Clinical Reflective Essay

My goals for my second clinical were to know how to read electrocardiogram strips and to take more opportunities to talk with my patient. During clinical I learned that my patient had a history of Atrial Fibrillation and Rapid Ventricular Response. In my mind I attempted to picture how those dysrhythmias differ from the normal sinus rhythm. My patient also had family present to offer him support.

I meet my goals though asking questions to my patient and his partner throughout the shift. I learned about my patient’s family dynamic during discussions about whom he considered family. He told me that he and his partner have been in a relationship for over twenty years. I gathered that his partner was supportive during this hospitalization. She said she stays with him and is present everyday. My clinical instructor review cardiac strips with my group at clinical. Each time I look at a cardiac strip it becomes slightly more clear. I know that Atrial Fibrillation strips show irregularity and wavy P waves because the strong atrial kick becomes diminished when the atria are quivering and contracting consistently.

A new skill that I preformed was catheter insertion. My patient had urinary retention and several bladder scans through out the morning showed at least 300ml of fluid retained. After having an order for the 16 French Foley catheter, I inserted the indwelling catheter with the supervision and assistance from my nurse. The order called for the ballon to be inflated with 50 mls of Normal Saline to secure placement of the urinary catheter. Following the procedure 1,100ml of urinary output confirmed that the catheter was helping my