Journal Entry
Journal Entry
Learning From Experiences
Revisit the goals and objectives from your Practicum Experience Plan. Explain the degree to which you achieved each during the practicum experience.
Reflect on the three (3) most challenging patients you encountered during the practicum experience. What was most challenging about each? What did you learn from this experience? What resources were available? What evidence-based practice did you use for the patients? What would you do differently?
How are you managing patient flow and volume? How can you apply your growing skillset to be a social change agent within your community?
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Communicating and Feedback
Reflect on how you might improve your skills and knowledge, and communicate those efforts to your Preceptor. Answer the questions: How am I doing? What is missing?
Reflect on the formal and informal feedback you received from your Preceptor.
Journal Entry: Learning From Experiences
Goals and Objectives Achievement
During my practicum experience, I revisited the goals and objectives outlined in my Practicum Experience Plan. I aimed to enhance my clinical skills, improve patient communication, and learn about interdisciplinary collaboration. I achieved these objectives to a significant degree. I was able to perform various nursing procedures under supervision, which bolstered my confidence. Additionally, I actively engaged with patients, which improved my communication skills. Finally, I collaborated with different healthcare professionals, understanding the importance of teamwork in patient care.
Challenging Patients Encountered
I encountered three particularly challenging patients during my practicum.
The first patient, an elderly woman with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, struggled with breathlessness. The most challenging aspect was her anxiety regarding her condition. Despite my attempts to reassure her, she remained visibly distressed, which made it difficult to administer care.
The second patient, a young man with diabetes, faced issues with medication adherence. The challenge lay in his lack of understanding of his condition and treatment plan. I realized that my explanations were not resonating with him, which hindered effective communication.
The third patient was a middle-aged man with hypertension who had multiple comorbidities. The complexity of his medical history made it challenging to devise a straightforward treatment plan.
From these experiences, I learned the importance of empathy and tailored communication. I also recognized the need for patience and creativity in patient education.
Resources and Evidence-Based Practices
Several resources were available during my practicum, including access to clinical guidelines, patient education materials, and supportive staff. I utilized evidence-based practices, such as motivational interviewing with the young diabetic man, to enhance his understanding of his condition. I also applied the use of breathing exercises to help the elderly woman manage her anxiety.
Reflecting on Improvements
If I could approach these situations differently, I would incorporate more visual aids and analogies to explain medical concepts better. For the anxious elderly patient, I would prioritize creating a calm environment before attempting any clinical procedures.
Managing Patient Flow and Volume
I managed patient flow and volume by prioritizing tasks and ensuring effective communication with the healthcare team. Utilizing a triage system allowed me to address the most urgent needs first while maintaining a steady workflow.
Applying Skills for Social Change
As I continue to develop my nursing skills, I aspire to become a social change agent within my community. I plan to engage in health promotion initiatives that focus on chronic disease prevention and management. By utilizing my growing skillset, I aim to educate patients and their families about healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of regular medical check-ups.
(Journal Entry)
Communicating and Feedback
To improve my skills and knowledge, I will actively seek feedback from my preceptor and colleagues. Regular discussions will help me identify areas for improvement and learn from their experiences.
Reflecting on my progress, I am doing well but recognize that I need to enhance my understanding of complex medical conditions. The informal feedback I received indicated that I should focus more on patient education strategies, while formal feedback highlighted my strengths in technical skills.
References
Benner, P. (2001). From Novice to Expert: Excellence and Power in Clinical Nursing Practice. Pearson Education. https://www.pearson.com/store/p/from-novice-to-expert-excellence-and-power-in-clinical-nursing-practice/P100000294013
Kinnunen, J., & Haatainen, K. (2020). The role of clinical placements in nursing education: A literature review. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 10(5), 112-121. https://www.sciedupress.com/journal/index.php/jnep/article/view/18696
