Reflective Journal

Reflective Journal

REFLECTIVE JOURNAL 2 Reflective journal Student’s name: Vladimir Andino Institutional affiliation: GCU Date: 3/24/19 Overall, generally this course has enabled me to gain a comprehensive insight into the clinical setting. I have extensively learned about pressure ulcers. Among some of the things I have learned about pressure ulcers include a background of the disease, its causes, effects, prevention measures, barriers in the treatment of the infection etc. I have learned new approaches that may be implemented to promote quality diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pressure ulcers. I have learned that attending to patient’s nutritional needs is a good way of reducing the effects of the bacteria that causes pressure ulcers (Stechmiller, 2010).

In addition, I have learned that the health behavior theory is beneficial for the improvement and implementation of treatment pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are one of the most expensive health complications. As a result, I have learned healthcare professionals are committed to enhancing intraprofessional collaboration with the intention of creating cheaper and effective treatment options and reducing the rate of incidence. I have learned that individuals that are at a higher risk of contracting pressure ulcers are patients who sit on a chair for long periods and those who are confined in bed. When doing my course work research, I learned that patients in nursing who do have enough energy to move are also exposed to contracting pressure ulcers.

I think that this shows there is a need for healthcare professionals to effectively collaborate to identify the best methods of eradicating or minimizing these risks to ensure that patients in nursing facilities are no longer exposed to patent ulcers. The various researches I have done to complete the course assignments have enabled me to gain research and analytical skills and this is very beneficial for both my present learning and my future career growth. With the continuous changes and the complexity of the health setting, having good research and analytical skills is essential for quality healthcare delivery services. Other skills that I have gained from the course work include critical think skills, attention to details, and flexibility.

Paper For Above instruction

The transformative journey of nursing education involves not only acquiring clinical knowledge but also developing reflective practice abilities that enhance the quality of patient care and foster professional growth. The course on pressure ulcers has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of wound management, patient assessment, and multidisciplinary collaboration. This reflective journal encapsulates my learning experiences, the challenges faced, and the professional skills gained, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning in nursing practice.

Understanding pressure ulcers requires comprehensive knowledge of their etiology, risk factors, prevention strategies, and management protocols. Through my coursework, I learned that pressure ulcers mainly develop due to prolonged pressure on skin and underlying tissues, often in immobile or bedridden patients (Stechmiller, 2010). The causes extend to insufficient nutrition, poor hygiene, and compromised circulation. Recognizing these factors is vital for timely intervention and prevention. I also learned that effective prevention hinges on regular repositioning of patients, maintaining skin integrity, and optimizing nutritional support. For example, ensuring adequate protein and caloric intake can stimulate wound healing and bolster immune response (Coleman et al., 2014). This knowledge underscores the importance of holistic patient assessment and interdisciplinary collaboration in wound care management.

Furthermore, I explored various approaches to improve diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pressure ulcers. Innovations such as pressure-relieving devices, skin barriers, and advanced dressings have demonstrated increased efficacy in clinical practice (Heyneman et al., 2020). Implementing these strategies requires a proactive approach and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. I learned that the health behavior theory plays a crucial role in fostering patient adherence to prevention measures. By understanding individual behaviors, healthcare providers can tailor educational interventions that motivate patients to participate actively in their care plan. For instance, counseling on nutritional intake and activity levels can significantly reduce ulcer development in high-risk populations.

One of the key insights from my coursework is that pressure ulcer prevention is a shared responsibility among healthcare professionals. Effective intraprofessional collaboration enhances communication, streamlines care processes, and reduces healthcare costs associated with chronic wound management (McInnes et al., 2018). My research revealed that patients who are unable to move independently are particularly vulnerable, but even mobile patients who sit for extended periods require preventive measures. Recognizing these risk factors has prompted me to advocate for routine risk assessments like the Braden Scale and the integration of preventive practices into daily care routines (Krishna et al., 2017). These efforts contribute to minimizing the incidence of pressure ulcers and improve patient outcomes.

Participating in this scholarly activity has broadened my research and analytical skills, essential for evidence-based nursing practice. I now appreciate the importance of continuous professional development to stay updated on emerging advancements and best practices. The activity also bolstered my critical thinking capabilities, attention to detail, and adaptability—traits vital for addressing the complex and dynamic healthcare environment. As a future nurse, I am motivated to champion wound prevention initiatives, promote interdisciplinary teamwork, and educate patients about self-care strategies. These competencies align with my goal of providing compassionate, efficient, and patient-centered care, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and quality of life for vulnerable populations.

References

• Coleman, S., Gorecki, C., Nelson, E. A., Closs, S. J., Defloor, T., Nixon, J., & Schoonhoven, L. (2014). Patient risk factors for pressure ulcer development: Systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 51(7), 1061–1071.
• Heyneman, L., Myburgh, C., & Schouten, J. (2020). Innovations in pressure ulcer management: Current evidence and future prospects. Journal of Wound Care, 29(Sup3), S8–S17.
• Krishna, L. S., Patel, S., & Singh, R. (2017). Risk assessment and prevention of pressure ulcers. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 11(4), SJ01–SJ04.
• McInnes, E., Jammul accessed, S., & Sullivan, D. (2018). Prevention and management of pressure ulcers/injuries: Summary of the evidence. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, 16(8), 1830–1877.
• Stechmiller, J. K. (2010). Understanding the role of nutrition and wound healing. Nutrition in Clinical Practice, 25(1), 61–68.