insensible loss


frank or
heavily bloodstained

red: may appear velvety
twelve views of the heart
murmur, rubs, gallops, kicks

ask the patient: point to the pain
(pain can refer)
work of breathing

quality: characteristics of pain
regularly irregular

water follows salt
salt sucks, cells swell
sympathetic outflow

lubb dubb (lubb … lubbdubb)
onset: circumstances associated with pain

the heart’s maximum point of impulse
provoke: worsening and

relieving factors

derangement
absolute waste

It is our moral dutie.
To not walk past.

In noting the current crisis
We move that, and that,
And that,
And that,
And that

It is not reasonable nor just to
Repeat ad nauseam   
Unsubstantiated claims that

Do
Harm

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
the nurse–patient relationship is at the centre
of

(a war of terror a sea of limbs a deluge of sewage a mass grave) a sniper’s bullseye

~~~~~~~~~~~~
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We learn in silence which side to run the zip of a body bag, which toe to tag. We learn in silence the cruel mimicry of infant mannequins; splayed hips, soft chest. We learn in silence.

 

 

Alex McInnis

Alex McInnis is an emerging writer raised on Dharug Country. Her first book of poetry — as good a woman as ever made bread — was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards in 2024. Her writing is embedded in her practice as a student nurse and socialist.

More by Alex McInnis ›

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