I have gained valuable skills and knowledge from clinical this past semester. I will carry this with me throughout the rest of my student nursing career and beyond as an RN. Therapeutic Communication, in particular, has taught me a lot of helpful techniques, tips, and methods in order to achieve effective communication with patients and families. I was very nervous during my very first clinical. Everything was so new to me and I did not know what to expect. I was dedicated to spending additional time interfacing with patients and families in order to improve on my communication skills. After several clinical visits, I am far more confident in my care as a student nurse. I have learned how important nonverbal communication is and how it says a lot about someone. By learning certain techniques in class, I was able to apply this knowledge when taking care of patients. For example, I have personally worked on exhibiting an open, friendly body position and maintaining eye contact and actively listen. This has allowed myself to develop an open, trusting relationship with my patients.
In regard to my future practice as an RN, I hope to continue to grow in my communication skills. I have learned a lot of phrases that can be used when asked difficult questions and/or concerns. With more experience and practice, these phrases will come more naturally. I want to become more confident in my communication with patients and families. At times, I do not know what to say to a patient and/or family member on the spot. This can be very challenging and I need to make sure I educate myself as much as I can in order to grow into a quality care provider. For example, I had a patient who was feeling hopeless and voiced to me that he was dying. I replied with, “I want you to know that I am here for you and your care team is doing all they can to ensure that you get better.” After some reflection, I realized that I probably could have said something different. I should have acknowledged his feeling of fear first and then provided comfort. I realize that these skills will come with time and I need to be patient. I am looking forward to gaining more experience in order to grow into a respected RN.