This clinical experience allowed me to not only gain more insight of the various therapies used but as well as participate within the groups. This week I was placed on the geriatrics unit, I assumed that this floor would lack interaction but I found myself busy throughout the entire shift. Breana and I were consistently interacting with the patients in the group therapy room by assisting patients with ordering food, ambulating to their rooms and bathroom as well as participating in therapy.
Having a clinical experience that broke my stereotype assumptions pertaining to geriatrics was enlightening and humoring. I was able to get out “my box” thinking about the patients and able to be in the present and learn as time went. Interacting with the patients was pleasant and joyful due to the gratitude we received from the tech, patients and nurses. I think that the specific date (April 1st), may have also played a part of my pleasant experience at clinical because the therapist used the date/holiday (April Fools) as a theme in their activities. Participating with the patients in April fool themed activities lightened the mood and brought entertainment. Today my knowledge about growth & development helped me when I was able to understand the content used in the activities as a purpose in creating a milieu environment.
In retrospect I realize that as a nurse you can never assume how your day may go because of the field of work and subjects, this profession deals with. Humans have the capability to change and are unpredictable, reminding me that no matter my assignment I should have an open mind and steer clear of assumptions. I feel that I am constantly learning new things about the human body and its relationship with treatment at clinical, especially in reference to mental health. I felt that laughter was used as a form of expression in therapy this week that provided positive interaction with the patients and therapists.
I am grateful that I was able to push aside my assumption and enjoy my clinical experience with the patients. My overall experience on the unit was positive and I would not mind returning in the future. With the understanding that I can assist the tech with collecting vitals I hope to be able to do so next time. I hope to seek and gain the opportunities to not only practice communication but as well as physical patient care. I enjoyed being able to interact with the patients and continue to work on therapeutic communication because I feel that it is a skill I will always being working on because there is no similar situation in this occupation that can be handled the same.