During my placement at the gastric and surgical wards, I worked with healthcare professionals and took patient observations on blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and blood glucose levels. I have observed and participated in carrying out initial assessments for a new patient who was admitted to a ward such as MUST (weight and height), pressure area (shoulder, knees, ankles, heel, and spine) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) swaps. I am also supporting a patient with personal hygiene and repositioning to improve skin integrity. I have assisted a patient on a red tray to eat and drink. I learnt how to perform ECG as i have observed and participated in performing electrocardiograms (ECG) as well as observed patient blood transfusions, I am aware that staff has to be specially trained and would be signed by two staff.

I have a better understanding of how to access information about patients based on a need-to-know basis and am aware of seeking information from the ward manager, nurses and other health professionals when required. Before carrying out any nursing intervention, I gained consent from the patient. I communicate better with patient and work well as part of a team and listen intensively to instructions being given to me and work within my limitations.

I have learnt commonly used medication (paracetamol, insulin) as I observed and participated in the administration of medications (tablet, capsule, IV, injection). Other commonly used medications are dihydrocodeine for the treatment of moderate to severe pain mostly after operation or injury, Ramipril for the treatment of high blood pressure and metformin used for the treatment of diabetes. Some of the abbreviations used in the hospital are left BKA (below-knee amputation), ABX ( antibiotic), PMH (past medical history) and HTN ( hypertension)

I have learnt to carry out simple wound dressing as I have observed and participated in wound care with tissue viability nurse TVN (leg ulcer and surgical wound). Also aware of the wound dressing used in the ward ( Gelling fiber, inadine, absorb border, k-lite and k-soft). Also, I have observed doctors and other healthcare profession rounds discuss patient current condition and treatment options. I have learned how to insert a nasogastric tube (NG tube) as I observed the doctor and participated in removing it under supervision.

I have learnt to continue checking with doctors and other health professionals for changes to patient care and treatment. I have learnt how to do patient documentation as I have observed staff nurse.