Narrative self-reflections. Shore Hill Senior Center, 9000 Shore Rd, Brooklyn, NY

Objective 1.  Demonstrate individual professionalism through personal behaviors and appearance.  In order to meet the course objective client confidentiality was maintained at all times during clinical practice. Assignments were completed according to its due dates. During clinical practice guidance from clinical instructor and staff members of senior center was obtained.  I participated actively in clinical post conferences. I was attending clinical site on time according to school policy. I dressed professionally; school ID was visible and worn throughout clinical practice.

Objective 2. Employ analytical reasoning and critical thinking skills when providing care to individual and families in the community setting.

In order to obtain client information residents were interview professionally. Access to nursing and medical records was obtained with the permission of clinical site coordinator. During client interview and home visiting the client was assessed for development, emotional, cultural, religious and spiritual influences. Physical assessment was performed on each resident during home visiting, including rehabilitation questionnaire. I prioritize client care based on analysis of data.  I utilized principles of client’s personal safety when working in the community settings. Client’s living environment was assessed for safety. Any observed safety issues reported immediately to service coordinator and clinical instructor. I provided teaching to each visited client. Outcomes of teaching were assessed for its effectiveness.

Objective 3. Effectively communicate with diverse groups and disciplines using a variety of strategies regarding the health needs of individuals and families in the community setting.

During client assessment and home visiting I utilized the principles of therapeutic communication. Appropriate channels of communications were selected according to clients needs. Different channels were applied, such as power point presentations including visual pictures, statistical data. In order to provide the most effective client care I communicated with clinical instructor, peers and health care team accordingly. The communication skills were selected according to the developmental needs of the client and community.

Objective 4. Establish environment conductive to learning and use a plan for learners based on evidence-based practice.

We developed and implemented a teaching plan for an adults and family in the community setting.  Environment was established for the successive learning. All medical and nursing terms was translated and explained according to clients needs. For non English speaking clients all information was translated to the native language by professional and certified translators. All clients received pre and post test questionnaire about the selected topic. Outcome information was evaluated and analyzed thoroughly for its effectiveness.

Objective 5. Utilize informational technology when managing individual and families in the community

I utilize the principles of nursing informatics in the client area. Client’s confidentiality was maintained according to policies of the setting and HIPPA regulation. All private information was not discussed in inappropriate manner. Informed consent was obtained before performing physical assessment, such as blood pressure screening and home visiting. By the completion of each clinical practice all informed consents were submitted to the appropriate personal.

Objective 6. Demonstrate professional commitment to professional development 

Client care was planned and based on current standards of nursing practice. Client teaching was based on current research evidence’ elements of evidence based practice were included. Responsibilities for lifelong learning were assumed and commitment to nursing profession was demonstrated.  Throughout clinical practice I engaged in self evaluation in order to assess myself for weakness and strength.

Objective 7.  Incorporate professional nursing standards and accountability into practice.

Through clinical practice the standards of American Nurses Association were implemented during client care and teaching in the community. Agency standards of practice were followed during clinical practice.

Objective 8. Collaborate with clients, significant support persons and members of the health care team.

In order to address the client needs more effectively I communicated with health care team on a regular basis. Therapeutic interventions were based on individual clients needs. During home visiting, screening and teaching health care resources were identified and suggested to the client. Social services, home attendant services were offered to appropriate clients.  Families and clients were guided to make appropriate changes in terms of their life style and treatment choices.

Objective 9. Recognize the impact of economic, political, social and demographic forces that affect the delivery of health care services.

Gaps in health care system with the help of clinical instructor were recognized and discussed. The attempts were made to resolve complex problems with the assistance of multidisciplinary team, such as social and medical services. During home visiting I was trying to advocate for appropriate health care resources for client/families. Clients in need were identified and referred to appropriate agencies.