Benchmark – Professional Capstone and Practicum Reflective Journal

QUESTION

Reflective Writing

3 pages / 825 words

Subject:

Nursing

Sources:

2 sources required

Style: APA

Description

Students are required to maintain weekly reflective narratives throughout the course to combine into one course-long reflective journal that integrates leadership and inquiry into current practice as it applies to the Professional Capstone and Practicum course. In your journal, you will reflect on the personal knowledge and skills gained throughout this course. The journal should address a variable combination of the following, depending on your specific practice immersion clinical experiences: New practice approaches Intraprofessional collaboration Health care delivery and clinical systems Ethical considerations in health care Population health concerns The role of technology in improving health care outcomes Health policy Leadership and economic models Health disparities Students will outline what they have discovered about their professional practice, personal strengths and weaknesses that surfaced, additional resources and abilities that could be introduced to a given situation to influence optimal outcomes, and finally, how the student met the competencies aligned to this course. While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and in-text citations and references should be presented using APA documentation guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion. You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Please refer to the directions in the Student Success Center. I working in home in Chicago and would like journal to be based on home health and the course which is Capstone

ANSWER

 Reflective Journal on Home Health Nursing and the Capstone Course

Introduction

Throughout the Professional Capstone and Practicum course, I have gained valuable knowledge and skills in the field of nursing, particularly in the context of home health care. This reflective journal aims to consolidate my weekly reflections into a comprehensive account of my professional growth, incorporating leadership and inquiry into current practice. As a home health nurse in Chicago, I have encountered various aspects of nursing practice, including new approaches, collaboration, ethical considerations, health care systems, technology, health policy, economic models, and health disparities. This journal will delve into my experiences, self-assessment, identified strengths and weaknesses, and the competencies I have acquired during this course.

New Practice Approaches

Throughout my practice immersion in home health care, I have discovered new practice approaches that have enhanced the delivery of care to patients. By utilizing evidence-based interventions tailored to the unique needs of each individual, I have been able to optimize outcomes. For instance, implementing telehealth technology has allowed me to conduct virtual visits, monitor patients remotely, and provide education and support. This approach has not only improved patient satisfaction but also increased accessibility to care, particularly for those who face geographical or mobility challenges.

Intraprofessional Collaboration

Collaboration with interdisciplinary team members has been essential in the home health care setting. I have actively engaged in communication and coordination with physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals involved in a patient’s care. This collaborative approach has facilitated comprehensive care planning, improved patient outcomes, and ensured the delivery of holistic and patient-centered care.

Healthcare Delivery and Clinical Systems

Working in home health care has given me insight into the intricacies of healthcare delivery and clinical systems. I have learned to navigate various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and patient homes. Coordinating care transitions, managing medications, and ensuring continuity of care have been crucial aspects of my practice. Additionally, I have gained knowledge of the importance of documentation and electronic health records, as they play a significant role in facilitating communication and information exchange among healthcare providers.

Ethical Considerations in Health Care

In my home health nursing practice, I have encountered numerous ethical considerations. Respect for patient autonomy, privacy, and confidentiality has been paramount. I have encountered situations where patients have made decisions that may not align with my recommendations, but it is essential to honor their autonomy while providing them with the necessary information to make informed choices. Furthermore, I have encountered ethical dilemmas surrounding end-of-life care and the allocation of limited resources. These experiences have reinforced the need for ethical decision-making frameworks and constant evaluation of one’s own values and biases.

Population Health Concerns

Home health nursing has exposed me to various population health concerns, particularly in underserved communities in Chicago. Health disparities, socioeconomic factors, and access to healthcare have a profound impact on the well-being of individuals and communities. I have witnessed the importance of health promotion and disease prevention initiatives to address these concerns (Althouse et al., 2014). By providing education, resources, and referrals, I have been able to contribute to the overall health improvement of the population I serve.

The Role of Technology in Improving Health Care Outcomes

Technology has revolutionized healthcare delivery, and its impact is evident in home health care. I have integrated technology into my practice to enhance patient care and outcomes. Remote monitoring devices, mobile applications, and telehealth platforms have facilitated communication, improved patient compliance, and enhanced patient education. Embracing technological advancements has enabled me to provide efficient and effective care, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.

Health Policy, Leadership, and Economic Models

Understanding health policy, leadership principles, and economic models has been instrumental in optimizing patient care. Through this course, I have explored various policies that shape healthcare delivery and reimbursement in the home health setting (Nicola et al., 2020). Additionally, I have developed leadership skills, allowing me to advocate for my patients and contribute to quality improvement initiatives. Understanding economic models has given me insight into the financial implications of healthcare decisions and the importance of cost-effective care delivery.

Health Disparities

Home health nursing has exposed me to the significant health disparities that exist in our society. Racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic factors contribute to these disparities, leading to inequities in access to care and health outcomes (Braveman, 2006). As a nurse, it is my responsibility to be aware of these disparities and actively work towards reducing them. I strive to provide culturally competent care, address social determinants of health, and advocate for health equity in all aspects of my practice.

Conclusion

Throughout the Professional Capstone and Practicum course, my experiences in home health nursing have significantly contributed to my professional growth. This reflective journal has allowed me to explore and evaluate the knowledge and skills I have acquired. I have identified my strengths and weaknesses, recognized the importance of collaboration and ethical decision-making, and embraced the role of technology in improving healthcare outcomes. Moreover, I have deepened my understanding of health policy, leadership principles, economic models, and health disparities. By reflecting on my practice, I am better equipped to meet the competencies aligned with this course and continue providing high-quality care to my patients.

References

Althouse, B. M., Allem, J., Childers, M. C., Dredze, M., & Ayers, J. W. (2014). Population Health Concerns During the United States’ Great Recession. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 46(2), 166–170. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2013.10.008

Braveman, P. (2006). HEALTH DISPARITIES AND HEALTH EQUITY: Concepts and Measurement. Annual Review of Public Health, 27(1), 167–194. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.publhealth.27.021405.102103 

Nicola, M., Sohrabi, C., Mathew, G., Kerwan, A., Al-Jabir, A., Griffin, M., Agha, M., & Agha, R. (2020). Health policy and leadership models during the COVID-19 pandemic: A review. International Journal of Surgery, 81, 122–129. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijsu.2020.07.026