Communication
As a Licensed Practical Nurse working in a dynamic healthcare environment, I have come to appreciate that effective communication within a multidisciplinary work environment is essential to achieving quality patient care. My experience as an LPN has shown me that mastering the art of communication involves more than just simply sharing information; it encompasses building relationships, fostering trust, and advocating for the well-being of my patients. Effective communication is the building block that we as nurses utilize to achieve successful collaboration, thus enabling healthcare professionals to work cohesively towards common goals. In my role, I have learned that listening attentively, empathizing with patients and colleagues, and conveying information clearly and compassionately are vital skills that can make a significant difference in patient outcomes.
One of my greatest strengths is engaging in active listening. When I interact with a patient or their family, I intentionally listen with empathy, without interrupting. This helps me deeply understand their worries, fears, and expectations. By being completely present during these conversations, I can provide the emotional support they need and create a safe space for them to express themselves freely. In addition to active listening, I pride myself on my clarity in communication. Whether I am explaining a medical procedure, providing discharge instructions, or discussing a treatment plan, I ensure that my explanations are clear and easy to understand. I avoid medical jargon and use simple language to ensure that my patients and their families grasp the information I am sharing. This not only empowers them to make informed decisions but also reduces anxiety and confusion. Another one of my strengths is being able to adjust how I communicate based on who I’m talking to. As a nurse, I work with a lot of different people, including patients of all ages, backgrounds, and education levels. I recognize that everyone is unique, so I change my approach to make sure my message gets across effectively. For instance, when I’m chatting with older patients, I make sure to speak slowly and clearly, and I use visuals when necessary to help them understand better.
Teamwork is also another key aspect that is crucial for top-notch patient care, and my use of proper communication skills helps to create a positive environment at work. I keep conversations open and respectful with all my colleagues, whether they’re doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals. By sharing information and collaborating, we can collectively make choices that are geared to the most optimal care for our patients. Good communication within the healthcare team is key to a successful and happy workplace. Additionally, Advocacy is a crucial role of mine as a nurse and is where my communication skills shine. I am passionate about advocating for my patient’s needs and rights. Whether it involves speaking up during multidisciplinary team meetings or addressing concerns with senior staff, I ensure that my patients’ voices are heard, and their best interests are represented. I approach these situations with confidence and assertiveness, always prioritizing the well-being of those under my care.
In conclusion, being able to communicate well within a healthcare setting is imperative for promoting the most optimal care for our patients. I am always looking for ways to improve my communication skills as a nurse, whether it be through training or hands-on experience. My skills in really listening, being clear, adapting to different situations, working with others, and standing up for my patients help me give them the caring, personalized attention they deserve. By actively exercising proper communication, I am not just making things better for my patients but also helping create a more supportive and team-focused healthcare setting for all those around me.
Evidence Supporting Communication
1.1 Community Care Visits Certificate
1.2 Home Health Time Limited Nursing Certificate
1.3 Performing De-escalation Strategies Certificate
1.4 Respond to the Risk: Determine When and How to Get Help Certificate
1.5 Report and Communicate Post-Incident
Teamwork and Leadership
As a Licensed Practical Nurse, I’ve had the privilege of working in diverse healthcare environments, where teamwork and effective communication are crucial to maintaining the highest standards of patient care. Throughout my nursing career, I’ve learned that the ability to collaborate with others isn’t just a nice-to-have skill—it’s essential for thriving in a multidisciplinary setting. Throughout my career, I have worked in various settings, from high-pressure hospital units to long-term care facilities. My interactions with diverse patients and healthcare professionals have presented unique challenges and opportunities for growth as an LPN. I have learned the importance of fostering mutual respect and open communication while coordinating with doctors, nurses, and support staff during emergencies and participating in interdisciplinary team meetings on patient care.
Recognizing my leadership style has helped me communicate and share how I guide and support my colleagues. I always try to lead by example, showing a strong work ethic, empathy, and dedication to continuous learning. By being aware of and accepting both my strengths and areas for improvement, I’m able to provide better mentorship and support to those around me. In addition to clinical skills, my journey has taught me the value of adaptability and resilience. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and being able to navigate changes with a positive attitude and a proactive mindset is crucial. Whether it’s adopting new technologies, implementing updated protocols, or addressing unforeseen challenges, I am dedicated to maintaining a high standard of care while continuously seeking ways to enhance my professional practice.
In the demanding field of healthcare, teamwork is the cornerstone of delivering quality patient care. One of the most memorable experiences that highlighted the importance of cooperative work was during a particularly challenging shift at the hospital. A patient with complex medical needs required immediate attention, and it became evident that no single individual could manage the situation alone. It was at this moment that our multidisciplinary team came together, each member bringing their unique expertise and perspective to the table. As we coordinated our efforts, from the initial assessment to the implementation of the care plan, I witnessed the power of collaboration in action. This experience reinforced my belief that when we work together, we can achieve outcomes far beyond what any of us could accomplish individually.
Understanding my leadership style has been a journey of self-discovery and reflection. I have learned that my approach to leadership is rooted in empathy and empowerment. I believe in leading by example and showing compassion and dedication in every task I undertake. By actively listening to my colleagues and valuing their input, I create an environment where everyone feels heard and respected. This, in turn, fosters a sense of trust and cooperation, which is vital for effective teamwork. One specific instance that allowed me to demonstrate my leadership style was during the orientation of a new nurse on our unit. Recognizing the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompanies starting a new job, I took it upon myself to provide guidance and support. I encouraged the new nurse to ask questions, shared my own experiences, and offered constructive feedback. By doing so, I aimed to build their confidence and help them integrate smoothly into the team. This experience not only strengthened our working relationship but also underscored the importance of mentorship and the positive impact it can have on both the individual and the team.
Articulating and sharing my leadership style has also involved being open to feedback and continuously striving for improvement. I regularly seek input from my colleagues on my performance and make a conscious effort to address any areas where I can grow. By embracing a growth mindset, I demonstrate my commitment to personal and professional development, which in turn inspires others to do the same.
In the end, being an LPN has taught me that teamwork and understanding my leadership style are key to moving the group forward. I’ve found that effective collaboration and empathetic leadership not only improve patient care but also build a positive and supportive work environment. By constantly reflecting on and refining my approach, I aim to be a leader who empowers others and promotes a culture of teamwork and excellence.
Evidence Supporting Teamwork and Leadership
2.1 OHS for Leaders: Implement Controls – Prevention Activities
2.2 Diversity and Inclusion Education: Unconscious Bias – Managing the Impact of Our Biases
2.3 Diversity and Inclusion Education: Foundation of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in the Workplace
2.4 CHSC Code White Station Responder Training
Information Gathering and Organization
Over the years as a nurse, I’ve had the amazing privilege of working in various healthcare environments, each with its unique challenges. These experiences have helped me sharpen my skills in organizing and collecting information. One of the most crucial parts of my job is handling a wide range of documents and data, which requires me to gather, sort through, and present information to my patients and their multidisciplinary teams. Through hands-on experiences, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge that has fueled my dedication to a career filled with continuous learning opportunities. In this essay, I’ll share some of my personal experiences that highlight my proficient skills in managing and organizing information effectively and efficiently.
When admitting a new patient, I dive deep into their medical background, carefully noting their current medications, past treatments, and any allergies they may have. This thoroughness plays a crucial role in providing my patients with safe and effective care, as even a minor mistake could potentially mean life or death in this line of work. This job is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about painting a comprehensive picture of each patient’s health to tailor the best possible care plan. Furthermore, my role when it comes to data collection involves not only organizing said information but also interpreting it to help aid my team in finding any potential complications that may occur and then, in turn coordinating that with the rest of our team. Whether I am working with physicians, other fellow nurses, or speaking with the patient’s family, I always strive to ensure that everyone who is involved has a clear and up-to-date understanding concerning the patient’s recovery. I can do this promptly as I try to always collect information that is most pertinent to the patient’s presenting ailments.
Through hands-on experience and continuous learning, I’ve honed my skills in managing and organizing information. My commitment to excellence in these tasks reflects my dedication to the well-being of my patients and my passion for the nursing profession. Once I have collected all the information I need, the next step in this process is to sort and organize everything in a concise and meaningful way. In a busy hospital setting, quick access to accurate information can make a significant difference in patient outcomes. Over the years I have developed efficient systems for organizing patient records, both electronically and in paper form. I do this by categorizing information based on relevance and urgency, which helps me to ensure that everything is easily accessible to the healthcare team when needed. This part is extremely important to help our fellow nurses as nothing is worse than coming on to shift with a patient who barely has any of their paperwork done, which ultimately puts a hindrance on their ability to properly care for that patient.
The next important step is putting together all the information we’ve collected. By doing this, I can help improve patient outcomes and their overall care experience. After that, I need to share everything I’ve organized with the healthcare team. As a nurse, it’s important to make sure everyone involved—patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals—understands the medical stuff. To get my points across effectively, I work on being clear and straightforward when I present information. This might mean going over a treatment plan with a patient or discussing a case with a doctor. I always try to make the information easy to grasp and useful. I often use visual aids, charts, and diagrams to help explain things better. These tools help make sure everyone is on the same page.
I think overall I have sufficiently proved how I have developed my skills in gathering, sorting, synthesizing, and presenting information through my daily practice as a nurse and in the organization of my portfolio. This actively illustrates my proficiency in these areas and my commitment to continuous professional development.
Evidence Supporting Information Gathering and Organization
3.1 Privacy and Security Training
3.2 Home Health: MRC and CCCP Meditech Documentation
3.3 Introduction to Critical Care Flowsheet
3.4 Recognize Risks and Behaviors
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
As an LPN, I have often found myself in situations that demanded quick thinking, effective problem-solving, and informed decision-making. My role in the healthcare environment has shaped me into a professional who can navigate complex scenarios, assess various options, and make decisions that prioritize patient care and well-being. This could look like dealing with a sudden influx of patients needing to be admitted to the unit, or navigating through an emergency, I have learned that it is important to stay calm and focused on these scenarios, even when under immense pressure. A valuable skill to have is the ability to efficiently evaluate these situations so you can spot potential issues and come up with a solution in an efficient manner. This helps me to ensure that I can provide a safe and comfortable mode of care to my patients. I like to draw from the collective knowledge and experiences that my other team members bring to the table that I may not. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a stronger sense of responsibility and a deeper commitment to providing the most optimal care to my patients.
One instance stands out as a testament to my problem-solving abilities. During a particularly busy shift at the clinic where I work, we encountered an unexpected influx of patients. Our resources were stretched thin, and tensions were running high. Amid the chaos, a patient arrived with symptoms of severe allergic reaction—anaphylaxis. As the primary healthcare provider at that moment, I knew that every second was critical. I quickly assessed the patient’s condition and recognized the immediate need for epinephrine. However, our supply was depleted due to the earlier emergencies. I had to think on my feet. I immediately instructed a colleague to call for an ambulance while I administered other supportive measures to stabilize the patient. Simultaneously, I communicated with the pharmacy team to expedite the replenishment of our emergency medications.
While we waited for the ambulance, I continuously monitored the patient’s vital signs, providing reassurance and support. My decision to act swiftly and communicate effectively ensured that the patient received timely care, which ultimately saved their life. This experience highlighted the importance of staying calm under pressure, assessing available options, and making decisive actions. Moreover, my role as an LPN extends beyond immediate patient care. In our community health initiatives, I have often found myself navigating complex social issues. For instance, during our outreach program to educate the community about diabetes management, I noticed that many attendees were hesitant to engage due to language barriers and cultural differences. To address this challenge, I organized a series of workshops in collaboration with local community leaders who spoke the native languages and understood the cultural nuances. By involving them, we were able to create a more inclusive and approachable environment. This decision not only increased participation but also fostered trust and collaboration within the community.
In both these scenarios, my ability to sift through information, consider various approaches, and make informed decisions played a crucial role in achieving positive outcomes. As an LPN, I have learned that problem-solving and decision-making are not just skills but essential components of providing compassionate and effective care. Each decision I make is driven by a commitment to improve the lives of those I serve, whether it’s in a clinical setting or within the broader community.
Evidence to Support Problem Solving and Decision Making
4.1 Complete Point of Care Risk Assessment
4.2 Overdose Prevention
4.3 Harm Reduction 101 Understanding Harm Reduction Principles and Practices
Numeracy
As an LPN, my daily responsibilities extend far beyond patient care and delve into realms that require a solid grasp of mathematical skills. The ability to work with numbers is a critical aspect of ensuring that our healthcare facility operates smoothly and efficiently. Each day, I find myself handling tasks that range from calculating and managing precise medication dosages to contributing to budget forecasting and financial planning for the clinic. My role often involves navigating numerical data with pinpoint accuracy and precision, as even the smallest miscalculation can have significant consequences. Whether it’s converting medication units, determining infusion rates, or analyzing patient data, my mathematical skills are put to the test regularly. Moreover, I actively participate in creating and monitoring budgets, projecting expenses, and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet the needs of our patients. This dual focus on both patient care and numerical proficiency underscores the importance of being adept with numbers in the healthcare field. By honing these skills, I can provide high-quality care while also contributing to the overall financial health and sustainability of our healthcare facility.
One of the main parts of my job involves figuring out and giving out the right medication dosages. This is super important for patient care since everyone has different needs, and getting the dosage right relies on things like age, weight, and health conditions. For instance, when I worked at a pediatric clinic, I regularly had to tweak medication amounts for kids, making sure they got just the right dose based on their age and weight. It took a solid understanding of math—like converting units, calculating ratios, and working with percentages—to make those calculations. Every single one needed to be spot-on because even a tiny mistake could seriously affect a patient’s health. My focus on detail and accuracy in these calculations really made a difference in keeping patients safe and ensuring their treatment worked. Furthermore, my math skills come in handy beyond just patient care. I’ve also been involved in planning the clinic’s budget and estimating expenses. This part of my job requires looking at financial data, predicting future costs, and creating detailed budget plans. By analyzing past numbers and figuring out future expenses, I help make sure that our resources are used wisely, which supports the clinic’s finances and our ability to provide quality care. Being part of the financial planning has helped me understand the bigger picture of how healthcare operations run, showing me just how important math skills are in my role as an LPN.
As part of the administrative team, I collaborate with other healthcare professionals to plan and allocate resources effectively. For instance, we recently undertook a project to expand our clinic’s services, which required a thorough analysis of projected costs and potential revenue. By examining past financial data, estimating future expenses, and creating detailed budget plans, we were able to make informed decisions that ensured the financial stability and growth of our clinic. Moreover, my role extends to managing inventory and supplies. Keeping track of medical supplies, equipment, and medications requires accurate record-keeping and periodic auditing. I utilize spreadsheets and inventory management software to monitor stock levels, anticipate shortages, and reorder supplies promptly. This proactive approach helps prevent disruptions in patient care and ensures that our clinic remains well-equipped to handle various medical scenarios.
In a community setting, I have also participated in health education initiatives that involve data collection and analysis. For example, during nursing school, I completed a local research project where I gathered information about local health trends and needs. Analyzing this data allowed me to identify areas where additional resources and education were needed, and how we could potentially use this to tailor our programs to better serve the community. I think this helps to demonstrate the vital role that mathematical skills play in healthcare. Whether it’s calculating medication dosages, managing budgets, or analyzing data, I think my ability to work with numbers helps to enhance the quality of care I provide for my patients and how I can contribute to the overall success of our healthcare team.
Evidence Supporting Numeracy
5.1 Intro to the Transfusion Administration Record
5.2 Biological Agents 2
5.3 Insulin Safety Competency
5.4 Medication Reconciliation
5.5 Medication Management
Critical And Creative Thinking
In my journey as an LPN, I have come to realize that the ability to think broadly and deeply is an invaluable skill. It’s not just about providing care; it’s about approaching each situation with reason, logic, imagination, and innovation. These qualities enable me to imagine possibilities, consider alternatives, separate fact from value, and remain open to new ways of thinking.
One of the most profound experiences that truly highlighted the importance of these skills happened during a particularly challenging shift that will forever remain etched in my memory. I was caring for an elderly Indigenous patient who had multiple chronic conditions, and out of nowhere, her health took a sudden and alarming turn for the worse. It was one of those moments where the usual, conventional treatments we rely on just weren’t making a difference, and time felt like it was slipping through my fingers. I remember feeling a mix of urgency and determination as I stood by her side, knowing that I needed to think outside the box to find a way to improve her condition, but I also wanted to keep in mind her cultural background and what she may prefer when it comes to her treatment options. It wasn’t just about following protocols; it was about using every bit of creativity, logic, and innovative thinking I had to come up with a solution. I started considering alternative approaches, looking into complementary therapies, and brainstorming with my colleagues. It was a race against time, but through this experience, I learned the true value of being able to think broadly and deeply. That moment taught me that sometimes, the best solutions come from stepping away from the traditional path and exploring new, uncharted territories.
I began by thoroughly assessing her medical history and current symptoms, applying reason and logic to piece together a comprehensive understanding of her situation. However, I knew that strictly following protocols wouldn’t be enough. This is where imagination and innovation came into play. I started considering alternative approaches, such as integrating complementary therapies like physical therapy and dietary adjustments alongside her prescribed medications. I discussed these ideas with the healthcare team, and we collectively decided to implement a holistic care plan. Over time, my patient’s condition improved significantly, and she expressed her gratitude for the tailored approach we took. This experience underscored the importance of thinking broadly and deeply, combining reason, logic, and imagination to find innovative solutions.
Another aspect of my role as an LPN involves community health initiatives. During one such initiative, we aimed to raise awareness about COVID-19. I did this by gathering information for my patients that was given to us through Interior Health officials and presenting them to each patient who came onto our unit. While going over this information, I realized that I would be relaying this information to a diverse population, which meant I needed to think of broad ways I could convey the message I was trying to get across to my patients. I collaborated with our in-house Indigenous Navigator to help aid me in ways I can present this information that is inclusive and mindful of different ways people may perceive this information. I also connected with my educational advisor on my unit to help come up with ideas to make this information visually appealing as well. This approach not only helped me to capture my patients’ attention, but it also made the information that was presented more relatable to them. The success of this initiative demonstrated how open-mindedness and creative thinking could lead to meaningful and impactful outcomes.
Another way I have used creative thinking in my life is through my artwork, which has been an integral part of who I am for as long as I can remember. Drawing and creating art have always been a source of joy and inspiration for me, offering a way to express myself and interpret the world around me. It’s more than just a hobby—art is a therapeutic outlet that helps me unwind and reconnect with myself after long, challenging days of studying. I particularly enjoy drawing freehand using black ink fine-tip markers in my sketchbook, as the precision and control they offer to suit my artistic style perfectly. My subjects often reflect my interests and passions. I love sketching animals, capturing their unique features and expressions, and recreating landscapes that remind me of some of my favourite places I’ve visited, as well as imagining new, whimsical sceneries that stretch the boundaries of my creativity. Sometimes, I challenge myself to create purely from imagination, letting random ideas evolve into intricate designs that showcase my artistic skills. Art, for me, is not just an activity—it’s a way to embrace creativity, relax my mind, and continually push the limits of my imagination. This is shown in my evidence as 6.5 Art work.
In conclusion, my journey as an LPN has been a testament to the power of thinking broadly and deeply with reason, logic, imagination, and innovation. These skills have enabled me to imagine possibilities, consider alternatives, and remain open to new ways of thinking. By embracing these qualities, I have been able to provide holistic and compassionate care, contribute to community health, and continuously grow as a healthcare professional.
Evidence Supporting Critical and Creative Thinking
6.1 Aboriginal Cultural Safety
6.2 The Aboriginal Landscape
6.3 Differing Perspectives on Health and Wellness Through a Cultural Lens
6.4 Colonization as a Social Determinant of Health
6.5 Art Work
Independent Learning and Intellectual Maturity
My journey as a nurse has been shaped by an unwavering pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. I have always believed that learning is a lifelong endeavour, and this was the main reason why I wanted to become a nurse, as your career is filled with constant learning opportunities. Whether it’s enrolling in courses through Interior Health or engaging in self-study and reading projects, I am constantly looking for ways to expand my skill set and stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare. This is also the main reason I chose to come back to school to complete a bachelor’s in health sciences and to hopefully continue my studies in Physiotherapy.
One of the most impactful learning experiences for me was shadowing one of the hospital’s wound care nurses. This hands-on experience provided me with not only practical skills but also inspired me to delve deeper into the subject through additional research and self-study. I took the initiative to complete an online course on wound management, which further enhanced my understanding and allowed me to provide better care to my patients. This experience taught me the importance of taking control of my education and seeking out opportunities that align with my professional goals. Beyond professional development, I believe that personal growth is equally important. This belief has driven me to explore and engage in a variety of activities and endeavours that enrich my inner and outer worlds. My curiosity about the world has led me to constantly seek new experiences and knowledge, broadening my horizons and deepening my understanding of myself and others.
For instance, I have taken up yoga and meditation to help not only improve my mental well-being but also to aid me in being more mindful in my everyday life. This has become an integral part of my daily routine, helping me manage stress and maintain a sense of balance in my life. In addition to yoga and meditation, I have also pursued interests such as reading, journaling, and engaging in creative hobbies like painting and drawing. These activities have provided me with a sense of fulfillment and joy, allowing me to express myself and explore my passions. They have also offered opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth, enabling me to gain insights into my thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
Reflecting on my personal growth and challenges is another important part of my journey. It is through reflection that I have come to understand the transformative power of learning and self-improvement. Throughout my career, I have faced several obstacles, both professionally and personally, but I have always tried my best to learn from these experiences in the most constructive ways possible. One challenge that stands out is when I had to handle a particularly difficult patient who was resistant to treatment. This situation was incredibly demanding and tested my patience, communication skills, and resilience. The patient was in severe pain and understandably frustrated, which made it difficult for them to trust the treatment plan. Despite the initial setbacks and resistance, I knew that I needed to approach the situation with empathy and a willingness to listen. By reflecting on this experience, I realized the importance of empathy and active listening in patient care. I learned that sometimes, what a patient needs most is someone who genuinely understands their fears and concerns. By taking the time to listen and validate the patient’s feelings, I was able to build a rapport and create a sense of trust. This approach allowed me to communicate more effectively and eventually gain the patient’s cooperation.
Approaching such situations with a calm and understanding demeanour was crucial. I found that remaining composed and patient helped de-escalate the tension and fostered a more positive and collaborative environment. It also allowed me to think more clearly and come up with creative solutions to address the patient’s needs. Ultimately, this experience led to a positive outcome for the patient, as they began to respond well to the treatment and showed significant improvement. This challenge taught me invaluable lessons about the power of empathy and the importance of considering others’ points of view. It reinforced the idea that personal growth often comes from the most challenging situations and that every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and develop. By embracing these experiences and reflecting on them, I have become a more compassionate and effective healthcare professional, better equipped to handle the complexities of patient care.
Considering others’ points of view is another aspect of personal development that I value greatly. Working in healthcare means collaborating with a diverse team of professionals and interacting with patients from various backgrounds. I have learned to appreciate different perspectives and incorporate them into my practice. For example, during a team meeting, I listened to my colleagues’ suggestions for improving patient care processes and actively tried to make a point of acknowledging their viewpoints. Overall, my commitment to personal growth has been a continuous journey of self-discovery and development. By engaging in activities that nurture my inner and outer worlds, I have become a more well-rounded and resilient individual. This personal growth has not only enhanced my professional capabilities but has also enriched my life in countless ways, allowing me to contribute more meaningfully to the well-being of my patients and the broader community.
Evidence to Support Independent Learning and Intellectual Maturity
7.1 Scope of Practice for Nurses in Wound Care
7.2 How Wounds Heal
7.3 Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
7.4 Care of Wounds with Non-Visible Wound Bed
7.5 Occupational Health and Safety Training
Applied Knowledge and Skills
From the moment I entered the nursing profession, I understood the importance of continuously expanding my expertise to provide the best possible care to my patients. This dedication has driven me to seek out opportunities for professional development, engage in lifelong learning, and embrace a holistic approach to my practice. Throughout my career, I have actively pursued additional training and certifications, which have equipped me with a deep understanding of various medical procedures, patient care techniques, and best practices in healthcare. However, my growth as an LPN extends far beyond the clinical setting. I firmly believe that the competencies I have gained and applied reflect my diverse interests, hobbies, and community involvement.
For instance, about five or so years ago I was diagnosed with celiac disease, which required me to go completely gluten-free from then on. With that as well as my interest in healthy living, it inspired me to educate myself on the latest dietary guidelines as well as other ways we can nourish our bodies through our eating habits. With this information, I now get to share it with my patients in hopes that it aids them in making more informed decisions when it comes to their eating habits and overall health. Ultimately, my journey as a nurse is greatly characterized by a continuous quest for knowledge, personal growth, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. One skill I have honed in on is my ability to provide compassionate and thoughtful care to patients who suffer from chronic illnesses. This level of competency was developed through my work with patients who have ailments like diabetes, hypertension, and other long-term illnesses. I have completed additional training and certifications, which have helped equip me with the knowledge to educate patients on managing their conditions and adhering better to their treatment plans. This knowledge has not only made me a better nurse, but it has also helped me to make healthier life choices when it comes to my personal life.
Outside of my professional responsibilities, I am deeply passionate about mental health advocacy as I have struggled with mental health issues in my life that at one point were sadly not well managed. Thankfully, through self-study and participating in therapy, I have been able to find a light at the end of the tunnel. Through this work, I have developed strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of the importance of empathy and active listening. These skills have translated seamlessly into my nursing practice, allowing me to connect with patients on a deeper level and find a better stream in navigating a nurse-to-patient relationship. In addition to this, I have pursued various hobbies that contribute to my personal and professional growth. One such hobby is gardening. I find that tending to my garden provides me with a sense of peace and accomplishment, and it has taught me valuable lessons about patience, nurturing, and the cycle of life. Interestingly, I have been able to incorporate my love for gardening into my nursing practice. I once helped to initiate a therapeutic gardening program at the long-term care facility where I worked, which provided residents with a meaningful and enjoyable activity that promoted physical and mental well-being.
Another interest that has enriched my life is cooking. I am particularly interested in nutrition and how it can impact your health. Over the years, I have met with and worked alongside multiple dieticians and nutritionists, which ultimately enabled me to have a better grasp on the relationship between food and our overall well-being as humans. This knowledge has proven invaluable in my role as an LPN, as I can offer patients practical advice on healthy eating and meal planning. Whether it’s helping a diabetic patient understand the importance of balanced carbohydrates or guiding a heart disease patient on reducing sodium intake, I can provide tailored recommendations that align with their health goals. Reflecting on my life experiences, I recognize that each challenge and opportunity has contributed to my growth as a healthcare professional and as an individual. From managing complex patient cases to advocating for mental health, and from nurturing a garden to exploring culinary arts, each experience has provided me with specialized skills and knowledge that enhance my ability to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.
Evidence to Support Applied Knowledge and Skills
8.1 Specialty Slings
8.2 CPI Blue Card
8.3 Mental Health 101
8.4 Infusion Therapy Self-Study
8.5 Adult Peripheral IV Insertion