Primary Health Care (PHC) is a comprehensive approach that encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliati

Introduction

Primary Health Care (PHC) is a comprehensive approach that encompasses health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care (World Health Organization, 2022). It serves as the foundation of an effective health system, addressing most health needs throughout a person's lifetime. During my clinical placement at Warners Bay Private Hospital's rehabilitation ward, I observed how PHC principles enhance patient outcomes and facilitate transitions back to the community (Inpatient Rehabilitation, 2024).

This reflection articulates my understanding of PHC principles, explores their application in the rehabilitation ward, and examines barriers and enablers to providing comprehensive PHC in my future role as a registered nurse. By analyzing Mrs. Thompson's complex case, I aim to understand her multifaceted condition and the interplay of her health issues (Berg, 2021). This analysis will help identify strategies to improve patient outcomes, enhance care quality, and potentially reduce healthcare costs through efficient collaboration (Edelist et al., 2024). Furthermore, it provides lessons on optimizing interdisciplinary care within the PHC framework (World Health Organization, 2020).

Personal Reflection

I have utilized Gibbs Reflective Cycle for deeper insights into my personal reflection (Channell, 2023).

Description

During my clinical placement, I cared for Mrs. Thompson, a 68-year-old; female recovering from Guillain-Barr syndrome (GBS). Her case involved multiple conditions: hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, and depression. After three weeks in intensive care due to respiratory failure from GBS, she presented with residual weakness in all limbs, fine motor skill difficulties, intermittent oxygen needs, swallowing issues, and anxiety. The interdisciplinary team included nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, respiratory therapists, psychologists, and social workers (NSW Health, 2020).

Feelings

Initially overwhelmed by her case complexity and the number of professionals involved made me anxious about missing vital information or making mistakes (Farooq Azam Rathore et al., 2024). However, as I engaged more in her care, I developed excitement and purpose. The collaborative nature of our work was inspiring; I felt privileged to be part of a team making a significant difference in a patient's life. I empathized with Mrs. Thompson's physical and emotional challenges in old age (National Institute on Aging, 2023), and her determination to regain independence was both heartening and motivating (Wu, 2021).

Evaluation

The interdisciplinary patient care approach was highly effective. Regular team meetings ensured alignment on treatment goals and progress. The open communication channels allowed for quick adjustments to care plans when necessary (NSW Health, 2014). A challenge was coordinating therapy timing to ensure adequate rest for Mrs. Thompson. Communication breakdowns occasionally led to scheduling conflicts (Farooq Azam Rathore et al., 2024). My role in medication management and vital signs monitoring went smoothly. However, I sometimes struggled to articulate nursing observations effectively during discussions with other specialists.

Analysis

This case highlighted the importance of a holistic, patient-centered approach in PHC (Jasemi et al., 2017). Each team member contributed unique expertise to a comprehensive care plan addressing all aspects of the patient's health (Khatri et al., 2023). The experience underscored effective communication's critical role in interdisciplinary teams (Farooq Azam Rathore et al., 2024). Clear communication improved patient care noticeably whereas miscommunications led to inefficiencies and potential risks (Sangaleti et al., 2017). I realized that while my nursing education prepared me for clinical tasks well, I needed a deeper understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration complexities (Calma et al., 2019).

Conclusion

This experience reinforced the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in complex care scenarios. It demonstrated how effectively applied PHC principles can improve patient outcomes and enhance care delivery efficiency (World Health Organization, 2022). I learned that effective collaboration requires not only clinical knowledge but also strong communication skills and confidence in ones professional role (Gelis et al., 2020). This experience also highlighted areas for improvementparticularly articulating nursing perspectives in various healthcare contexts.

Action Plan

To enhance my ability to contribute effectively to interdisciplinary teams and provide comprehensive PHC in the future. I aim to the following.

Seek additional training in interdisciplinary communication and PHC implementation strategies (Shaha & Grace, 2022).

Deepen my understanding of other healthcare professionals' roles in comprehensive PHC (NSW Health, 2020).

Advocate for interdisciplinary collaboration experiences and PHC-focused education (Shaha & Grace, 2022).

Develop skills in identifying and addressing social determinants of health (Berg, 2021).

Stay informed about current PHC policies and initiatives to better advocate for their implementation (NSW Health, 2020).

Maintain a reflective journal to analyze and learn from my experiences focusing on PHC principles.

By implementing these actions, I believe to be an effective team member advocating for comprehensive patient-centered care in my future nursing practice (Implementing the Primary Health Care Approach: A Primer, n.d.). This experience has deepened my understanding of PHC principles crucial for delivering high-quality integrated healthcare. As I transition into my role as a registered nurse, I will strive to incorporate these principles into daily practice to improve patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency (Health, 2021).

Literature Review

PHC principles encompass equity, access, empowerment, community participation, and intersectoral collaboration (Health, 2024). In rehabilitation, PHC provides a holistic, patient-centered approach addressing both immediate medical needs and broader health concerns (World Health Organization, 2022). The Australian Government's Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 2022-2032 outlines policies to strengthen PHC delivery through improved care integration and interdisciplinary workforce support. The Declaration of Alma-Ata emphasizes core PHC principles (Rifkin, 2018):

Universal accessibility and coverage

Community participation

Intersectoral collaboration

Appropriate technology

Health promotion and disease prevention

This model aligns with PHC by providing comprehensive, integrated care addressing all aspects of Mrs. Thompson's health:

Comprehensive Care: Addressing physical, psychological, and social health aspects

Person-Centered Approach: Tailoring rehabilitation plans to individual needs

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Involving multiple healthcare professionals

Continuity of Care: Ensuring seamless transitions between care levels

In rehabilitation settings, PHC principles are crucial for promoting functional independence, quality of life, and successful community transitions (Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2022).

Comprehensive vs. Selective PHC

Mrs. Thompson's case represents both comprehensive and selective PHC approaches. Comprehensive PHC addresses broader health determinants, while selective PHC targets specific, cost-effective interventions (Berg, 2021).

Comprehensive PHC Elements in Mrs. Thompson's Care:

Multidisciplinary team approach

Addressing social determinants (e.g., home environment, family support)

Focus on rehabilitation and functional independence

Selective PHC Elements:

Management of specific conditions (GBS, hypertension, diabetes)

Targeted interventions (e.g., swallowing therapy, respiratory support)

This balanced approach in Mrs. Thompson's care demonstrates the integration of both PHC models in complex rehabilitation settings which is crucial for addressing immediate concerns and long-term well-being.

Enablers and Barriers to Effective PHC Delivery in Clinical Practice

Key enablers for effective PHC delivery in rehabilitation:

Strong interdisciplinary collaboration: Khatri et al. (2023) emphasize teamwork's importance in delivering comprehensive care. In Mrs. Thompson's case, regular meetings, handover and proper documentation allowed quick adjustments to her care plan.

Person-centered approaches: Jasemi et al. (2017) highlight the significance of a holistic, patient-centered approach in Primary Health Care. This was evident in Mrs. Thompson's care, where the team focused on her functional independence and quality of life.

Integration of health services: NSW Health (2020) guidelines emphasize the importance of integrated care models. The involvement of a social worker demonstrates this integration by addressing both health and social needs.

Ongoing professional development: Shaha & Grace (2022) stress the importance of continuous education in PHC principles for healthcare professionals. This was reflected in the team's ability to apply PHC concepts effectively while suggesting ongoing learning and development in the workforce.

Utilization of technology: While not explicitly mentioned in Mrs. Thompson's case, literature suggests leveraging technology can enhance coordination across providers (World Health Organization, 2022).

Based on Mrs. Thompson's case a several barriers to effective PHC delivery can be identified:

Fragmentation across specialists:This can lead to poorer outcomes and increased costs (Edelist et al., 2024); ensuring seamless integration was challenging but crucial for recovery of Mrs Thompson.

Communication challenges:Farooq Azam Rathore et al. (2024) highlight communication breakdowns as significant barriers to effective interdisciplinary care in rehabilitation settings. This was evident when coordinating therapies sometimes led to scheduling conflicts.

Gaps in training:Calma et al. (2019) identified inadequate training as a barrier in interprofessional collaboration. Some team members struggled integrating specialized knowledge with broader PHC approaches.

Insufficient focus on social determinants:Berg (2021) emphasizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health in comprehensive PHC. While medical needs were addressed initially limited consideration was given to her home environment and social support system.

Limited time for planning:The complex nature required extensive planning which was challenging given time constraints in the busy ward with extra patient load.

Critical Analysis

Integration with Literature

My experience highlighted key aspects of PHC practice; the observed interdisciplinary approach aligns closely with WHOs principle of comprehensive care (World Health Organization, 2022). Each team member contributed unique expertise towards a holistic care plan (Khatri et al., 2023). This collaborative approach exemplifies how PHC can be effectively implemented in specialized settings like rehabilitation.

The challenges faced in coordinating different therapies and ensuring clear communication among team members reflect findings by Farooq Azam Rathore et al. (2024), who identified communication breakdowns as significant barriers; this underscores the need for robust strategies in complex scenarios.

Comparison with Research Findings

My feelings of being overwhelmed align with Calma et al.'s findings on gaps in training for collaborative practice; this suggests enhanced education programs are necessary for preparing nurses better for interdisciplinary complexities.

The focus on Mrs. Thompsons functional independence aligns with PHCs emphasis on health promotion preventing complications while considering her home environment reflects addressing social determinants principle broadly within PHC framework (Berg, 2021).

Implications for Future Nursing Practice

Enhanced communication skills: I plan to seek additional training recognizing the importance of clear communication within interdisciplinary teams (Shaha & Grace, 2022).

Holistic approach: I will strive to maintain a comprehensive view of patient care, considering immediate health needs including social factors (World Health Organization, 2022).

Continuous learning: I will commit to ongoing development, bridging theory-practice gap in PHC principles and staying informed on current policies (NSW Health, 2020). (NSW Health, 2020).

Advocacy for Universal Health Coverage: In future, I aim to advocate for universal health coverage policies that reduce financial barriers to comprehensive healthcare services.

Focus on social determinants: I will develop skills to identify and address social determinants impacting patient outcomes across various healthcare settings (Berg, 2021).

As I transition into my nursing role, I will actively seek opportunities applying these principles across various healthcare settings recognizing their broad applicability beyond community centers.

Conclusion

This reflection has provided insights into PHC principles in complex rehabilitation settings. I've gained understanding of integrated, patient-centered care for complex health needs, the importance of effective communication in interdisciplinary teams, and the need to consider social determinants in comprehensive care planning. The case shows well-implemented principles like comprehensive care, while highlighting areas needing strengthening, such as intersectoral coordination and community participation (Edelist et al., 2024).

Nurses play crucial roles in PHC delivery, advocating for patient-centered care, coordinating across disciplines, promoting health literacy and self-management, engaging communities, and committing to continuous learning (Australian Government, 2021). I'm committed to integrating PHC principles to improve outcomes, enhance efficiency, and promote equitable healthcare. I'll strive to balance descriptive care aspects with critical analysis of PHC implementation, continuously reflecting on improving care delivery within the PHC framework. This experience has deepened my understanding of PHC principles' crucial role in delivering high-quality, integrated healthcare across various settings, including specialized areas like rehabilitation.

References

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2022, March 25).Australias Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 20222032. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/australias-primary-health-care-10-year-plan-2022-2032?language=en

Australian Government. (2021, March 28).Primary Health Networks. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/phn

Berg, S. (2021). Primary Healthcare Policy Research: Including Variables Associated With the Social Determinants of Health Matters Comment on Universal Health Coverage for Non-communicable Diseases and Health Equity: Lessons From Australian Primary Healthcare.International Journal of Health Policy and Management. https://doi.org/10.34172/ijhpm.2021.102Calma, K. R. B., Halcomb, E., & Stephens, M. (2019). The impact of curriculum on nursing students attitudes, perceptions and preparedness to work in primary health care: An integrative review.Nurse Education in Practice,39, 110. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nepr.2019.07.006

Channell, M. (2023).Gibbs Reflective Cycle How to Learn from Experience and Become a Better Leader. TSW Training; TSW Training. https://www.tsw.co.uk/blog/leadership-and-management/gibbs-reflective-cycle/

Clendon, Jill & Munns, Ailsa & McMurray, Anne. (2018). Community health and wellness : principles of primary health care / Jill Clendon and Ailsa Munns with Anne McMurray.

Edelist, T., Friesen, F., Ng, S., Fernandez, N., Blisle, M., Lechasseur, K., Rochette, A., Vachon, B., & Marieve Caty. (2024). Critical reflection in teambased practice: A narrative review.Medical Education. https://doi.org/10.1111/medu.15462Farooq Azam Rathore, Anwar, F., & Younas, U. (2024, January 20).Multidisciplinary Team Working in Rehabilitation Medicine: Advantages and challenges. ResearchGate; Pakistan Medical Association. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377696881_Multidisciplinary_Team_Working_in_Rehabilitation_Medicine_Advantages_and_challengesGelis, A., Cervello, S., Rey, R., Llorca, G., Lambert, P., Franck, N., Dupeyron, A., Delpont, M., & Rolland, B. (2020). Peer Role-Play for Training Communication Skills in Medical Students.Simulation in Healthcare: The Journal of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare,15(2), 1. https://doi.org/10.1097/sih.0000000000000412Health. (2021, June 8).Primary Health Care Activity. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/primary-health-care-activity

Health. (2024, September 27).Primary care. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/topics/primary-care?utm_source=health.gov.au&utm_medium=callout-auto-customInpatient Rehabilitation. (2024). Warnersbayprivate.com.au. https://www.warnersbayprivate.com.au/Our-Services/Inpatient-Rehabilitation

Implementing the primary health care approach: a primer. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240090583

Jasemi, M., Valizadeh, L., Zamanzadeh, V., & Keogh, B. (2017). A Concept Analysis of Holistic Care by Hybrid Model.Indian Journal of Palliative Care,23(1), 7180. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-1075.197960Khatri, R., Endalamaw, A., Erku, D., Wolka, E., Nigatu, F., Zewdie, A., & Assefa, Y. (2023). Continuity and care coordination of primary health care: A scoping review.BMC Health Services Research,23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09718-8National Institute on Aging. (2023, October 12).Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home. National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/aging-place-growing-older-home

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NSW Health. (2020).Multidisciplinary team - integrated care. NSW Government. https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/integratedcare/Pages/Multidisciplinary-team-care.aspxRifkin, S. B. (2018). Alma Ata after 40 years: Primary Health Care and Health for Allfrom consensus to complexity.BMJ Global Health,3(Suppl 3), e001188. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2018-001188

Sangaleti, C., Schveitzer, M. C., Peduzzi, M., Zoboli, E. L. C. P., & Soares, C. B. (2017). Experiences and shared meaning of teamwork and interprofessional collaboration among health care professionals in primary health care settings.JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports,15(11), 27232788. https://doi.org/10.11124/jbisrir-2016-003016

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66675509270I did my placement in Warners Bay Private Hospital at Warners Bay from 5th of August 2024- 31st of August in rehabilitation ward. Mrs. Thompson, a 68-year-old retired teacher, was admitted to Warners Bay Private Hospital's rehabilitation ward following a severe case of Guillain-Barr syndrome (GBS). Her medical history includes:

Hypertension (diagnosed 10 years ago, well-controlled with medication)

Type 2 diabetes (diagnosed 5 years ago, managed with oral medications and diet)

Osteoarthritis in both knees (diagnosed 3 years ago)

History of depression (diagnosed after retirement 2 years ago, managed with counseling and low-dose antidepressants)

She had spent three weeks in the intensive care unit due to respiratory failure caused by GBS and was now in the recovery phase. Prior to this episode, Mrs. Thompson was living independently, though she occasionally used a cane for longer walks due to her knee arthritis. She was active in her local community, volunteering at a literacy program for adults.

Status:

Residual weakness in all limbs, more pronounced in the lower extremities

Difficulty with fine motor skills

Respiratory issues, requiring intermittent oxygen support

Swallowing difficulties

Anxiety and depression related to her condition

Lives alone in a two-story house

Limited family support nearby

00I did my placement in Warners Bay Private Hospital at Warners Bay from 5th of August 2024- 31st of August in rehabilitation ward. Mrs. Thompson, a 68-year-old retired teacher, was admitted to Warners Bay Private Hospital's rehabilitation ward following a severe case of Guillain-Barr syndrome (GBS). Her medical history includes:

Hypertension (diagnosed 10 years ago, well-controlled with medication)

Type 2 diabetes (diagnosed 5 years ago, managed with oral medications and diet)

Osteoarthritis in both knees (diagnosed 3 years ago)

History of depression (diagnosed after retirement 2 years ago, managed with counseling and low-dose antidepressants)

She had spent three weeks in the intensive care unit due to respiratory failure caused by GBS and was now in the recovery phase. Prior to this episode, Mrs. Thompson was living independently, though she occasionally used a cane for longer walks due to her knee arthritis. She was active in her local community, volunteering at a literacy program for adults.

Status:

Residual weakness in all limbs, more pronounced in the lower extremities

Difficulty with fine motor skills

Respiratory issues, requiring intermittent oxygen support

Swallowing difficulties

Anxiety and depression related to her condition

Lives alone in a two-story house

Limited family support nearby

Appendix

Introduction

This critical reflection explores my learning throughout NUR536 Communication, Health Informatics and Technology examining how these experiences have shaped my understanding of modern nursing practice. In an era where healthcare is rapidly evolving, with increasing technological integration and a growing emphasis on cultural competence, these skills are vital for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care (Huter et al., 2020). I will be explore on four key experiences using the Gibbs' Reflective cycle that have challenged my assumptions, deepened my understanding, and raised important questions about future professional practice. (Coombs, 2019).

This reflection process is not merely an academic exercise but a crucial step in my ongoing professional development within an ever-changing healthcare landscape (Winkel et al., 2017). By critically reviewing communication models, health informatics, and their implications for future leadership roles, I aim to establish a foundation for effective and culturally safe nursing practice. This analysis will also consider how these skills can address current healthcare challenges, such as improving patient outcomes, reducing health disparities, and enhancing healthcare delivery efficiency. Through this reflection, I seek to demonstrate how my thinking has evolved and how I plan to apply these insights in my future nursing career. (Coombs, 2019).

Reflective analysis

Time management challenges in nursing group projects

Description

Our group developed a smart health innovator project for Assignment 2, facing significant challenges in coordinating efforts while balancing clinical placements and varying shift schedules.

Feelings

Initially overwhelmed by task complexity and coordination challenges, I felt anxious about ensuring equal contributions and meeting deadlines. However, I was excited about the potential impact of this innovative technology on patient care.

Evaluation

Despite time management challenges, we managed to communicated effectively and divided tasks allowing individual timelines within the overall project frame. Our struggle with scheduling and coordination provided insights into the realities of nursing practice and the importance of effective time management (Vizeshfar et al., 2022). We utilized digital tools like WhatsApp and discussion boards to keep everyone aligned.

Analysis:

This experience emphasized the critical importance of time management and teamwork skills in nursing, both for patient care and professional development (van Wieringen et al., 2022). Our challenges mirrored the daily realities of nursing, where professionals must juggle multiple responsibilities. The project underscored that successful implementation requires not just technological solutions but also strategies to manage human aspects of healthcare delivery (John-Michael, 2024). I learned that diverse teams, with different clinical experiences and perspectives, can contribute to a more comprehensive and realistic implementation plan. (Bosch & Mansell, 2021).

Conclusion:I learned that implementing innovative healthcare technologies requires not only technical knowledge but also strong time management, communication, and teamwork skills (van Wieringen et al., 2022). Along with the clinical knowledge, I realized the importance of "soft skills" in both patient care and professional collaboration. This experience significantly enhanced my ability to work in diverse teams and improved my project management skills.

Action Plan:

In future roles, I will prioritize developing strong time management and teamwork skills, advocate for realistic timelines, and emphasize interprofessional collaboration. I plan to enhance my project management and digital collaboration skills while staying informed about emerging healthcare technologies. In leadership roles, I will emphasize the importance of interprofessional collaboration ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered to create more effective plans.

Cultural Safety in Nursing Communication

Description:

We discussed the concept of cultural safety, focusing on communication that acknowledges the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in tutorial 4. We explored principles of culturally appropriate person-centered communication and regulatory standards related to culturally safe practice.

Feelings:

I felt concerned how lack of knowledge and cultural differences could unintentionally cause offense. The depth of cultural considerations in healthcare made me feel both challenged and motivated to improve my understanding (Axner, 2019).

Evaluation:

The tutorial emphasis on avoiding stereotyping and being self-aware of one's own cultural assumptions. The practical communication tips, such as avoiding jargon and being mindful of non-verbal communication norms, were immediately applicable (Centre for Aboriginal Health, 2019). However, I struggled with balancing these considerations with the time pressures in healthcare settings, especially given my different cultural background.

Analysis:

This experience highlighted the critical importance of cultural safety in nursing practice, particularly in the Australian context. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) Registered Nurse Standards for Practice emphasize cultural safety is not just an added consideration but a fundamental aspect of competent nursing care (NMBA, 2016). Cultural safety goes beyond awareness to address power imbalances in healthcare interactions, acknowledging historical and structural factors affecting health. Truly person-centered care must consider the individual's cultural context. The truly person-centered care must consider the cultural context of the individual (Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, 2024). It is an ongoing process of developing awareness, knowledge, and skills related to cultural interactions. The emphasis on avoiding jargon and using professional interpreters when needed aligns with research by the Centre for Aboriginal Health (2019).

Conclusion:

Cultural safety is not just about avoiding offense and treating everyone equally, but about providing truly equitable and effective healthcare (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023). I now understand that culturally safe practice requires ongoing learning, self-reflection, and adaptation of communication strategies throughout my career and beyond (NMBA, 2018).

Action Plan:

I will continuously learn about diverse culture represented in Australian Populations particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to ensure my practice remains current (NMBA, 2016). I will implement learned communication strategies in clinical practice, advocate for professional interpreters when needed, seek feedback on cross-cultural communication skills, and promote cultural safety training in healthcare settings. Looking ahead to future leadership roles, I am committed to promoting cultural safety training and policies, fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect for all cultures.

Developing Therapeutic Relationships in Nursing Practice

Description:Tutorial 4 examined the connection between culture and therapeutic relationships in nursing practice emphasizing culturally appropriate person-centered communication. We defined therapeutic relationships as those built on trust, respect, and understanding between nurses and patients.

Feelings:I was inspired by the potential to positively impact patient care through effective relationships, but I was also concerned about my ability to navigate the complexities of these interactions, especially given the diverse patient populations I might encounter.

Evaluation:The tutorial provided valuable insights into building therapeutic relationships, particularly the phases of relationship development overtime. However, I questioned myself how to maintain these relationships in the fast-paced nature of healthcare limited patient interaction time.

Analysis:The concept of therapeutic relationships, as discussed in our tutorial, aligns closely with Peplau's (1997) theory of interpersonal relations in nursing that outlines the framework for establishing trust and rapport with patients. Peplau emphasizes that the nurse-patient relationship is a crucial component of the healing process (Hagerty et al., 2019). Culturally safe therapeutic relationships require ongoing self-reflection and adaptation to meet each patient's unique needs. Person-centered care involves forming and fostering therapeutic relationships between care providers, patients, and others significant to them (Slater et al., 2017). Additionally, engaging in critical reflexivity allows nurses to continually examine their interactions, vital for building effective therapeutic relationships (Madeson, 2021).

Conclusion:Developing therapeutic relationships within a culturally diverse context requires intentional effort and skill development. I learned that these relationships are not merely about being friendly; they require intentional effort to create an environment helpful to healing (Madeson, 2021). My assumption to develop therapeutic relationships naturally was challenged, as I now understand the need for intentional effort and skill development in this area.

Action Plan:

I will pay close attention to the phases of therapeutic relationships during patient interactions, practice active listening and empathetic communication, seek feedback on my interpersonal skills, and develop strategies for maintaining these relationships under time constraints. (DeAngelis, 2019). Additionally, I will reflect regularly on patient interactions which will help identify areas for improvement in relationship building.

Impact of Electronic Health Records on Nursing Workflow

Description:

In Tutorial 7, we explored the integration of digital health technologies in nursing practice, with a significant focus on Electronic Health Records (EHRs). EHRs and other digital tools can enhance clinical diagnosis, support data-based treatment decisions, and improve the overall quality and efficiency of patient care (Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2022).

Feelings:

I was inspired by the potential for EHRs to streamline workflows and improve patient care, but overwhelmed by system complexity and concerned about changes to traditional nursing practices.

Evaluation:

It provided valuable insights into how nurses could access and assess critical patient information quickly through EHRs (eHealth NSW, 2022). However, I questioned how these systems would integrate with the human aspects of nursing care and whether they might create new challenges.

Analysis:

EHRs are comprehensive systems that can enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient safety (eHealth NSW, 2022). The Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom model, illustrating how EHRs can help nurses move from raw data to actionable knowledge (Kumari, 2023). EHRs can support nurses in providing care through features like automated alerts, trend analysis, and integrated care plans. This reflects the broader shift towards data-driven healthcare (Booth et al. 2021) and highlighted the need for nurses to develop new competencies in digital health, as outlined in the National Nursing and Midwifery Digital Health Capability Framework which underscores the importance of ongoing education. Moreover, Ethical implications, particularly regarding data privacy and security, align with the ICN's call for nurses to ensure technology quality and safety standards.

Conclusion:

EHRs are transforming nursing practice offering significant benefits in efficiency and patient safety. However, they require nurses to develop new skills and navigate complex ethical considerations. My initial view of EHRs as simply digital versions of paper records was challenged, as I now see them as powerful tools that can fundamentally change how we deliver and coordinate patient care information (eHealth NSW, 2022).

Action Plan:

I aim to develop my digital health competencies, staying updated on EHR practices and being mindful of ethical considerations, particularly regarding patient privacy and data security. (Upadhyay & Hu, 2022). I will advocate for comprehensive training and support when implementing EHR systems. In future leadership roles, I will promote the integration of EHRs in ways that support rather than hinder nursing workflow.

Conclusion

This reflective journey has profoundly impacted my understanding of modern nursing practice. Through critical analysis of experiences ranging from group project management to cultural safety, therapeutic relationships, and the integration of electronic health records, I've gained valuable insights into the complexities of effective communication in healthcare settings. My key learnings include the importance of time management and teamwork in implementing innovative technologies, the critical role of cultural safety in providing equitable care, the equitable nature of therapeutic Relationships, and the transformative potential of digital health technologies. These experiences have challenged my assumptions about healthcare delivery and deepened my appreciation for the multiple skills required in nursing (Huter et al., 2020).

Moving forward, I recognize the importance of balancing technological advancements with human-centered care, ensuring that innovations enhance patient experiences (Healthcare Innovation for Better Patient Outcomes, 2023). I plan to continually refine my communication skills, deepen my cultural competence, and stay informed about emerging health technologies. This reflection has reinforced my commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability, qualities I now recognize as essential for effective practice and leadership in the dynamic field of nursing. These insights will guide my efforts to improve patient outcomes, reduce health disparities, and enhance efficiency in healthcare delivery.

References

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