Clinical Reflections

I finally finished my last round of clinicals for Block 1 of the nursing program and I have learned so much!

Note to self:

Do not allow yourself to become the kind of nurse that does not listen, ignores the needs of her patients (no matter how small), or resents being at work daily thereby forgetting the foundations of good nursing. You decided to be a nurse to empower patients, care for those in need, and to feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day.

I think this week was my favorite in clinical. I absolutely enjoyed working with my patient. While they thanked me for going the extra mile, I was thankful that this young woman (soon to be mother) and her husband allowed me to participate in her recovery. She is so strong - suffering from spinal injury and 16wks pregnant she is doing all she can to regain her neuro and muscle strength. It is a daily reminder of just how blessed you are to be able to pick up a fork to eat, walk on your own, or simply bathe yourself. Her strength pushed me to ignore the fact that my shadowing nurse only came into her room once in the morning (to give meds) during my entire shift. I took the initiative to give her a bed bath since she had an indwelling catheter (to prevent infection), educate them about the possible effects of the narcotics prescribed to her for pain can have on her 16wk old fetus, and to encourage position changes (to prevent bed sores). I realize that RN's have a heavy work load, but what is a couple of minutes in the day to at least pop in and see how your patient is doing and their needs? My belief is that nursing is not just about collecting a big check, pushing meds, or taking short cuts; however, I see just how easy it is to fall into that trap when its done daily.

The other thing that baffles me is just how rude and noncompliant some RN's can be in teaching: if you work at a teaching hospital don't get pissed when you get a student nurse. After all you were once in our shoes and if nobody took the time to teach them where would they be? We are all learners and teachers throughout life as nurses. Each one teach one right?