A Reflection on Communication, Infection Control and Safety Techniques
Communication
I had an interactive communication with the patient creating a more comfortable environment for the client. Embracing therapeutic communication with the client enabled me to get sufficient patient history information which formed the baseline for the care plan. I applied active listening to effectively hear and comprehend the clients’ words. I also paid attention to some of the non-verbal cues expressed by the patient and related them to the situation. I applied silence of short duration to assure my client and responded appropriately to maintain the relationship. I also focused on the patient and the assessment with occasional reassurance of the patient with a gentle tap.
Infection Control
I maintained high level of hygiene when attending to the patient. I practiced proper handwashing before and after attending to the patient. I also checked and ensured a general hygiene in the patient’s room. I cleaned the surfaces using alcohol solution. I also appropriately applied personal protective equipment by putting the masks when performing detailed physical assessment of the patient. I maintained proper waste disposal as well. I applied proper spill management for any spills encountered in the process of patient assessment and care.
Safety
I helped the patient to ambulate at all times. Before commencing ambulation process, I performed patient risk assessment to determine how much assistance would be required. I helped the patient to move around comfortably while being keen on any closer obstructions. I ensured the patient was slowly put to a sitting position while keenly observing physical changes such as dizziness. I checked and ensured that the bed rails were in place and in right condition for use by the patient. I advised the patient to wear non-skid shoes for his safety and effective transition to gaining his mobility strength.
References
Doenges, M. E., Moorhouse, M. F., & Murr, A. C. (2016). Nursing diagnosis manual: Planning, individualizing, and documenting client care. FA Davis.
Potter, P. A., Perry, A. G., Stockert, P., & Hall, A. (2016). Fundamentals of Nursing-E-Book. Elsevier health sciences.
Santana, R. F., & de Oliveira Lopes, M. V. (2015). Measures of clinical accuracy and indicators of the nursing diagnosis of delayed surgical recovery. Collegian, 22(3), 275-282.