Finding Your Way On Placement
Fatimin is going into her second year studying Adult Nursing.
My recent placement on the respiratory ward was an incredibly enriching experience, providing me with a wealth of skills and knowledge that I will carry forward into my future nursing career. It was an environment that not only challenged me but also highlighted the vital importance of patient-centred care. Throughout my time there, I was immersed in a hands-on learning experience, interacting with patients and healthcare professionals, which significantly enhanced my clinical skills and understanding of respiratory medicine.
One of the most gratifying aspects of the placement was the opportunity to engage directly with patients. This interaction was not just about performing clinical tasks; it was an exercise in empathy and communication. I learnt the importance of listening carefully to patients’ concerns, which often went beyond their immediate medical issues. Through these conversations, I gained a deeper appreciation for the holistic nature of healthcare. Many patients expressed gratitude for my attentiveness and dedication, which was a humbling and motivating experience. It reinforced the impact that compassionate care can have on a patient's overall well-being and recovery.
Working alongside a team of experienced healthcare professionals, I was able to develop a range of clinical skills. The learning environment was supportive, with junior doctors and nurses providing valuable guidance and feedback. They were always willing to answer my questions, no matter how trivial they might have seemed. This openness to inquiry fostered a learning atmosphere that encouraged me to delve deeper into the pathophysiology of respiratory conditions, the rationale behind various treatment modalities, and the complexities of managing chronic respiratory diseases.
The placement offered me numerous opportunities to enhance my clinical skills under the supervision of experienced nurses and doctors. I learned to perform respiratory assessments, including auscultation of breath sounds and monitoring oxygen saturation levels. Additionally, I gained experience in administering respiratory therapies such as nebulisers and oxygen therapy. Assisting with procedures like chest drains provided me with practical insights into the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory conditions. The guidance and feedback from senior nurses were invaluable, helping me refine my techniques and improve my confidence in handling clinical tasks.
The ward was also an excellent environment for understanding the interprofessional aspects of healthcare. Working closely with junior doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and pharmacists highlighted the collaborative nature of patient care. Each member of the team brought a unique perspective and set of skills, which were crucial in delivering comprehensive care. I was particularly inspired by the junior doctors, who demonstrated a strong commitment to patient care and often went above and beyond their duties. Their dedication was evident in their willingness to spend extra time with patients, ensuring that they understood their conditions and the treatments being provided. This level of care did not go unnoticed, and I received positive feedback from both patients and colleagues, noting my similar commitment to going the extra mile. When I got praised by my ward manager who followed to say that one of the junior doctors saw I was going above and beyond made me feel seen and appreciated.
A significant part of my learning involved understanding the pathophysiology of various respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia. This theoretical knowledge was crucial for recognising symptoms, understanding disease progression, and implementing appropriate nursing interventions. The ward rounds and case discussions with the multidisciplinary team were particularly enlightening. These sessions allowed me to observe how complex cases were managed and how care plans were tailored to meet the individual needs of patients. It also highlighted the importance of evidence-based practice and the continuous evaluation of treatment efficacy.
Throughout my placement, I was continually encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification, which significantly enhanced my learning experience. The healthcare professionals I worked with were always willing to share their knowledge and experiences, providing a supportive and nurturing environment. This openness to inquiry allowed me to explore topics in greater depth, from understanding the pharmacology of respiratory medications to the principles of infection control. It also fostered a culture of continuous learning and professional development, which is essential in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.
The positive feedback I received from both patients and colleagues was a testament to the hard work and dedication I invested during my placement. Patients often thanked me for my hard work and attentiveness, which was incredibly fulfilling and reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in medicine. Moreover, junior doctors and other members of the healthcare team acknowledged my efforts, noting that I consistently went above and beyond in my duties. This recognition was not just a personal achievement but also a reflection of the supportive and nurturing environment that the respiratory ward provided.
In conclusion, my placement on the respiratory ward was a profoundly educational and inspiring experience. It equipped me with a diverse set of clinical skills, deepened my understanding of respiratory care, and highlighted the importance of compassionate, patient-centred nursing. The opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, engage with patients, and contribute to a collaborative healthcare team was invaluable. This experience has solidified my passion for nursing and has provided me with a strong foundation to build upon as I continue my education and future career in nursing.