With this being my first clinical experience, it can be hard to tell if I made an impact or a difference in a patient’s life. I feel like I am so new at performing nursing skills and have a lot to learn. However, I do feel like I made connections with some patients that may have made their hospital stay or day a bit brighter. The third and fourth weeks of clinical are where I started to feel comfortable and, in a sense, I feel like I belonged more than in the previous two weeks. These weeks are where I feel that I made some connections and was able to help patients in a more meaningful way.
One of my clinical days, I was placed with a patient who had a unique case. When I got their paperwork, I was nervous that it would be challenging, and I was unsure if I was ready to help the client. I was also having a difficult personal day, but I knew I needed to set this aside for my 6 hours at the hospital. As soon as I walked into their room, my whole mindset changed. I was greeted by someone who was in a chipper mood and eager to talk with me. I immediately felt relived and excited about my day ahead.
I was able to do vitals and a bedside assessment, along with just getting to know my patient. Physical therapy and occupational therapy also allowed me to view their sessions. I got spend a good portion of the day with this client and I was quickly able to learn about them, whether it was their pillow placement preference, or interests and occupation. This patient actually gave themselves a nickname that had to do with their particular placement of pillows. They showed me where they liked their 4 pillows placed and I was able to help them get comfortable in bed. Later in the day I was able to help them readjust after therapy, and I could tell they appreciated that I took the time to remember where they liked them placed. I felt good being able to help out, even in the smallest way.
Along with pillow placement, I was able to chat with this client for a good amount of time, really listening about her interests, family, friends, pets, and job. She also asked me a few questions about nursing school and my goals. I was able to keep her company and she was able to take my mind off of life outside of clinical. This day at clinical changed my perspective and I learned that not only can I make a difference, but patients can also make a difference in my life!
