Date of Learning: 07/03/2025
Time: 09:30-16:30
Title of learning activity: End Point Assessment Preparation

This marked the conclusion of my final session at the University, a significant milestone in my academic journey. During this session, we delved into the intricate details of the registration process for the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), an essential step towards my future professional practice.

I was fortunate to have a valuable one-on-one meeting with both of my dedicated academic assessors, Colin Rowe and Joicy George. In this personalised discussion, we thoroughly reviewed my academic progression, assessing not only my overall grades but also the skills I have developed throughout my studies. We addressed several important concerns, including the necessity of completing my theoretical hours to ensure they align with the program requirements. Additionally, we emphasised the importance of having the tripartite agreements properly signed, which play a crucial role in securing my eligibility for future placements and professional registration. Overall, this session was instrumental in ensuring that I am fully prepared for the next steps in my nursing career.

Date of Learning: 28/02/2025
Time: 09:30-16:30
Title of learning activity: End Point Assessment Preparation

In this learning activity, we discussed the preparation for the end point assessment, focusing on the NMC standards. I also received an explanation of the revalidation process, along with some tips and advice on how to complete it successfully. The tasks required for completion were outlined, and we talked about the transition from being a student to becoming a registered nursing associate.

The class session was very helpful for me as it provided a clear understanding of what to expect after completing the course. I gained insights into potential career opportunities and progression available upon finishing the program.

I was reminded of the importance of fulfilling all course requirements, including learning logs, theory hours, tripartite assessments, and other necessary tasks to achieve sign-off. Additionally, the declaration of good character form was introduced, with an explanation of its purpose and how it is essential for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Date of Learning Log: 17/01/2025

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity: Preparation for Practice

Clinical Skills:

1. Male and Female Catheterisation
2. Injection Technique
3. NG insertion
4. Basic Wound Management
5. Medications Administration
6. Wound Assessment- stage of wound healing, signs of infection and dressing selection.

Clinical skills refer to the competencies that healthcare professionals employ to evaluate patients, determine diagnoses, and provide clinical judgments. These actions are carried out directly by healthcare providers and can influence clinical outcomes, involving both cognitive skills such as clinical reasoning and decision-making. Additionally, non-technical abilities like teamwork and communication are also significant.

Male and female catheterisation involves the use of various types of catheters, though some are specifically designed for either males or females. The primary distinction between male and female catheters lies in their size, as female urethras are generally shorter than male urethras. A woman’s urethra typically measures about 3-4 cm, while a male urethra can be around 18-20 cm long. Due to these size differences, catheters for women usually range from 7-20 cm in length, while male catheters range from 30-40 cm in length. Common reasons for catheterization in both genders include urinary incontinence, a medical condition characterized by the loss of bladder control, which can lead to involuntary urination during activities like sneezing, lifting, exercising, or coughing. Urinary incontinence may also result from a sudden sense of urgency, a consistent flow or dribble of urine, or specific mental or cognitive disorders. Urinary retention is diagnosed when individuals do not fully empty their bladder during urination.

Injection techniques vary: Intravenous (IV) injections provide the quickest method to deliver medication straight into a vein; Intramuscular (IM) injections are administered deep into a muscle for rapid absorption; Subcutaneous (SC) injections are placed just beneath the skin; and Intradermal (ID) injections are applied to the upper skin layer.

NG insertion involves placing a slender plastic tube through a nostril, towards the esophagus, and into the stomach. This tube is used for delivering food and medication directly to the stomach or for collecting substances from it. The insertion begins at the nostril with the largest opening and the tube is guided down the back of the nostril to the nasopharynx. The patient is instructed to swallow as the tube advances into the pharynx.

Basic wound management principles include: achieving haemostasis, cleaning the wound, providing analgesia, closing the skin, and dressing the wound with subsequent advice.

To clean a wound, first ensure your hands are clean or wear a fresh pair of gloves. Rinse the wound with mildly soapy water and then clean it with fresh water. Additionally, cleanse the skin surrounding the wound. Gently pat the wound dry. The aim of wound management is to remove debris and avert infection, allowing the wound to heal through the formation of connective tissue for granulation, leading to repair. Epithelial tissue develops in a moist environment conducive to healing.

Medication administration consists of delivering a prescribed substance to patients for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of medical conditions. It is a crucial duty for nursing associates to verify all items on the medication list as accuracy is vital to prevent medication errors and ensure patient safety across all medications they are prescribed.

Examine the tissue for any indications of necrosis, infection, or granulation. Assess the discharge type and volume while also noting any odours. Measure the edges of the wound and check for any undermining or tunnelling. Utilize standardized tools such as the Wound Assessment Tool.

KSB ADDRESSED:

Knowledge:

Skills:

Behaviour:

Date of Learning Log: 10/01/2025

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity: Airway Management and Suctioning

Endotracheal suctioning entails the mechanical aspiration of pulmonary secretions from patients who have artificial airways. This procedure is necessary to ensure a clear airway, enhance oxygenation, stimulate coughing, and prevent infections to keep the airway open. Oral suctioning is crucial for removing secretions from the mouth in patients who lack the ability to swallow effectively or at all. When performing oral suctioning, it is essential to use a safe technique to avoid damaging the teeth and gums. Before conducting oral suctioning, you should prepare the necessary equipment and verify that it is fully charged. Set the required suction pressure, typically up to 115 mmHg for adults and 100 mmHg for children. It’s important to explain the procedure to the patient, position them upright, ensure adequate lighting, and wash your hands or don personal protective equipment (PPE). Check the suction pressure, avoid suctioning beyond the tonsils, and limit the duration to no more than 10 seconds. During suctioning, closely monitor the patient’s facial expressions and stop immediately if any signs of distress are observed. To enhance oxygenation and lessen the effort required for breathing, various techniques can be utilized, starting with Diaphragmatic Breathing, which is fundamental for healthy breathing that engages the diaphragm. Additionally, practicing Nose breathing instead of Mouth breathing—where air is inhaled through the nose and exhaled through the mouth—is beneficial, as the nasal passages filter, warm, and humidify the air.

Oral care constitutes a fundamental aspect of nursing care. It contributes to the patient’s quality of life and overall well-being. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Oral health is associated with overall health, enabling individuals to speak clearly, taste, chew, and smile effectively. Adopting proper oral habits can help preserve teeth for a lifetime.

To demonstrate safe oral suctioning techniques using a Yankauer suction device, it is crucial to assess the patient’s risk for aspiration and their ability to protect their own airway or adequately clear secretions, as failure to do so can result in upper airway obstruction. Inform the patient about how the procedure will assist in clearing secretions and that it will only take a few seconds. If appropriate, encourage the patient to cough if they have the reflex to do so. Verify the patient’s position, gather supplies, and don non-sterile gloves. If there is a risk of body fluid splash, apply a mask. Insert the Yankauer catheter and activate suction by covering the thumb hole.

The retention of airway mucus poses a significant challenge for postoperative and critically ill patients, as well as the caregivers tasked with managing it. Retained secretions can increase the work of breathing and lead to hypoxemia, atelectasis, and pneumonia. Atelectasis refers to a condition where the lungs partially or completely collapse. Mild cases generally do not exhibit signs or symptoms, but breathing difficulties may arise if the condition worsens. This condition can be extremely dangerous and life-threatening, requiring laboratory tests or imaging, and is treatable by medical professionals, potentially lasting several days or weeks.

KSB ADDRESSED:

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Skills:

Behaviour: