WOMENS HEALTH CLINICAL:
Journal Entry #2 (450–500 words):
In your journal entry, answer the following questions:
Learning and Experiences in WOMENS HEALTH:
Reflect on the 3 most challenging patient encounters and discuss what was most challenging for each.
- What did you learn from this experience?
- What resources did you have available?
- What evidence-based practice did you use for this patient?
- What new skills are you learning?
- What would you do differently?
- How are you managing patient flow and volume?
Communicating and Feedback
Ask yourself the following self-reflective questions:
- How might I improve on my skills and knowledge, and how do I communicate that back to my Preceptor?
- How am I doing? What is missing?
- What type of feedback am I receiving from my Preceptor?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In Women’s Health clinical, it is essential to evaluate patient encounters carefully and learn from each experience. As a medical professor, it is crucial to provide assignments that help students understand the challenging situations and learn from them. In this journal entry, students are required to discuss their three most challenging patient encounters, their learnings, and how they would manage patient flow and volume.
1. Reflect on the 3 most challenging patient encounters and discuss what was most challenging for each.
In my Women’s Health clinical, one of the most challenging patient encounters was when I had to attend a middle-aged woman who had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. The patient was devastated by the diagnosis, and she had a lot of questions about the treatment options available to her. The most challenging aspect of this encounter was breaking the news to her.
Another challenging patient encounter was when I had to consult a young woman who was experiencing severe menstrual cramps every month. The patient had tried several over-the-counter medications, but none of them seemed to be working. The most challenging aspect of this encounter was identifying the underlying cause of the patient’s menstrual cramps, which turned out to be endometriosis.
The last challenging patient encounter was when I had to attend a patient who was experiencing urinary incontinence. The most challenging aspect of this encounter was communicating with the patient who was hesitant to discuss this issue. It was challenging to reassure the patient that this was a common problem, and her condition could be managed effectively.
2. What did you learn from this experience?
From the first experience, I learned that it’s crucial to use empathy when breaking bad news to patients. It is always a challenging situation, and the patient’s emotional state should be taken into account. I learned that patients need emotional support, apart from medical care.
From the second experience, I learned the importance of communication with patients. It’s essential to have open, honest communication to identify the root cause of the problem accurately. I also learned the importance of staying updated on the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment options for different conditions.
From the third experience, I learned that addressing sensitive issues with patients requires patience and sensitivity. I realized that it’s essential to create a comfortable environment and reassure patients that they’re not alone in their suffering.
3. What resources did you have available?
During the difficult patient encounters, I had several resources available, including online medical databases, textbooks, and consultation with hospital staff, including my preceptor. I also had access to medical equipment and diagnostic tools to help diagnose and treat different conditions.
4. What evidence-based practice did you use for this patient?
I used evidence-based practices based on current research and clinical guidelines for each patient encounter. For example, for the patient with breast cancer, I used the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines to recommend appropriate treatment options. For the patient with menstrual cramps, I used the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines to recommend further diagnostic tests.
5. What new skills are you learning?
From the different patient encounters, I’m learning new skills, including developing empathy, being able to identify and manage sensitive issues, improving communication, and staying up to date with the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques.
6. What would you do differently?
After reflecting on these experiences, I would approach challenging situations with more sensitivity and empathy. I would take the time to understand each patient’s emotional state, needs, and concerns. I would also work on improving my communication skills to facilitate better patient-doctor engagement.
7. How are you managing patient flow and volume?
I’m managing patient flow and volume by using organizational skills and prioritizing tasks to ensure that patients are seen on time. I’m learning to handle multiple tasks while meeting current standards and providing the best care possible for each patient.
8. How might I improve on my skills and knowledge, and how do I communicate that back to my preceptor?
To improve my skills and knowledge, I plan to attend conferences and workshops related to Women’s Health. I’ll also consult with my preceptor regularly for advice and feedback in areas that need improvement. I’ll engage in self-reflection to identify areas where I can improve and communicate my progress and concerns to my preceptor.
