Date: 07/11/2024

Time:10pm – 02:00am

Title: Sensory Systems

Sensory systems are responsible for processing information from our environment, and they include five senses: sight, taste, smell, hearing, and balance. Each sense has specialised organs and neural pathways that work to interpret stimuli. For example, the visual system involves the eyes and optic nerves, translating light into images while the auditory system uses the ears to process sound waves.

As a student Nursing Associate, learning and understanding the sensory systems is important for providing holistic care and are vital for everyday functioning and their impairment can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Working with elderly patients, I may frequently encounter age related changes in sensory functions such as reduced taste perception or hearing loss, which can impact diet and social interaction. And so, recognising the early signs is very crucial.

In future, I will look out for patients who are at higher risk of sensory loss focusing on sensory assessments, so that adequate care can be given as soon as possible. I will also learn and practice effective strategies with patients who have sensory impairments, ensuring they feel understood and supported.

KSB addressed:

S7: Communicate effectively using a range of skills and strategies with colleagues and people at all stages of life and with a range of mental, physical, cognitive, and behavioural health challenges

S30: Recognise when a person’s condition has improved or deteriorated by undertaking health monitoring, interpreting, promptly responding, sharing findings, and escalating as needed

S39: Recognise when people need help to facilitate equitable access to care, support and escalate concerns appropriately