NR 325 Week 2 Clinical Reflection
Student Name
Chamberlain University
NR-325 Adult Health II
Prof. Name
Date
Week 2 Clinical Reflection
Clinical Experience Overview
This week’s clinical rotation provided an enriching and eye-opening experience that significantly contributed to my growth as a nursing student. One of the most memorable encounters involved caring for a patient with a complex medical history. Observing how her previous conditions interconnected and influenced her post-surgical recovery was particularly enlightening. Although the surgery was initially considered successful, her pre-existing conditions introduced new challenges.
The patient had a history of atrial fibrillation, which resulted in an elevated heart rate. Additionally, despite never requiring supplemental oxygen at home, she became oxygen-dependent following surgery due to persistent difficulty in maintaining adequate SpO₂ levels. This situation underscored the importance of understanding the interplay between chronic health conditions and surgical outcomes.
Collaborative Learning and Nursing Responsibilities
My assigned nurse this week was exceptionally supportive and eager to provide guidance. She encouraged me to shadow her throughout the day, allowing me to participate in a variety of patient care activities. These included bathing a patient, facilitating a patient discharge, and transferring a patient between rooms.
I also had the opportunity to observe and assist with medication administration, including collaborating with another nurse for medication discharge procedures. Additionally, we set up a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pump, which required a second nurse’s verification to ensure the accuracy of dosing—a critical safety measure.
NR 325 Week 2 Clinical Reflection
The following table summarizes the key tasks performed and the skills practiced during this week’s clinical experience:
| Task/Activity | Description | Skills/Competencies Gained |
|---|---|---|
| Bathing a patient | Assisted with personal hygiene and comfort measures | Patient dignity, hygiene protocols, time management |
| Discharging a patient | Facilitated the discharge process, including paperwork and patient education | Communication skills, discharge teaching, collaboration with healthcare team |
| Transferring a patient | Moved a patient from one room to another | Patient safety, proper transfer techniques, teamwork |
| Assisting with medication discharge | Collaborated with another nurse to verify and prepare medications for discharge | Medication safety, legal compliance, attention to detail |
| Setting up a PCA pump | Prepared and programmed PCA pump with another nurse’s co-signature | Pain management protocols, device operation, double-check procedures |
| Taking vital signs and assessments | Measured vitals and performed head-to-toe assessment | Clinical assessment skills, prioritization, patient observation |
Building Patient Relationships
One of the highlights of the week was developing a strong rapport with my assigned patient. Forming meaningful relationships with patients had initially been one of my greatest fears. However, this week demonstrated that genuine connection is possible when active listening, empathy, and consistent presence are prioritized. By the end of the week, I felt more confident engaging with patients and providing care with compassion and professionalism.
Growth in Clinical Confidence
During my first week, I often felt uncertain and somewhat disoriented while navigating the unit. However, this week brought a noticeable increase in confidence and willingness to take initiative. I successfully performed a head-to-toe assessment and accurately measured vital signs, which previously felt daunting.
This experience highlighted the significant difference between theoretical learning and hands-on clinical practice. While skills taught in a classroom setting are valuable, applying them in a real healthcare environment fosters a deeper understanding and adaptability. Tasks such as head-to-toe assessments, which initially seemed overwhelming, became more intuitive once performed in a live clinical setting.
Reflection on Clinical Learning
Clinical practice offers an invaluable opportunity to discover one’s passion for nursing. Unlike simulated learning environments, in-person clinical work provides immediate feedback, real-world problem-solving opportunities, and exposure to the complexities of patient care. Even seemingly simple tasks require thoughtful consideration when performed in a hospital setting, as they are often influenced by patient-specific needs and conditions.
References
American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (4th ed.). ANA.
Ignatavicius, D. D., Workman, M. L., & Rebar, C. R. (2021). Medical-surgical nursing: Concepts for interprofessional collaborative care (10th ed.). Elsevier.
NR 325 Week 2 Clinical Reflection
Potter, P. A., Perry, A. G., Stockert, P., & Hall, A. (2023). Fundamentals of nursing (11th ed.). Elsevier.