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What are some learning experiences of nurses?
Things that you had to learn through trial and error, things you were taught in the workplace and not school.
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7 answers
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Becky’s Answer
Hello Margaret,
Nursing school teaches the general information and skills that help one to apply it to multiple settings and situations. The specific skills are learned in the work setting. Early in my career, I learned to utilize ventilators, insert IV and manage IV hydration, administrate different medications, manage gastrostomy tubes and colostomy bags, and provide wound care. I also learned to utilize computers in patient care. The more I worked, the more my critical and abstract thinking evolved; I developed practical communication skills and the ability to interact with various personalities. I also learned to prioritize tasks, stay focused, and be grounded in an ever-changing environment.
Good luck!
Becky Rouhi, DNP
Nursing school teaches the general information and skills that help one to apply it to multiple settings and situations. The specific skills are learned in the work setting. Early in my career, I learned to utilize ventilators, insert IV and manage IV hydration, administrate different medications, manage gastrostomy tubes and colostomy bags, and provide wound care. I also learned to utilize computers in patient care. The more I worked, the more my critical and abstract thinking evolved; I developed practical communication skills and the ability to interact with various personalities. I also learned to prioritize tasks, stay focused, and be grounded in an ever-changing environment.
Good luck!
Becky Rouhi, DNP
Updated
Sabra’s Answer
For me I learned the true meaning of patience, unconditional love,and gratitude
To be open minded and kind
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Deborah’s Answer
High school classes such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and mathematics are crucial for building a strong scientific foundation necessary for nursing education. Courses in health sciences and medical terminology can provide valuable insight into the healthcare field. In college, additional classes in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, nutrition, and psychology are highly beneficial for preparing for nursing coursework. Furthermore, courses in communication and ethics help develop essential interpersonal skills vital for patient care and professional conduct in the healthcare environment.
Thank you so much! I've been wondering what to work on, so this was a big help.
Margaret
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Martin’s Answer
Nursing is an exciting journey of discovery, unfolding a new chapter of learning every day. It's a profession that paints a spectrum of emotions - from moments that light up your face with a smile, to instances that may bring a tear to your eye, and even times that make you question your decision to clock in that day. Nursing is a craft, a collection of skills that require practice to master. Be it initiating an IV or simply lending a patient or their family a listening ear, your reactions will be shaped by diverse experiences. Always bear in mind, you're part of a team, never alone. If you ever find yourself in unfamiliar territory, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a fellow nurse. They can explain, demonstrate, or assist in any way necessary. Remember, the key to learning is exposure and hands-on experience.
I am a treasure trove of countless stories, each unique in its own way, yet all sharing a common thread - they inspire you to come back the next day.
I am a treasure trove of countless stories, each unique in its own way, yet all sharing a common thread - they inspire you to come back the next day.
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Hailey’s Answer
While I learned a lot in nursing school, I’ve learned just as much on the job and from other nurses. I’ve learned to appreciate your CNAs and techs because you may not always have enough and you might have to do their job. I’ve learned the kind of nurse I want to be, as well as the kind I don’t want to be. I’ve learned how peaceful it can be when a suffering hospice patient finishes their race and is no longer suffering. I’ve learned how to respond to emergencies and how to triage my patients as well as my work day.
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Kimberly’s Answer
My nursing career has spanned almost three decades, a journey filled with rich experiences in various fields. These include Medical-Surgical, Labor and Delivery, Operating Room, Pre and Post Anesthesia, Home Health, Agency, Long Term Care/Geriatrics, Sub Acute, and School Nursing. From these diverse experiences, I've learned the critical importance of conducting a comprehensive head-to-toe assessment. Regardless of my assignment, the initial step is always a thorough assessment. Armed with the insights from a well-executed assessment, I then review the orders, recent lab results, and doctor's progress notes. Next, I examine the Medication Administration Record, which guides my patient care plan for the rest of my shift.
After earning my Bachelor's degree in Nursing, I truly began to appreciate the value of critical thinking. As nurses, we often play the role of detectives for our patients, piecing together the complete picture, identifying patterns, or uncovering missing links. Each day presents a fresh opportunity to learn and grow. In my career, I've always embraced each day with the anticipation of encountering something new and gaining new knowledge.
Furthermore, I want to emphasize the crucial role of self-care in our profession. As nurses, we are naturally inclined to give our all to our patients, forming the backbone of the healthcare workforce. However, it's vital that we don't neglect our own well-being. The threat of burnout is real among nurses, especially given the persistent nursing shortages we've faced for years. This often results in overtime work and sleep deprivation, pushing many nurses to leave their jobs. Advocating for ourselves is a key strategy to ensure a long, rewarding career in nursing.
After earning my Bachelor's degree in Nursing, I truly began to appreciate the value of critical thinking. As nurses, we often play the role of detectives for our patients, piecing together the complete picture, identifying patterns, or uncovering missing links. Each day presents a fresh opportunity to learn and grow. In my career, I've always embraced each day with the anticipation of encountering something new and gaining new knowledge.
Furthermore, I want to emphasize the crucial role of self-care in our profession. As nurses, we are naturally inclined to give our all to our patients, forming the backbone of the healthcare workforce. However, it's vital that we don't neglect our own well-being. The threat of burnout is real among nurses, especially given the persistent nursing shortages we've faced for years. This often results in overtime work and sleep deprivation, pushing many nurses to leave their jobs. Advocating for ourselves is a key strategy to ensure a long, rewarding career in nursing.
Updated
Nikki’s Answer
Nursing school and prerequisite science classes teachs
you a lot of the nuts and bolts with big concepts of how different body systems and medications work but on the job training teaches you how to use those concepts in real life.
One of the biggest things you'll learn on the job is how to talk to all types of different patients. You'll have patients that are happy and excited, those that are angry and yelling, those who got really bad news, those who are in pain and everywhere in between. You will learn how to effecticely communicate with all of them!
You'll also be a part of a huge healthcare team all with the collective goal of helping each patient so you will learn how to be a team player. As a nurse, you will be one of the team members that spends the most time with the patient so you will learn to advocate and speak up for the patient's needs based on what you see.
you a lot of the nuts and bolts with big concepts of how different body systems and medications work but on the job training teaches you how to use those concepts in real life.
One of the biggest things you'll learn on the job is how to talk to all types of different patients. You'll have patients that are happy and excited, those that are angry and yelling, those who got really bad news, those who are in pain and everywhere in between. You will learn how to effecticely communicate with all of them!
You'll also be a part of a huge healthcare team all with the collective goal of helping each patient so you will learn how to be a team player. As a nurse, you will be one of the team members that spends the most time with the patient so you will learn to advocate and speak up for the patient's needs based on what you see.