I need one page only. NO APA format. about nursing homes, geriatrics. Remember, your journal entries are an important aspect of clinical learning as they serve to help you reflect upon and get the most out of your community practice experience. Therefore, your journal entry should include the who, what, where, and when of your community practice experience. Remember, this should simulate a dialogue that would normally take place face-to-face with your community practice experience instructor.
Journal Entry: Nursing Homes and Geriatrics
Date: [Date]
Location: [Name of Nursing Home/ Geriatric Facility]
Context: During my community practice experience, I had the opportunity to visit a nursing home dedicated to providing care for the elderly population. This experience allowed me to gain insights into the unique challenges and healthcare needs of geriatric patients.
Who: The nursing home I visited is a long-term care facility that provides comprehensive medical and social services to elderly individuals who require assistance with their daily activities and specialized care due to their age-related conditions. The facility is staffed by a multidisciplinary team that includes registered nurses, certified nursing assistants, physical therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals.
What: My visit to the nursing home involved observing the daily routines, interactions between staff and residents, and participating in educational sessions related to geriatric care. The goal was to gain a deeper understanding of the holistic care provided to the elderly population and to explore the role of nursing in promoting their health and well-being.
During my observation, I noticed that the nursing home had a warm and welcoming environment, designed to create a sense of home and provide a comfortable living space for the residents. The facility was equipped with specialized medical equipment and amenities to support the needs of geriatric patients, including handrails, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, and fall prevention measures.
The residents I interacted with ranged in age and had diverse health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and other chronic illnesses. It was evident that the staff members placed a strong emphasis on person-centered care, as they took the time to understand each resident’s individual needs and preferences.
The nursing role in this setting was diverse and multifaceted. Registered nurses were responsible for assessing residents’ overall health status, conducting physical examinations, administering medications, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals. They also played a crucial role in advocating for their patients, ensuring their safety, and promoting their quality of life.
The certified nursing assistants, on the other hand, provided direct care to the residents, assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. They formed a close bond with the residents and played a crucial role in maintaining their dignity and providing emotional support.
In addition to direct patient care, I observed various interdisciplinary team meetings and educational sessions. These sessions focused on topics such as geriatric pharmacology, dementia care, and best practices for promoting mobility and preventing falls. The collaborative nature of these meetings highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication in providing comprehensive care to the elderly population. It also emphasized the need for ongoing professional development and staying updated with evidence-based practices in geriatric care.
Overall, my community practice experience in this nursing home reinforced the importance of specialized care for geriatric patients. It also highlighted the critical role of nurses in managing the complex needs of the elderly population. This experience has further ignited my passion for geriatrics and strengthened my commitment to providing high-quality, person-centered care to this vulnerable population.
Reflection: This visit to the nursing home provided me with invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of working with geriatric patients. It broadened my understanding of the unique healthcare needs of the elderly and deepened my appreciation for the role of nursing in promoting their well-being. I found it particularly inspiring to witness the dedication and compassion of the healthcare professionals in the nursing home, as they demonstrated a person-centered approach to care and worked collaboratively to enhance the residents’ quality of life. This experience has further motivated me to pursue further education and training in geriatric nursing.