shifted and apologised he told you that it was okay, moving himself to make sure you were comfortable, no matter what position you moved yourself into. When the pain in your lower back became worse than that on your front, the pair of you shifted with his guidance until you were laying down, your cheek pressed to his chest as you lay atop him, his hands tucked under your shirt and fingertips pressing into the muscle to soothe you, chuckling each time you let out a sigh of satisfaction when he pressed to the right spots.

It was in those moments that you decided you could absolutely get used to this. You could get used to affection, and love, and being cared for when you weren’t well. It was in those moments that you decided you wanted to have someone you could lay with like this when you weren’t on your period, when you were just feeling a little emotional, or tired. You wanted to be able to shower someone else with love and appreciation too, you wanted to have someone who woke you up in the mornings with breakfasts in bed, and someone who kept you up late at night to watch stupid movies and share funny posts on Instagram, and or the first time in longer than you could remember, that image didn’t revolve around Stiles.

It was no longer his face that plagued your mind and his name that weighed down your heart. It hurt to know that he didn’t love you, but it didn’t hurt as much as it did. For the first time you could recall, you could swap his face out with someone else’s and believe it.

Squeezing the man underneath you a little tighter, his hands went flat on your back, simply rubbing soothingly instead of pressing into the muscles, and you nuzzled down into his chest a little more, the soft cotton against your skin making you feel comfy and warm, the steady movements of his hands lulling you into comfort and clearing your mind. 

“You sure you’re going to be okay to go in tomorrow?”

You let out a groan, his voice deep and rumbling underneath you, and it had slipped your mind that it was Sunday, and that you still had an assignment to do, your face pressing into his shoulder to muffle your growl of irritation before you were pushing yourself up above him, whining a little when you body flared up with pain again, but he simply watched you, setting his hands on your hips as you sat back on his thighs, rubbing at your eyes and glancing around the room.

“What’s up?”

“I have an essay due, tomorrow. Extra credit boost before graduation, just to bump up my GPA and all that.” You waved your hand a little, sighing out a groan before getting to your feet, padding across the room to find your laptop, and you heard the mattress creak as he propped himself up in the pillows. You considered not completing it, and just explaining to your teacher tomorrow that you didn’t need the extra credit, but the truth was, you did. You knew you wanted this, and once your period passed you’d hate yourself for not doing it just because you didn’t feel great at the time. 

Scooping up the device and taking it off of its charger, you made your way back to the nest of pillows and blankets you had created together. He was holding his arms out for you, the covers moved out of the way, so that you could get beneath them, and you could cry at the welcoming image he painted as you collapsed back into his touch. 

Snuggling back into him, his hands found your stomach again after he had tucked the blankets around you, and you positioned the laptop across your lap, turning it on at the power switch and waiting for it to load up. His chin was sitting on your shoulder, cheek pressed to yours as your head fell back onto his shoulder, and your legs tangled together under the covers. Shifting one hand to his, you squeezed at them in a silent thank you for him being there for you, and looking after you. 

You knew you’d be fine alone, but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable to actually have someone else with you, looking after you and making you feel better.

The device loaded up, the bright screen making you wince as you typed your password in, your home screen coming up and you immediately turned down the brightness, rubbing at your eyes now that it was darkened in a hope that it would soothe the pounding inside of your skull. “Can you even see that screen now?”

He meant it as a joke, and you knew he did, but it didn’t stop the sigh that slipped past your lips as you pulled up an empty document to start typing into. “I have a headache, and the brightness was not helping.”

“If you have a headache, are you sure you don’t want to just take a nap?”

“I wish I could, but I want to get all the boosts I can before I graduate.” He hummed into your ear, moving to press a kiss to your shoulder through your top, before his hands came up to close over yours on the keyboard as you typed in your name and the title of your essay, stilling as his hands stopped the movement. 

“Why don’t you let me type, then? You can shut your eyes so you don’t have to look at the screen, tell me what you want to put.”

“Are you serious?” You pulled away to look at him again, and he nodded, before you closed your eyes, feeling like you may break down at the offer, and tapping your forehead against his chin as you leaned in to bump against him in gratitude. “You’re amazing.”

“It’s literally just typing. I don’t even have to think of the words.” You pulled your hands away, curling on your side into his body instead as he moved the device to balance across both of your laps, wrapping his arms a little tighter around you and turning up the brightness so he could see the screen, getting himself ready and giving you a little hum in prompt to begin once he was set.

You listed off the words to him, speaking effortlessly as you moved through the introduction, and he typed what you wanted without complaint. It was when you began the actual study basis that he spoke, offering his own points and challenging your knowledge at times, asking you why you thought something as relevant to include, or what it was adding to the essay. 

The two of you worked in perfect harmony to create the piece of work, and you knew that with his added knowledge and the benefit of having another person contribute to it, that it would be one of the best pieces of work you had ever turned in. You had also never felt more relaxed while working, the sound of his voice as he spoke to you, reading back each paragraph for editing and ensuring it was correct, the rumble of it in his chest beneath your cheek. 

It took longer than you thought, but was more enjoyable than any other piece of homework you’d ever completed, and you made the decision then and there that you wouldn’t care if you were drowning in work for the rest of your life if Mitch, or anyone else, would hold you like this and make it feel more like a hobby than a chore.

Upon finishing it, he went to the effort of printing it off for you, leaving the bed after fluffing the pillows for you and handing you one to curl up with, before he was making his way over to collect the pages from your printer, digging through your desk drawers to find a plastic cover to slide them into, and tucking the essay into your bag, ready for tomorrow. 

You were watching him move carefully, your leg propped up on one of the pillows to ease your cramps, and he peeled his jumper up and over his head, throwing it away to sit over the seat at your vanity. The action had pulled up the light cotton tee he wore underneath, exposing the toned muscles and dark happy trail to you, the path of hairs that dipped down under the skinny jeans he wore. 

You were nibbling on your lip, trailing your eyes over him carefully, moving from his abs to his biceps when he pulled the material back down, and he was smirking by the time you eventually managed to drag your lingering gazes up to his eyes. 

“As much as I truly love the fact that you were just eye-fucking me - big ego-booster by the way, so thank you for that - we’re going to have to save that for another day.” 

You let out a huff, but knew he was right, and instead he came back over to you, picking up the pillow you’d tucked between your legs and laying himself down on the bed beside you instead, getting under the covers with you and letting you shuffle up beside his body. Swinging a leg up and over his waist, you rested your head on his shoulder, his arms wrapping around your body to hold you to himself protectively. 

“Do you want to sleep? We can take a nap, if that’s what you want.”

“It is, but we can talk for a while first.” You felt around for your head pad, resting it against your lower back, and his hand came down to hold it in place for you without even having to ask. 

“Okay, what do you want to talk about?”

It took you a minute to think, before your lips were flicking up at the corners, and your hand was tightening in the material of his t-shirt a little, before you rubbed your hand over the spot. Pressing your face into his neck, you pressed a kiss to his skin, and then another, just simple pecks to the space that you could reach, but he held you a little tighter instinctively each time. “Tell me about college. What it’s like, to live alone and be independent, I want to hear it all.”

“It’s pretty fucking awesome. I didn’t get to experience much alone, a lot of it revolves around Katrina. We tried real hard to make it work, at first, so a lot of my experiences are different, because of that.”

“You don’t have to talk about her, if you don’t want to.”

“No, it’s okay. I don’t mind.” He let out a sigh, running a hand over his face before returning it to your body, tucking it under the edge of your shirt to sit on the bare skin of your waist, rubbing circles with his fingers carefully. “She was a big part of who I was back then, I feel like I’m someone else now. I like who I am now. I dated her for more than half of my high school experience, and the first two years of college. She never forced me in a certain path, but I naturally wanted to follow her.”

“I didn’t date Stiles, I don’t think I ever will, but loving him changed me a lot too.”

“Love has a tendency to do that to you.” He paused, pressing a kiss to your hairline, before taking a deep breath. “College was scary at first. It’s so far away, it takes days to drive down, with all the pauses you take and the sleep time, so, I didn’t get to come home very often. It was odd, not listening to Stiles fall over things, or hearing my dad complain about work. I didn’t get to visit my mom on her birthday because I had exams, and that was the first time I didn’t take her flowers.”

“I miss your mom.”

“Yeah, me too.” He twisted you both a little when you began to squirm at the position, moving you so that you were on your side and he could press up to your back, your hand taking his as you dragged it over your body to sit across yourself. “Better?”

“Yeah, much.”

“So, I think on the first time I really felt like myself at college was actually the weekend I realised things with Kat were going downhill. It had been a whole month since we’d last seen each other, or even video chatted. Of course, we called and texted, but not as often and when I told her I loved her, it certainly didn’t make me feel as warm and fuzzy as it used to. I didn’t plan my weekends around seeing her and having virtual dates, but I started planning on keeping them open, and going to the college pep rallies, and going to the clubs and restaurants with my roommates. I had free time, and I liked that. It hurt when we officially called it off, and I realised I was going to need new friends, but if I’m being really honest here, a large part of the reason I came home again was to reconnect with myself, as well as move on, because I never knew myself and college as one.”

“You’re deeper than I thought.”

“What, did you think I was a kiddie pool of emotions?” He nudged his foot into the back of your leg, cackling a little when you grumbled at the jab. “I will have you know that I possess a deep ability to get hurt, and to do hurt, and that whole feelings shit. Blah, blah, blah, whatever you want to call it, I can do that.”

You laughed, muffling yourself by bringing his hand up to your mouth, kissing the back of his knuckles, and he flexed his hand, before gripping your chin and tipping your head back, pressing his lips to your cheek in a wet kiss in return. “I know you can. You cheered me up after Stiles left me on movie night, twice, and you’ve spent the whole of today caring for me. You’re deep as the Mariana Trench.”

“That’s some pretty high compliments, kitten.”

“You deserve them. So, tell me about having roommates.”

The conversation followed along much the same lines, and he let you shift every time you needed to, your position changing constantly as you tried to get and stay comfortable, but he told you everything you needed to know, without ever growing impatient. In return, you told him about everything he missed, you told him all the antics and stories that coach had endured since he left, and you told him about the funniest crimes his dad had been shutting down too. 

You talked for what felt like hours, before the conversations had fizzled into a serene quiet, which in turn had eventually become the sleep you had promised, the two of you drifting off into a comfortable quiet that made darkness overtake your senses. 

You had never slept as well on your period as you had with Mitch holding you. 

Your sleep was normally filled with tosses and turns, unable to settle for too long as different parts of your body ached and flared with pains, but this time you were happy, and you snoozed, and when you had woken up hours later, it was with darkness filling the room at the window instead of the sunrays you’d fallen asleep to, but you were still in the same position you'd drifted off in, and you realised you hadn't had a fitful night with constant wake-ups, but instead, you’d slept right through for hours.

The man underneath you was still asleep, snoring lightly was each breath, and you ran the tip of your finger over his nose, watching him twitch in his sleep and twist away from the source of your tickling. You’d never seen him asleep before, but you had seen Stiles, and even unconscious the two were opposites.

You were used to Stiles falling asleep around you, he kept himself up so late doing unnecessary research and keeping his mind busy until he crashed that he often fell asleep at other times too, slumped against the nearest surface, which often meant you. He drooled from the awkward ankles, and snored loudly, and twitched in his sleep before jerking awake. Mitch was calm, and clingy, and a deep sleeper. Even the slightest movement would wake his brother, and yet with all the subtle shifts you’d made, he was just adapting to you. Though, you assumed that might be down to his high activity lifestyle, all that sports must take a toll on him, even if he wasn’t keeping it up right now.

Pressing kisses along his jaw, he made a soft noise in his sleep that made your heart clench as you silently cooed over him, before he was shifting, letting out a little groan and pushing on your shoulder to roll you over, his body following until he could press you into the mattress and cover his face with your neck. 

“G’ back t’ sleep. Bit longer.”

“I would let you stay, but you dad will wonder where you are, and I have school in the morning, and I’m not sure how you’d like to explain to my parents what you’re doing here.” He huffed out at that, pushing himself to sit up, before shaking his head to clear the sleep away a little bit as he cracked his eyes open. “Hi there.”

“I haven’t taken a nap in fuckin’ ages.”

“It was a good nap.” You confirmed, standing up yourself and taking the blessed few moments of pain-free movement to stretch out a little bit. He leaned over, brushing his lips to your forehead, and you walked across to the window. “It’s later than I thought, both of my parents are already home from work.”

“I should get going.” You nodded, never looking away from the window as he remade the bed with the blankets you both had messed up, before coming over to find you. “You gonna’ be okay?”

“I’ll be fine, I just need to have a shower and get myself ready for tomorrow so I can sleep in. I have a period every month, I’m well used to dealing with it, even if it does suck.”

He rolled his eyes, taking your hand in his and pulling you away from looking outside, but not before you had closed the curtains and locked out the streetlamps bright rays. “Why don’t you walk me out instead of being sassy, huh?”

“I thought you liked me when I was sassy?”

“That’s when you’re fucking me. I like you most when you’re being cute.” You rolled your eyes, but took his hand in your own and headed towards the front door, as he sat on the bed to pull on his shoes that he had discarded by the door so long ago. 

“I’m going to go and unlock the door, and make sure my parents are in bed.”

“It’s been a while since I had to sneak out of a pretty girl’s house, I kinda’ missed the thrill.” He smirked, nodding to you as you went, and you were sure to hide the blush crawling at your cheeks. 

The darkness that had grown to replace the light in the room was thick and heavy, only making you more tired as you rubbed gently at your eyes, trying to wake yourself up a little from your nap so that you could have a shower and get yourself ready for a day at school, before eventually going back to bed again. The downstairs of your house was vacant, your parents clearly having come in and gone about their night without disturbing you, before going straight to bed themselves. 

You could hear Mitch padding down the stairs softly as not to wake your parents, and so you opened the door quietly, turning it in towards you and letting the cool night air sweep into the house. There was a note left for you by your parents, and you picked up the piece of card, flipping it over to read what it said, smiling at the handwriting scrawled onto it.

‘Figured you were getting an early night, didn’t want to wake you last night. Have a good day at school.’

There was a heart drawn at the bottom, and you assumed they didn't think you'd see it until you woke up and headed out in the morning, and you were grateful they hadn't come into the room, because you weren’t too sure how you would explain being curled up in bed and clinging to your best friends older brother as you slept side by side. Probably not the best way to introduce a guy to your parents.

Placing it back where it was, you could thank them for it tomorrow, and Mitch was standing beside the door patiently, watching you carefully as you finally turned back to him. 

“I’m sorry today didn’t go how you were planning, but thank you for sticking around anyway.”

He lifted a hand, brushing stray hair away behind your ear and settling the palm over your cheek, pulling you forwards gently until you were standing so close to him that you could pick out the lighter flecks of colour in his eyes, despite the darkness of the night surrounding you both. “My plan today was to come over and see you and have food. Sex is just what we usually do, but I wasn’t disappointed any less.”

You weren’t sure what to say, so you didn’t bother saying anything at all, instead choosing to reach out and lace your fingers with his other hand, to which he eagerly accepted, spreading the digits for you to slip your own between before he was squeezing your hand tightly. 

“I want to kiss you again. Is that okay?”

You lifted your face back up, your sights moving from your connected hands to instead find his own eyes, before you were leaning in a little closer, a smile pulling on your cheeks. “Another goodnight kiss?”

“Yes.”

“You can consider this blanket permission to kiss me whenever you want, sex or no sex.” You promised, and you barely caught sight of his smile before he was leaning in to press his lips to your own in a tender connection. It was slow, and sweet, your mouths creating a rhythm of their own as you fell in closer to him, wrapping your free hand around his neck as your fingers played together from where they were connected at the hand and pressed between you both, squeezing tightly as you clung to one another. 

“I have to warn you, I may abuse that privilege.”

His words were exhaled breathily into your mouth, and you only chuckled in response, nodding from where his forehead was pressed to your own, before indulging yourself in a few further quick pecks to his lips, which he was happy to reciprocate. “You planning to kiss me a lot, Mitch?”

“Maybe I am.” He leaned back in, smiling against your mouth as the whispered confession faded out into silence, and you let him, leaning over him as he stepped back over the threshold and down the step onto the garden, his head tipped up to face yours, the hand from your cheek slipping down to your hip in order to stabilise you. When you pulled back from him, his lips chased your own for a second, pouted and needy before he finally rocked back onto his feet, fishing into his pocket for his keys, but never taking his hand from yours.

“I’ll see you soon, I’m due college application letters back some point next week, and Stiles and I have always said we’d open them together.”

“I look forward to it, kitten.” He gave your hand a final squeeze, before finally releasing it and stepping away backwards in the direction of his car, the lights flashing as it lit up on the street. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

You nodded, watching as he turned away and climbed into his car, never leaving the doorway until he'd driven past, winking at you as he went, the lights fading as he moved further down the street until he had rounded the corner and was out of sight. Closing the door once again, you pressed your forehead to it, feeling embarrassed about the size of the grin on your face, before locking up and flicking out the lights, making your way back upstairs.

When you made it back into your bedroom, your eyes immediately closed in on the jumper that was left on your bed, the same one he’d shrugged off before the two of you had fallen asleep, but it was now folded neatly and placed on the straightened bed sheets, a purposeful offering that made warmth bloom in your chest and ebb out across every part of your body.

Grabbing your phone from where it was sitting, you snapped a picture of the garment, sending it to him and knowing he would reply when he got home.

you left me your jumper.

With that, you dropped the device, peeling off the clothes you’d spent the day in and dropping them into the laundry basket, before heading towards the bathroom. Switching on the shower, you lined up the towels on your counter before stepping under the warm water and letting out a happy sigh as the heat flooded over your body. 

Periods always made you feel icky. They made you feel dirty, and tired, and unattractive.

Today, though, you had felt nothing but peace and tranquillity, being in the arms of someone who cared about you. It was odd, the feeling of moving on. You could sense the shift in your own soul, the way you felt a little detached from yourself, floating aimlessly like you had nothing anchoring you down anymore. You no longer felt like you were bound by the ties you felt to Stiles, the same guilty jealousy that had once possessed you anytime you thought about Lydia - or anyone else - being the one who stole Stiles’ heart instead of you was no longer. The idea of being with someone other than Stiles was no longer met with disdain, but rather your attempt at optimism. You didn’t want to let it go, you didn’t want to move on, and your heart still held a place for him that you weren’t sure would ever go away. 

Stiles was the first boy you had ever loved, but now, it didn’t seem so impossible to say he wouldn’t be the only one you loved. There was space for more, there was room for trial and error and heartbreak because, finally, you were allowing yourself the opportunity for the childish infatuation to be released so that you could move on to something more.

Something mature and meaningful. Something that revolved around more than just the chance of affections but something that was built on dedication and understanding and deep-rooted love. 

Washing out the suds from your hair, you wiped at the soap on your face, washing off every thought and emotion that had passed over you in the day, and letting your worries and heartbreak slip away down the drain with the soap, feeling completely and utterly refreshed. When you stepped out, steam billowing into the room around you, your first call was to find some new and comfortable clothes to cuddle up into. Once you had done, you spent a little longer rubbing your moisturiser into your face, and drying your hair off before you could get into bed, your eyes closing as you listened to the hum of the machine, the simple but steady note letting you relax yourself as you matched your heartrate to the subtle and steady clicks each time the blades turned over.

Finally, feeling clean and comfy and satiated, you picked up the jumper that had been left for you and pulled it over your head, the longer sleeves swamping over your hands as you balled them up and lifted the neckline to your nose with the tips of your fingers that peeked out, taking a deep inhale of the scent that clung to it.

You felt wrapped up in it, the smell of his cologne that was on your pillow and your blanket, the dip on the bed from where he’d been sitting. No matter what happened when he came over for more physical activities, you were never left with the smell of him clinging to your sheets. After that, your room would smell of sweat and sex, but the smell of his aftershave and his shampoo pressed into the fabric came from a day of cuddling and sleeping, a day of doing nothing but holding on another close, until he was leaving a ghost of himself behind even when he had left. 

Lifting up your phone, your latest notification was from the man who was swamping your thoughts, only a few minutes old, and you swiped it open, rolling onto your side and propping a hand under your head. 

[Mitch 🔥] saw my syracuse one was over the back of ur chair, u said it smelled good. thought I’d leave u another one.

Taking a quick picture of yourself, your face partially covered by the hand over a jumper you had up and over your nose, you sent it to him, typing out a thank you underneath, and expressing just how much you loved the gesture. 

[Mitch 🔥] u look fucking adorable. I like u in my jumpers.

Heat crawled up your cheeks, and you nibbled on your lower lip, flicking out the light and preparing yourself to settle back down to sleep. 

maybe next time you come over, i’ll be wearing only the jumper. 

Hitting send, it went through the ‘read’ immediately, and the grey bubble at the bottom of the screen was popping up only a second later but he took him a moment to reply, the bubble disappearing and reappearing a couple of times, before a text finally came through, and for a moment, you worried you’d crossed a line of some kind.

[Mitch 🔥] ur a tease, can’t believe i'm this worked up at midnight.

You rolled your eyes, thumbs moving quickly over the illuminated screen, before hitting send, and quieting your own giggle of amusement by burying your face in the pillow. 

i’ll make it up to you when i next see you.

The next text came only a second or so later, a yawn taking you over as you prepared yourself for sleep, and it didn’t require a response.

[Mitch 🔥] can’t fuckin wait.

[stellaphlebotomist]

Comprehending Phlebotomists: Key Roles, Skills, and Career Insights

Understanding Phlebotomists: Key Roles, Skills, and Career Insights

Teh field of phlebotomy plays a vital role in the healthcare system, ensuring that blood samples are collected safely and efficiently for diagnosis, research, and treatment. This article aims to ‌offer a comprehensive understanding of phlebotomists, their key roles,⁢ necessary skills, and valuable career insights, ensuring that both⁢ aspiring professionals and the general public recognize their⁤ significance.

what is a ⁣Phlebotomist?

A phlebotomist is a trained healthcare professional who specializes in drawing blood from patients. Blood collection procedures might potentially be conducted for a⁣ variety of reasons,including

Laboratory tests

Blood donations

Transfusions

Research purposes

Phlebotomists⁣ work in various settings,including hospitals,clinics,blood donation centers,and laboratories,where ​they play an essential role ⁢in patient care and diagnosis.

Key Roles of Phlebotomists

The primary responsibilities of a ‍phlebotomist encompass several critical tasks that‍ ensure efficiency⁢ and safety within⁤ healthcare facilities. These roles include:

1. Blood Collection

The moast basic responsibility of a phlebotomist is the ⁣proper collection of ⁣blood⁣ samples. they must be skilled in various techniques,⁤ such as:

Venipuncture

Capillary blood collection

Arterial collection

2. patient Interaction

Effective ⁢communication with patients is crucial.⁣ Phlebotomists need to:

explain procedures to patients clearly

Address patient concerns and anxiety

Ensure patient comfort throughout the⁤ procedure

3. Sample Management

Phlebotomists are responsible for labeling, managing, and transporting ‍blood‌ samples to laboratories while maintaining chain-of-custody protocols to prevent cross-contamination.

4. Adherence to Safety‍ Protocols

Phlebotomists must‍ follow strict safety standards,including:

Using personal protective equipment (PPE)

Understanding⁢ and following OSHA standards

Implementing infection control measures

5. Record Keeping and Documentation

Accurate documentation⁢ is vital in phlebotomy.Phlebotomists keep detailed⁤ records of:

Patient information

sample collection times and ⁤methods

Any complications that may arise

Essential‌ Skills for phlebotomists

To excel as a phlebotomist,individuals must cultivate a blend of technical and interpersonal skills. Hear ⁣are the top ​skills that successful phlebotomists typically‌ possess:

Technical Proficiency: Mastery of blood collection techniques ‍and knowledge of equipment.

Attention to Detail: ‍Precision in labeling ⁣and managing ⁤samples.

Strong communication: Ability to explain⁢ procedures and reassure patients.

Problem-Solving: ⁢Addressing unexpected​ complications during blood draws.

Compassion and Empathy: Understanding patient anxiety​ and providing reassurance.

Educational Requirements and ⁤Training

A career in phlebotomy typically ‌requires a high school diploma, followed by specialized ⁢training. Educational paths may include:

Phlebotomy certification programs (usually 3-6 months)

Associate degree in health sciences or a related field

On-the-job​ training

Certification through organizations like the National ‍Phlebotomy Association (NPA) or the American society of Phlebotomy Technicians ⁣(ASPT) can ⁣enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

Career Insights: Opportunities and job Outlook

The job outlook for phlebotomists remains strong, ​with many opportunities arising from increasing ⁢healthcare needs. ⁤according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow‌ by⁢ 23% through 2030,much faster than the average for all occupations. ​Here are some insights into potential career paths:

Career Path

overview

Hospital Phlebotomist

Works‍ in ⁣various departments,collecting samples for diverse tests.

Blood Bank Technician

Specializes in ⁢collecting and preparing blood ⁤donations ⁣for transfusions.

Clinical research Phlebotomist

Participates in clinical trials, collecting samples for research studies.

Mobile Phlebotomist

Travels⁣ to patients’ homes or workplaces to perform blood draws.

Benefits of a Career in Phlebotomy

Pursuing a‌ career ⁤in phlebotomy offers several benefits, including:

Short Training Period: Compared to many ‍healthcare careers, training is concise.

High Demand: With a growing job market, job security is typically high.

Patient Interaction: Directly impacting patient ‌care and⁣ comfort.

Flexible Hours: Opportunities for full-time or part-time⁢ work in various settings.

Practical Tips for Aspiring ⁢Phlebotomists

If you’re considering a⁣ career in phlebotomy, here are some‌ tips to maximize your chances of success:

Gain Experience: Volunteer or intern in healthcare ​settings to enhance your⁢ skills.

Stay ⁣Updated: Keep abreast of the latest phlebotomy techniques and ​protocols.

Network: Join professional organizations and attend conferences for networking ⁣opportunities.

Emphasize soft Skills: Focus on developing communication and interpersonal skills alongside technical training.

Conclusion

Phlebotomy is a critical component of modern healthcare, necessitating ⁢both technical skills and⁢ a compassionate approach to patient care. By understanding the roles, skills, education requirements, and career opportunities in ‍phlebotomy, individuals can make informed decisions about pursuing this rewarding path. As the healthcare field continues to ​evolve, phlebotomists will remain indispensable in fostering accurate diagnoses and effective patient management.

https://phlebotomytechnicianprogram.org/comprehending-phlebotomists-key-roles-skills-and-career-insights/

[caplanbuckybarnes]

The Call Out (2)

Summary:  You get hired as a live-in bbaysitter for the city’s most dangerous mafia boss.

Warnings: None?

PREVIOUS CHAPTER

Nervously, you smoothed down the front of your shirt as you sat in the back seat of the car that was sent to retrieve the morning after the meeting. You couldn’t believe your luck in the matter. You’d stayed up for hours the night previous, texting your best friend back and forth.

He sent plenty of words of encouragement. Though, knowing the mafia king was all over the news with his dirty deeds and wrecking havoc, the city did little to quell your anxiety. But still, the money was well worth it. All you had to do was babysit his twin sons. You learned along the ride that his boys were named Alexei and Nikolai. The man settled behind the wheel was named Thor. He donned his hair pulled back into a messy bun on the back of his head. You thought the man looked ridiculously attractive, but then again, you’d probably never see the man again.

He didn’t talk much. But then again, what could you talk about with the man? He bore a single eye that rivaled the afternoon sky. His other was covered by a black eye patch. You’d wanted to ask what had caused the loss of an eye. But you daren’t speak for fear of dying in that car.

Long minutes last by as he swerved through traffic. He was chaotic, yet, in control of the traffic surrounding him. He held mirth in his eyes, or maybe it was indifference. You didn’t dare stare at him for too long in the car. The sir surrounded him held importance and hostility. 

“Here.” He finally spoke, pulling into a driveway long enough to rival a New York City block, circling around a small water fountain that held brushes of grass and flowerbeds. He pressed a button on his console and. The garage door opened up to reveal a display of vintage cars of all models. You could tell the man that hired you had exquisite taste in whatever he drove. Or maybe the man simply had too much money for himself. Judging by the immaculate stones carved into the building itself.

Thor stood out of the car and quickly pulled our door open, holding out an arm to help you out onto solid ground. Thanking him quietly, he led you through the house in silence. You were in a different part of the house then before. Paintings lined the walls above vases of flowers every few meters. The walls themselves held little to the imagine, white paint was prestige and you swore you could smell the aroma of a fresh coat of paint as Thor guided you through three sets of hallways, and another set of doors before finally holding out a hand in invitation. You quickly stepped through a pair of oak doors and were welcomed by the scent of candles surrounding the room. The gesture wasn’t a romantic one. But the eerie glow of shadows  that lined the wall above teh candlelight sent a shiver down your spine.

“Welcome back, Y/N,” the now familiar voice dominated the air around you and you quickly moved your head to the right where Pietro stood leaning against his desk with a clipboard in his hand. He wore a navy blue coattail with matching trousers, legs crossed at the ankles. He barely looked you way as he continued to search the document in his hand. “I assume you had a lovely drive.”

“Thor doesn’t speak too much, does he?” You greeted as you shuffled on the balls of your heels. “He was quiet most of the ride here.”

“He’s never been much of a speaker,” Pietro finally looked up at you with a warm smile as he placed the clipboard behind him. “My apologies, I’m being unfairly rude without meaning to.” He gestured to the high backed chairs that were settled in front of his desk. He sat in one and you sat in the other.

“My twins are excited to meet you,” his eyes glossed over with admiration. “I know my sister gave you a hard time after I had dismissed you yesterday. I would like to apologize on her behalf.”

“It’s not needed, sir.” You crossed your legs, one over the other and you couldn't help but to notice that Pietro’s eyes had followed the movement. “When will I be able to meet the kids officially?”

“Have you eaten breakfast yet?” He asked, ignoring the question as his eyes trailed along the stockings you wore on your legs. “I would like your company in the kitchen, if I may? I have a list of the kids’ allergies I’d like to go over with you.”

“Yes, sir.” You nodded as he stood from the chair and held out a hand before he strolled out of the room, hands deep within his pockets. You couldn’t help but to struggle behind him as he quickly strolled along the corridors, having the layout of the house memorized after years of living within the walls.

Minutes later, you enter the kitchen and whistle low at the dimensions of the room; this room alone could fit your entire apartment inside, and still have room left over. You took a seat at the island that he stood in front of and waited patiently as his attention was thrown into a scuffle in the hallway. Apologizing politely, he returned to the room and took a paper from its place on the fridge and set it in front of you.

“So tropical fruit is off limits?” You mumbled to yourself as you gazed at the list; it wasn’t a long one. On it was written the typical allergies for most children that you knew.

“Nikolai insists he’s not allergic, yet his swollen tongue claims otherwise.” It was the first time since you met the man that you noticed how his blue eyes brightened up at the mention of his kids. You wouldn’t get in trouble this time. The last boss was a fluke. You quickly averted your eyes back down to the paper in your hands and studied the list before folding it neatly and placing it in the purse you slung over your shoulder.

“I’ll be sure to remember everything,” you promised. He turned around and started opening cabinets, pulling out ingredients for what looked like potato pancakes. Soon enough, you became mesmerized by the easy way he floated around in his kitchen. He seemed to glide on air as he hustled about. Not too long after, the scent filled the kitchen space and you nearly moaned out loud.

“Papa!” The sounds of two pairs of feet echoed through the hallway before two small children skidded to a stop in the doorway. “Good morning, Papa!”

“Nikolai, Alexei, good morning,” Pietro smiled at his sons. You smiled in uncertainty as the boys eyed you suspiciously.

“You’re not auntie Wanda!” One of the Twins spoke, a giggle from the other twin as the first one tilted his head in question.

“No, I am not,” you smiled, sliding off the car and kneeling down to their eye level. “My name is Y/N. I’m your babysitter.”

“What happened to Carol, Papa?” The twin with glasses spoke as he turned on his heel to look at his father. “I liked her!”

A darkened expression grazed the pupils of Pietro’s eyes before the scowl was erased and replaced by a soft smile. “She forfeit her job three days ago.”

“But-!”

“Nikolai.” Pietro raised a brow and the twins became silent at once. “No more questions, it’s rude.” Nikolai nodded and turned his attention back to you, his eyes matching his fathers. You looked between both boys and noticed Alexei had a freckle just to the right of the corner of his mouth. It was the only visible difference you could see in the pair of boys.

“You’re pretty!” He said before walking around you and settling himself in the chair in front of the island. His brother followed suit seconds after. You watched as the brothers dug into the fruit bowl and pulled out different fruits, one an apple, the other a plum.

“Boys, did you wash your hands before you touched that bowl?” The authority in Pietro’s voice nearly had you buckling on the spot. What the hell is this man doing to me? Not again. This can’t happen again! Dean was a fluke, a mistake. This isn’t happening! Pietro nodded his head toward the doorway as the boys sunk in their seats. He turned to you. “Why don’t you start helping out by getting the boys dressed and washed properly before I leave out for the day?”

You nodded easily before following the boys giggles as they raced down the hallway. As you paced down the hallway, you couldn’t help but to stop and look at the artwork lining the walls around you. This man certainly had expensive taste. You only hoped that your life wasn’t about to flip a coin and land on the wrong side as it had done with Winchester back in Lawrence.

“I think she’s pretty!” You heard one of the boys say as you approached what you assumed was the bathroom. The sound of a sink running was the ultimate indicator taht you were going on the right direction until you spotted the boys in a tiny bathroom standing on stools to see their reflection. “Much prettier than Carol!”

You watched over them for a minute before Nikolai noticed you in the reflection. “Want to see my dinosaur collection?” He hopped off the stool and you had to laugh as toothpaste was running down his jawline. You walked over to the toilet before grabbing a few pieces of paper and rubbing his mouth.

“I would to see it,” you smiled before standing back up. “But first, breakfast now that both of you are properly washed up.” You looked over at Alexei and noticed he’d been quiet almost all morning. The concern wasn’t missed by Nikolai. “Don’t worry about him, he’s not much of a talker like me!”

You nodded and held a hand out to Alexei and waited for him to gently wrap his small hand in yours before all of you walked back into the kitchen.

“Dad, I really like her!” Nikolai jumped into the kitchen and raised his eyes to look at you with a wide grin. “I want to show her my dinosaurs!”

You assumed it didn’t take much to impress a four year old. Maybe you’d ask Pietro later about what you should expect with his kids. Maybe you’d stay up long enough tonight and talk to him fully about your past. You knew with Wanda being around, and her already on the bad side, it wouldn’t take long for Pietro to figure out exactly what happened with Dean Winchester.

The smile on Pietro’s face as he agreed with his son made your heart drop to the pit of your stomach. Eventually, his sister came strutting in, Bluetooth tucked into her ear as she hummed and responded to whomever was on the other line. She nodded to her brother in greeting before dipping low and kissing the twins on the tips of their noses before walking back out without so much as glancing your way.

Breakfast went by smoothly. The twins are without much complaint, thanks to Pietro’s fine cuisine. You helped the boys wash their owns plates and set them away in a cabinet before Nikolai ran off to his room. Alexei stayed back and shuffled nervously on his feet. Taking care to not force conversations to on this young child, you knelt down and tucked a finger under his chin before gently prodding him to match your eyes sight.

“What’s wrong, kiddo?”

“It’s quiet when daddy’s not here.” He frowned, still shuffling on his feet. “I don’t like when it’s quiet. It makes me feel sad.”

Looking at the kid for a long moment, an idea popped in your head and you quickly pulled your phone out from your pocket and searched for a source of radio. Eventually, you found a speaker sitting above the fridge and pulled it down before connecting it wirelessly to your phone. Music blared through the speaker and you grabbed Alexei’s hands before jumping up and down in the kitchen. A small smile broke out on his face and he started jumping up and down with you. Minutes later, his twin brother came into the room and started joining in with the fun.

Long minutes later, song after song played on your phone and the next thing you knew, the boys were dancing throughout then house and laughing up a storm. You were vaguely aware that you were in a very unfamiliar area of the house but you didn’t care as you followed the boys.

“What do you think you’re doing?” A scowling voice stopped all three of you in your tracks before you spun on York heel to be greeted with the flaming red hair of your boss’s sister.

“We’re just dancing, getting energy out of our systems,” you shrugged as Alexei ran over to you and hugged your leg tightly; the look of terror plagued on his face. “It’s not a crime to have fun, you know.”

With a glance toward the child clinging to your leg, Wanda scoffed and brushed a piece of hair over her shoulder. “If you think for a second-“

“Don’t be a party pooper, Aunt Wanda!” Nikolai giggled and ran over to her before pulling at her wrist. “Join us at the party! We’re gonna have a dinosaur dance! I want to show you my Velociraptor stickers!”

“I’ll pass,” she ignored the child pulling at her arm and turned around, her red curls bouncing with heavy stride further down the hallway.

With one look at the twins, you sighed deeply and turned the power off on the Bluetooth device before ushering the boys down the hallway. “I’m sorry our party got invaded by an evil witch, boys.”

“Don’t worry about her!” Nikolai said, skipping beside you. “She’s a meanie pants anyway. She’s never liked fun.”

“Yeah!” Alexei chuckled beside his brother. “This one time, me and Nik put shaving cream on her hand when he snuck into her bedroom and tickled her face! She didn’t talk to us for a whole week!” The brightness of their eyes brought you joy. “It was so worth it.”

“I would have loved to see her reaction.” You smiled.

“You can!” Alexei giggled. “We have a picture in our room in our closet! Come on!” Before you could even protest a single word, you found yourself being pulled by the force of two young children through the house and niether of them stopped until you were standing in the doorframe of their bedroom.

The room was large, far too large for it to be conserved for two small children. One half of the room was cluttered with space toys and painted navy blue with stars painted across the walls and ceiling, the other half painted mostly green and brown with trees and delicate dinosaurs of all types. You could tell these boys had separate interests at heart. You planned on taking both of them on field trips to their collective interests very soon. Eventually, Nikolai had helped in joy before rushing over to you and thrusting a crinkled photo into your hands.

The picture was of Wanda, face smeared in white shaving cream with a death glare pointed at whoever was behind the camera. You chuckled as you returned the photograph.

Before long, keys jingled down the hallway and you turned to see Pietro headed in your direction. A smile curled at his lips as he scooped down to grab his sons in each of his arms. “Turns out I’m not needed at that office today boys. Who wants to make a pillow fort in the living room?”

****

Hours later, you were finishing up in the bathroom before walking across the hallway to your own bedroom. You still couldn’t believe that Pietro wanted you to live in the house with him. You couldn’t believe that you had such a high paying job so soon after moving to the city. But you wouldn’t press your luck. The hour was growing late and you knew you had to wake up early to get the boys ready for school in the morning. Before you could sit in your bed, you noticed a tall silhouette standing in the doorway. His face was cast in shadow but you already knew who the body belonged to.

“Can I help you, Mister Maximoff?”

“I thought I told you the formalities wasn’t a necessity?” He asked before beckoning you closer to him. “I would first like to apologize about the late hour. With the boys being awake, it’s kind of hard to have a private conversation without them listening in. Would you care to join me in my office so I can ask you a few questions?”

“Yes, sir,” oh no. He found out about Winchester. What the hell am I going to do? Did Wanda find dirt on me? What the fuck is happening?

NEXT CHAPTER

[bittybattybunny]

If is alright with you may I ask about the Romcom and enemies to lovers aus? If not is fine and you can just ignore this ask

You can ask away!!!

What's on your mind? plots? I can give plot rundowns o7o

Romcom:

Arulius is a Fae Prince who was entered into a contract to win the love and marry the human woman Amaris 'Eclipse' Nightingale. he has 3 months to get her to agree to marriage or the contract becomes void and he fails (this will bring shame to his name) Eclipse is convinced the contract is due to her father creating a debt of some sort and is very against it. She tells Ru she'll pay back what her father borrowed and to forget the marriage. This confuses him and he's very invested in this working out as he likes humans. He's unable to tell her he's not human until the contract is completed or expired or if she finds out herself (and he can't manipulate it to get her to learn it)

What occurs over the next 3 months is a lot of shenanigans because this all takes place on a cruise ship. Eclipse is actually an employee on the ship hence another reason she's against this mess. So while she's working he's bothering humans for advice to woo her (and this includes advice from 4 children) and it's a mad house. Eclipse is also against it because she has a small secret herself, she has large silk moth wings. She hides them with a earring she wears and she's embarrassed by them. She doesn't get why this guy is trying so hard for her. Though she does find his attempts endearing and does slowly fall for him.

In this Ru is Genderfluid and actually doesn't really get the whole gender thing. he uses He/Him/They/Them/She/her what ever people want to use and doesn't really care because as a fae royal he can actually just change as he feels.

This leads to some embarrassment for Eclipse as he'll follow her into the women's bathrooms near the pool sometimes when he's talking to her.

as for the other currently it's called "No mercy" which is the song it's based on originally.

Arulius is a law student who does vtuber streaming on weekends. While playing "Killing Stage Overdraft" his favorite game (it's basically off brand overwatch) he ends up in a lobby after a string of losses and he gets grouchy on mic, he ends up getting sassed by another player. They wind up in the same matches and team the rest of the night with her berating his shitty attitude. Offline he goes to meet up with his crush and they are squishy dorks. Back in streams he ends up playing more with the sassy player. they have a bit of a rivalry in their matches despite the same team, and if she's on the other team she always swaps to a healer just to spite him. it becomes a routine for the two of them to bicker on stream and play together and she ends up more or less and actual friend where they actually will work together on occasion. Back offline he and his crush are getting closer over their love of KSO (he even buys her a keychain of her favorite character "Gravedigger" who's kinda like Reaper but more plague doctor themed) and they plan to go to a convention together. Meanwhile during his stream and he's talking with the sassy player she ends up getting interrupted mid match and laments how she has to cancel her date because of work. He gets a message same time his team qualified for the tournament at a local convention and is sad he's gonna have to cancel his date for it. She off hand mentions she's working panels at that convention and they end up parting for the night. The next day as he's talking to his friends one mentions the top "Hel" player will be attending the con "b30wulfGR1M" (Hel is the main healer character and the one His online rival will play when mocking him from another team) he's excited since if they place in the tournament high enough they'll get to play the "Lunar Wulf Pack" which is the team GR1M plays for. he's excited since he likes GR1M as a player and thinks the whole "helmet" motif is neat. GR1M in all their live appearances wears a electronic daft punk style wolf helmet (and I do have drawings of it) and doesn't give any info on themself out and when they talk they have a voice changer/modulator in their helmet that distorts their voice and it's part of their brand.

At the convention Ru is actually able to meet up with his crush, Eclipse, and they spend the day together having fun. She mentions she's glad she got a chance away from work to play since she's working some panels but they'll be in the evening. While they are having fun someone mocks her outfit (she's dressed as 'Hel') saying she's only doing it for the fanboys and bet she doesn't even play. She gets really agitated by this, the angriest Ru has ever seen her. She drags the guy to the game room and procures KSO and proceeds to completely destroy him a few times in a row before huffing and giving some trash talk of her own. it's at this moment Ru makes a connection. He realizes there are some very good odds that his crush and the sassy player may in fact be the same person. But this also confuses him because one of his close friends has a theory that the sassy player is GR1M based on when they play Hel on other teams. After an incident in the artist alley (Eclipse saw some really bad rule34 GR1M artwork that made her upset) she has to leave to run her panel. Ru asks which but she can't tell him due to her contract and leaves him there. Herschel and Bonnie end up finding him and dragging him to the GR1M meet and greet. While he's chatting with GR1M after getting an autograph he notices the Gravedigger keychain on their bag and comments he got the same one for the girl he likes. GR1M gets incredibly flustered and says they just adore Gravedigger but due to their teams set up they always get stuck being support, but when they play incognito on an alt account they just adore playing Gravedigger. Herschel asks GR1M's incognito name but they are ushered away.

During the tourny, Herschel ends up hurting his hand and has to drop, leaving just Ru and Bonnie which isn't enough for the matchups. Worried he's unsure what to do. GR1M is seen leaving and not long after Eclipse joins him. She plays Support and makes an off hand comment "the only time I'll play Hel for you." and it cements that she's "N0cturn" the player who sasses him on stream. He finds a lot of comfort in this and they end up placing 3rd in the ranking, which allows them to get to play teh brackets next day against GR1M's team.

However that night as Ru is going to his room there's an alert there was an attack at the convention and GR1M will be dropping due to being severely injured and in the hospital for their wounds. Ru ends up crestfallen but also worried because he can't get Eclipse to answer her phone (he was gonna ask her on a date but also since he has suspicions on her being both N0cturn and GR1M the fact GR1M was attacked makes him fear for her) An announcement goes out later that GR1M is being forced to retire from the pro gaming scene until further notice to to injuries sustained in their hand that will prevent them from using that hand for a few months at minimum.

And his fears are right. Eclipse is on campus the following monday with her entire left arm bandaged in a sling. It turned out the barista at the cafe she and Ru always met at had a one sided crush on her and had gone to the convention knowing she was going to be there, he assaulted her on the way to her hotel room with a box cutter and had gashed her arm up badly.

Ru ends up confessing he wants to date her and asks her point blank if she's N0cturn and then follows it asking if she's GR1M. She ends up confessing to both and that N0cturn is just her alt she uses when she's stressed. She confesses the entire reason she wears the helmet and keeps her identity secret (She had a lot of issues with sexism when she started of gaming and even tho the gaming scene has changed she's already established as this mysterious person. She also has really bad social anxiety so the helmet helps her interact with fans easier and deal with crowds) He tells her he doesn't care and wants her as his player 2 if she's down.

During his next stream he announces that N0cturn won't be playing WITH him but--- Eclipse pipes in from his mic she'll be teaching him how to play Hel, telling his stream he's met N0cturn offline and they are dating.

After her arm's healed she starts off getting back into games by streaming with Ru, he even got Herschel to model GR1M as a vtuber model and set it up for her

They play together on their streams, He's playing as Hel and she's Gravedigger and they are having a blast

No mercy has been my brain rot past 2 days lol