Clinical Reflection Essay

The first day of clinical is often a nerve-racking time. There are many uncertainties about what will happen in the eight hour period. In the first hour, however, it was apparent that these nerves were for nothing. I immediately started learning what it meant to be a nurse on the mother baby unit and what it is like to be part of a nursing team. The group of nurses on this unit was not only knowledgeable but also encouraging. It was through this encouragement that I not only was able to identify some weaknesses to work on, but also some strengths I possessed. When I first arrived on the unit, it was shift change. This meant that all of the nurses were giving report to each other. The nurses that were giving report easily identified the most important information about each client and gave a concise report. While I was watching this exchange I couldn’t help think about how I do not know how to give a very effective report. I have practiced SBAR before, but it is still very difficult. Since this seems to be a very important aspect in nursing, I would like to practice this skill more. Our clinical group leaves before the next shift change, so I know I will most …show more content…
I was able to really communicate well with the nurse that was mentoring me, along with the other nurses. Before going into every room she would tell me what she was going to be doing. Then I would have time to ask questions. Then when we were done assessing the patient, she would let me ask her question about what I saw. She also asked me what I thought about certain assessments such as the LATCH score and fetal heart rate. It was through this open communication that I was able to learn a lot more about the hospital works. I also interacted with the other nurses. I asked them if I could be part of the heel stick test and hearing test. I am happy that I did, because it was a very interesting process to