My placement area is a neuro disability hospital which provides rehabilitation and long-term care to people with complex neurological disability caused by damage to the brain or other parts of the nervous system. Most of the patients have had traumatic injury to the brain and nervous system which have led to a variety of consequences depending on the severity and location of the injury. Most of the common outcomes included cognitive impairments, memory loss, changes in personality, motor skill deficit, and emotional challenges.
I gained knowledge into some of the complex conditions patients suffered from. Conditions included multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, epilepsy and seizures, and stroke. I understand that Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease which attacks the protective covering of the nerves fibre (myelitis) which leads to communication problems between patients brain and the rest of their body. Schizophrenia is characterised by emotional and cognitive symptoms which impact patients memory and executive functions. Stroke occurs when there is a disruption in blood supply to the brain either due to a blockage (ischaemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Epilepsy is characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain which affects cognitive function and overall quality of life.
I noticed most of these patients with brain injury had respiratory problems. This is due to the intricate connection between the brain and the respiratory system. Brain injuries affecting the central nervous system can disrupt the neural signals that coordinate breathing muscles which can result in irregular breathing patterns or difficulty in maintaining proper respiratory function. In such cases patients required respiratory support to maintain adequate oxygenation. Again, swallowing difficulties is common after certain types of brain injury, which leads to an increased risk of aspiration. Reduced mobility and impaired cough reflex, often associated with brain injuries increases the risk of developing pneumonia, and respiratory infection.
I acquired knowledge about the different medication types administered to patients with these conditions. I understand reason for administration of some particular drugs and the side effects they have on patients. The common medication used included antipsychotic medications, seizure medications like levitiracetam and clonazepam. Respiratory medications like carbocisteine, which helps loosen secretions was commonly used. Baclofen was a common medication administered and I understand it helps reduce pain of muscle spasm.
I gained in-depth knowledge in the management and care of Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). PEG is the only method used to provide medication and nutrition to the patients, as most of them had difficulty eating so were mostly NIL by mouth. I understand that PEG feeding is a vital means to ensure adequate nutrition and hydration to patients as it helps maintain their nutritional status while they work on rehabilitation and recovery. Patients received a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving neurologists, rehabilitation specialists and respiratory therapists. Their care involved ongoing assessments and early interventions in managing their respiratory problems associated with brain injuries.
Monitoring bowel movement especially for neuro-disability patients is crucial for their overall well being. Regular monitoring helps detect early signs of complications such as constipation, diarrhoea or bowel obstruction. Brain injury patients have increased risk of developing abdominal distension, which can lead to discomfort and pain. Constipation in brain injury patients may lead to retention which can be dangerous as it can lead to cardiac arrest. Severe constipation may trigger a vegal response to stimulate the vomit reflex, leading to vomiting. I understand vomiting is dangerous for brain injury patients as they have reduced consciousness levels and impaired swallowing reflexes which increases their risk of aspirating.
This was a different experience for me taking into account how specialised it is. The focus was mainly on patients with brain injuries. With other experiences, I have always had patients I could easily communicate with to understand their needs and feelings. With this new experience most of the patients were cognitively impaired and non-verbal. In my first week, I found it hard just watching them and giving them care. I tried my best to communicate as much as I could by speaking gently with reassurance. Most of these patients do not show awareness or responsiveness but I continued treating them with respect and dignity during any care intervention I provided for them. I spoke to them as if they can hear and understand me.
Skills
I have gained skills in monitoring vital signs in brain injury patients which is crucial for assessing their overall health and detecting potential complications. Changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature can indicate neurological distress or systemic issues. Timely identification of abnormalities in vital signs ensures prompt interventions, preventing further complications and optimising patients outcome. Most of the patients were always on oxygen saturation monitors to monitor their oxygen saturation levels. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels in brain injury patients is crucial because the brain requires a consistent and adequate supply of energy to function properly. Low oxygen levels (hypoxia) can worsen brain injury and hinder the healing process. I gain the skill of regularly monitoring patients oxygen levels, familiarising myself with their normal parameters so patients can receive appropriate interventions to maintain optimal oxygenation and support brain recovery.
I gained skills in the care of tracheostomy. Patients who had tracheostomy required daily care of their trachea’s. When giving care to tracheas, I ensure hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly before and after handling the tracheostomy site or equipment. I have gain skills in cleaning around the tracheostomy site using a saline solution and sterile gauze. I avoid irritation by being gentle all the time. I have gained skills in suctioning the tracheostomy tube to clear secretions and maintain airway patency. When cleaning around the tracheostomy or suctioning, I ensure the tracheostomy tube is securely in place with no sign of displacement. It is important to check tracheostomy site for any redness, swelling, or unusual discharge. Providing adequate humidification prevents tracheostomy tubes and airways from drying out. I have gained skills in regularly monitoring patients breathing pattern for any signs of respiratory distress.
I gained skills in caring for PEG sites as most of the patients were on PEG feed. I always washed my hand thoroughly before handling any PEG site. I clean around PEG site with a sterile gauze soaked in water and pat it dry with gauze. Whiles cleaning around site, I avoid rubbing or causing any irritation. I monitor for infections by keeping my eye out for any signs of redness, swelling or discharge. I gained in-depth skill in the administration of medication and nutritional requirements through the PEG.
Tracheostomy management and care involves intricate procedures so it is crucial for me to stay current with best practices, acquire relevant training and collaborate with multidisciplinary team to feel confident about the procedure and provide comprehensive care. I will regularly update my knowledge on PEG feeding guidelines and seek ongoing training to improve my skill acquired in this procedure.
Attitudes and values
In all care interventions, I practised patient-centred care by prioritising patients needs, preferences, and safety of patients receiving PEG administration and tracheostomy care. I demonstrated empathy and understanding towards patients undergoing these procedures recognising the potential emotional and physical challenges. I maintained high level of clinical competence during administration procedures, including knowledge of relevant equipment, and infection control practices. Patients safety was one of my top most priority. I ensured PEG tube was correctly in place and ensured to avoid complications during and after procedure.
I uphold professional standards in practice and during care interventions, including reliability, accountability, and maintaining confidentiality. I continuously kept myself informed about current evidence-based practices and advancement in tracheostomy care and PEG administration to provide the best possible care. These attitudes and values collectively contributed to me being able to deliver a holistic and patient-centred care.
Most of the patients were PDoC (Prolonged disorders of consciousness) and as such required specialised care. The patient care was provided in their best interest as they were unable to consent to care. I was compassionate in providing holistic care, and involved patients family in decision-making and care planning. I collaborated with colleagues to ensure comprehensive support for patients. I collaborated well with team members and always asked relevant questions when in doubt. I listened attentively to my experienced colleagues, seek professional feedback, considered their perspective, and used their feedback constructively.