Apprentice Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 27/10/2024

Learning Time: 7:45 – 14:00

Title of Learning: Ward Handover

During the ward handover last Sunday, i noticed a significant staffing issue. we had a very few permanent staff on the floor, with most HCA being new agency workers who were unfamiliar with the ward. this left only myself and one other permanent HCA who knew the routines and patient needs. as a result, we faced several challenges in delivering smooth and effective care, especially with the added pressure of orienting the agency staff.

the lack of familiar staff created gaps in communication and teamwork, as agency staff often needed guidance on task and procedures specific to the ward. this slowed down our ability to provide timely care and increased the workload for the 2 of us who were familiar with the setting. additionally, it raised concerns about patient safety, as temporary staff might not fully understand the patients individual needs and the wards specific routines. this highlighted the importance of a well structured handover and the impact of staff shortages on patient care.

i see the need for strategies to improve handover processes where there are high numbers of agency staff on duty. creating simple briefing sheet with essential ward routines and key patient information to help agency staff orient themselves quickly. better communication with management about the challenges faced  with limited permanent staff may help address these issues.as a trainee nursing associate, i fell this experience has strengthened my understanding of the importance of continuity and teamwork in patient care.  and it motivates me to support and guide new or temporary colleagues effectively.

Knowledge

K 1-8, 12, 20, 26, 30, 33-34, 36, 41

Skills

S 1,4

behaviour

B 1-4

Apprentice Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 23/10/2024

Time 9:30 – 16:30

Title of learning: Endocrine System

In our lesson last Wednesday on the endocrine system, i gained understanding of how hormones play a crucial role in maintaining balance within the body. as a trainee nursing associate, i found it enlightening to see how this complex system of glands works together to regulate essential processes like growth, metabolism, and mood. the endocrine system operates through glands that release hormones directly in the bloodstream, allowing these chemical messengers to travel throughout the body and affects various organs.

one area that particularly stood out to me was the role of specific glands, such as the pancreas, in controlling blood sugar levels through the hormone insulin. understanding how an imbalance in insulin can lead to diabetes emphasised the importance of monitoring these hormone levels. it became clear to me that, as a future nursing associate, i will need to recognise symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances and understand the impact these have on patients health. this knowledge is specially relevant when caring for patients with conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorder.

reflecting on this lesson, i appreciate the value of learning about the endocrine system in my training. its easy to overlook how many systems work quietly in the background to maintain health, yet they are essential to our well being. for me, understanding the endocrine system helps build a more holistic view of the body, emphasising how interconnected the part is.  this insight is important for recognising potential issues in patients and identifying when a hormonal imbalance might require attention.

this lesson strengthened my confidence in  recognising and responding to endocrine  related health issues as part of my role. as a trainee nursing associate, i feel better prepared to support patients with a deeper awareness of their underlying health needs. this knowledge will enable me to provide better, more informed care, ensuring that i can assist in delivering the balanced, patient centred approach expected in nursing.

Knowledge

K 1-8, 12 ,20, 26, 30, 33, 34, 36, 41

Skill

S 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3

Learning Apprentice Log

Learning log

Date:22/10/2024

Time: 9:00-17:00

Title of Learning: Observing Medication Administration.

last Tuesday i had an opportunity to observe a Registered Nurse administering medication to patients. this experience highlighted the importance of high quality of care in the nursing role, particularly when it comes to ensuring patient safety.

The RN followed a systematic process, checking medication against the patient chart, verifying the dosage, and ensuring the right patient received the right drug. it was clear that attention to detail is critical in the task, as any mistakes could have serious consequences. i was struck by the RN’s calm demeanor and ability to reassure the patients, the ability to reassure the patients, explaining the medication and addressing any concerns they had. this approach not only helped maintain patient trust but also enhanced the relationship.

what stood out to me was the RN’s adherence to the 5 rights of medication administration – Right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time. this reinforced the importance of protocol and patient- centered care in nursing practice.

in reflecting on this experience, i realised how crucial it is to balance a clinical accuracy with compassion. as a nursing associate in training, i aim to develop these skills further, ensuring that when i administer medication, i do so both technical proficiency and humane touch.

this reflection links both my clinical learning and personal aspect of patient care.

Knowledge

K 1-8, 12, 20,26,30,33-34,36, 41

Skills

S 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprentice learning log

Learning log

Date: 20/10/24

Time: 7:45 – 13:30

Title of Learning: Ward Handover

This morning handover, an issue was raised regarding a patient’s conveen frequently coming off when they sit in a chair. this has been on going problem, causing discomfort for the patient and concerns about hygiene and skin integrity. as a nursing associate student ,i was tasked with understanding the underlying cause and working with the team to find solution.

the issue highlighted the importance of proper device and patient positioning. if the conveen continues to slip, it could lead to increased risk of infection or skin breakdown. we realized the need of continues monitoring and ensuring they are securely applied. it also emphasizes communication and teamwork, as it was important for the staff to relay this information  during the handover and consider multiple factors like mobility and chair positioning.

moving forward we will ensure to double check the application of the conveen when assisting patients, especially when they are being moved or seated or transfer to bed using hoist. we will also communicate any concerns to the senior staff to prevent further complications. as nursing associate student, i will seek guidance  on best practice for device management and consider  other solution if needed, such as adjusting the type of adhesive used or other type of conveen.

Knowledge

K 1-8, 12, 20,26,30,33,34,36,41

Skills

S 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprentice Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 19/10/24

Time of Learning: 7:45 to 13:30

Title of Learning: Ward Handover

This morning during hand over, as trainee nursing associate we received a report on a number of patients, each with different issue involved a patient with fragile skin, prone to redness and potential breakdown. through out my morning shift, i noted that the patient had developed slight redness on their sacral area, indicating the early stages of pressure damage. this was brought to the attention of the nurse in charge and an air mattress was arranged to alleviate pressure. we continue to monitor the skin, repositioning the patient regularly.

in the afternoon during the second handover it was reported that another patient had developed a minor wound on their heel, which was also reported and documented for further treatment and dressing changes.

the development of redness and broken skin in patients is a crucial issue because it can lead to pressure ulcers if not treat properly. this experience reminded me of the importance of regularly assessing skin integrity, especially for patients who are immobile. by identifying skin changes early, we can prevent further deterioration, ensuring better outcomes for the patient. reporting during hand over allows the entire team to stay informed, ensuring continuous care and reducing the risk of complications.

to make progress, i will continue to closely monitor patients for early signs of skin damage and maintain clear documentation. and to ensure that all preventive measures, such as regular repositioning, skin assessments, and appropriate use of support surfaces, are in place. and working closely with the tissue viability nurse to improve patient outcomes. this will help ensure that patient are receiving the best care to prevent skin breakdown.

Knowledge

K 1-8, 12,20,26,30,33,34,36,41

Skills 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprentice Learning Log

Learning Log

Date:14/10/24

Time: 9:00 – 11:00

Title of Learning: Observation of Tracheostomy Change

During my time on the ward, i had the opportunity to observe 2 registered nurses performing a tracheostomy change.it was a valuable learning experience, as i had previously studied the procedure but had never seen it done in person. the nurses demonstrated a calm approach ensuring all the necessary equipment was prepared before starting. they explained the process clearly and checked that the patient was comfortable and stable, which help reduce any anxiety the patient might have been feeling.

as the procedure progressed, i noticed how important teamwork and communication were between the 2 RNs. they worked together smoothly, with one nurse maintaining the patient’s airway and the other carefully replacing the tracheostomy tube. the nurses also took the time to explain each step to me, which help me understand the importance of infection control during the procedure. their attention to detail, such as maintaining a sterile environment, highlighted the importance of following proper techniques to avoid complications.

this experience taught me the importance of confidence, skill, and effective teamwork in nursing. observing the tracheostomy change gave me a better understanding of the  procedure and its potential challenges.it also reminded me of the importance of clear communication with both patients and colleagues to ensure safe and effective care. this will help me in future situations where i might be involved in similar procedure as i continue my training as nursing associate student.

Knowledge

K 1-20, 24,30, 33, 36, 39-41

Skill

S 1-7, 13, 16, 35

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprentice Learning Log

Learning Log

Date:13/10/24

Time: 18:00 – 21:00

Title of Learning: Special Senses

As a nursing associate student, learning about the special senses has deepened my understanding of how the body interacts with its surrounding. the special senses include vision, hearing, taste, smell, and balance. each sense plays a vital role in how we perceive the world for example, the eyes allow us to see, the ears help us hear and our sense of smell is closely linked to taste. knowing how this senses work gives me a better understanding of patients may experience the world. especially when one or more senses are affected.

theses senses are connected to the nervous system, for example the eyes and ears send signals to the brain through specific pathways allowing us to know what we see and hear. as a nursing associate student, it is important for me to understand these connections especially when caring for patients with sensory impairments like loss of vision or hearing difficulties. being able to explain these changes to patients or recognizing early signs of sensory problems will help me provide better care and support.

studying the special senses has highlighted the importance of these systems in maintaining a person’s quality of life. i will apply this knowledge to help patients manage and adapt to any changes in their senses, ensuring they receive the quality of care and assistance in maintaining their independence.

Knowledge

K 1-20, 24, 30, 33,  36, 39-41, 43

Skill

S 1, 5, 7-9 ,13-16, 35

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprenticeship Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 11/10/24

Time: 1500 – 1900

Title of Learning: Anatomy and Physiology of Nervous System

Yesterday  i read about  anatomy and physiology of Nervous System as a nursing associate student, learning about the nervous system has given me a deeper understanding of how the body communicate and functions. the nervous system is divided into the central nervous system CNS and the peripheral nervous system PNS. the CNS is made up of the brain and spinal cord, control our thoughts, movements, and sensations, while the PNS connects the rest of the body to the CNS. understanding this division and how signals travel through neurons has given me a clear picture of how essential the nervous system is in maintaining overall health.

What caught my attention is how the nervous system reacts to external stimuli and controls the body responses, for example, reflex actions, voluntary movements are coordinated through electrical impulses transmitted between neurons. as a nursing associate student, i realized how important is it to understand these processes, especially when assessing patient with conditions like stroke, spinal cord injuries. this knowledge help me recognize signs and symptoms early, providing better care for patients who need neurological support.

in my reading and learning yesterday about the nervous system has highlighted its role in both everyday functions and complex medical conditions. as i continue my studies, i will apply this knowledge in my practical work, making sure i approach patient care with strong understanding of the body communicates and control itself. this will be important when monitoring patients with neurological disorders or assisting in their rehabilitation.

Knowledge

K 1-20,24,30,33,36,39-41,43

Skills

S 1-4,7-9, 13-16

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprenticeship Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 03/10/24

Time of Learning: 7:45-20:00

Title Of Learning: Ward Handover

During our ward handover this morning we focused on the best interests of our patients, especially those with scheduled appointments for physiotherapy and speech and language therapy. as a nursing associate trainee. i played a role in ensuring that these patients were prioritized so they could attend their appointment in time.

we discussed how important it is for patients to be prepared for their therapies, which included making sure they were comfortable, up in chair, and ready to go. by doing this, we avoided delays or missed appointments, which could affect their recovery.

as a nursing associate trainee, this experienced showed me the importance of clear communication and teamwork during handovers. it also emphasized how prioritizing patient care and being organized can support their well-being and promote a smoother recovery process.

Knowledge

K 1-8,12, 20,26, 30, 33, 34, 36, 41

Skill

S 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3

Apprenticeship Learning Log

Learning Log

Date: 22/10/24

Time of Learning: 9:30 – 16:30

Title of Learning: Personal Care and Moving and Handling

As nursing associate student part of my learning practical lesson on personal care and moving and handling was an important experience. we learned how to assist patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and hygiene, ensuring their dignity and comfort are maintained at all times. this reminded me of the importance of empathy and respect when dealing with vulnerable individuals who rely on us for their personal care.

in our moving handling session, we practiced safe techniques for transferring patients, using equipment such as hoist and slide sheets. this is critical not only for the safety of the patient but also for preventing injury to ourselves as healthcare workers. the session emphasized the correct posture, body mechanics, and communication with the patient, which helps build trust and makes the process easier.

this practical experienced boosted my confidence in providing safe and effective care. we understand that these skills are fundamental to my role and will help me offer better support to patients in maintaining their quality of life.

Knowledge

K 1 – 8, 12,20,26,30,33,34,36,41

Skills

S 1-4

Behaviour

B 1-3