I also learned how diabetes affects wound healing—specifically, how poor circulation and reduced immune function can impair healing and increase infection risk. This session deepened my understanding of the physiological challenges that diabetic patients face. The student’s insight was valuable here as she shared with me that, prior to the session, she had engaged in self-directed learning, reading up on diabetes and wound care. I was impressed by her proactive approach, as she felt prepared with some theoretical knowledge. However, I quickly realized that while self-directed learning had provided her with a solid foundation, she needed more hands-on experience to develop her clinical skills and confidence.Furthermore, I gained confidence in supervising a junior student during clinical procedures, providing clear instructions and observing their practice. During the session, I made sure to involve the student in every step, such as preparing materials, explaining the rationale behind each action, and observing her as she applied a dressing. I also encouraged her to ask questions and reflect on her actions, which I believe helped her process the experience and solidify her learning.

This experience was pivotal in refining my approach to teaching and supervising in clinical settings. One of the key improvements I made was in structuring my teaching to be more interactive. Initially, I had relied heavily on theoretical teaching, particularly using my PowerPoint slides to guide the session. While this approach helped convey essential knowledge, I recognized that the student needed more opportunities for hands-on involvement to develop clinical competence.

For example, I actively involved the student in preparing the patient and setting up a sterile field, which gave her more ownership of the process. I also began to provide more targeted feedback throughout the session, rather than waiting until the end. This immediate feedback helped her refine her technique in real-time, such as adjusting the dressing application and ensuring the sterile technique was maintained. I identified areas for improvement, specifically in her technique for applying the dressing. I explained what needed to be changed and why, focusing on how she could improve next time. For instance, I suggested she pay closer attention to the edges of the wound to ensure the dressing adhered better, which would promote healing. Finally, we discussed how she would approach similar cases in the future, and we set an action plan for her to review additional wound care materials in her own time.

Select one or more themes: Prioritise people – Practise effectively – Preserve safety – Promote professionalism and trust

Practise Effectively: I demonstrated evidence-based techniques in wound care and infection prevention while guiding the junior student in applying these practices.

Preserve Safety: By upholding strict infection control measures and providing detailed supervision, I ensured the safety of the patient and the student.

Promote Professionalism and Trust: I acted as a role model for the junior student, demonstrating professionalism, critical thinking, and patient-centred care, while receiving feedback from my assessor to improve my teaching skills further.

Together, we outlined the objectives: to account for all critical equipment, ensure they were in the correct locations, and implement a system for regular checks. I created a checklist of essential equipment, including ECG machines, defibrillators, and other emergency tools, based on the ward’s needs and standard protocols. Inventory Creation: I conducted a physical walkthrough of the ward, noting down the current locations of all the equipment. This initial inventory helped me identify any discrepancies between where the equipment was supposed to be and where it was actually located. I recorded the details in a logbook, noting the condition of each item and any immediate issues, such as missing or malfunctioning equipment. Engaging the Team: I communicated the purpose of the audit to the ward staff, explaining how it would benefit patient safety and workflow efficiency. I encouraged them to share any concerns or suggestions about equipment management. With the support of my colleagues, we reorganized equipment to ensure everything was in its designated place, easily accessible during emergencies, and not obstructing pathways. Implementation of a Tracking System: I suggested a simple tracking system where staff would sign off on a checklist at the start of each shift, confirming the presence and condition of critical equipment. This system was designed to ensure ongoing accountability and prevent future lapses. Review and Feedback: After completing the audit, I reviewed the findings with my assessor. We discussed the next steps, including periodic reviews and potential improvements to the tracking system based on staff feedback. I documented the entire process, from the initial incident to the audit outcomes, in the patient safety and ward management record.

Select one or more themes: Prioritise people – Practise effectively – Preserve safety – Promote professionalism and trust

Practise Effectively:  By regularly checking in with staff and ensuring everyone was informed about the audit and its purpose, I minimized misunderstandings and fostered a cooperative environment. I worked closely with my assessor and the ward team, demonstrating effective collaboration and communication throughout the audit. Accurate and timely documentation of the audit process helped maintain a clear record of actions taken, supporting accountability and continuous improvement.

Preserve Safety: The audit directly contributed to a safer ward environment by ensuring that all necessary equipment was in place and functional, reducing the risk of delays in emergencies.

Promote Professionalism and Trust: Leading the audit with transparency and involving the team built trust among colleagues, reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility and professionalism in nursing practice. This reflection has been a pivotal moment in my journey as a nursing student, teaching me the importance of leadership, organization, and proactive problem-solving in delivering high-quality patient care.