This simulation experience has been unlike any other nursing experience that I have ever had prior to joining this class. My group responsible for utilizing communication wisely to gather information from our client as well as helping them design goals for treatment. This was quite a big challenge for me personally because I typically become a little anxious around the idea of speaking one on one with real patients. Nursing school up to this point has presented with a large focus towards how to look for complications and how to fix them. However, up until this point, we have yet to acknowledge how to communicate with a client an admission process. I found that this learning simulation helped me figure out for myself how to create mental goals for what information is most important from the patient, and how to provide feedback as a healthcare personnel. For example, if a patient mentions feeling hopelessness, that rings an alarm for a risk of potential self-harm. Based on that statement, I would redirect my previous questions over to a risk assessment because it has higher priority for the safety of that patient.

My group was smaller than expected, as one of our members was out sick for that day. Therefore, I did not feel well prepared as I had focused mainly on the tasks that I was responsible for. However, I took responsibility for that team member’s role and maintained composure as we continued along. As a group, we struggled with maintaining the balance between what we wanted as providers, versus the patient’s perspective and wishes. There were many times when team members were aiming to push specific treatment plans onto patients when that was not what the patient really wanted. This can be frustrating for the patient as they will feel that they are not being heard from their providers. However, we did a good job at getting quality information from our patients in terms of wellness and safety. I do still feel a little nervous about addressing mental health in the clinical field, because I have only had a couple experiences practicing my skills in person. However, I am certain that as I continue in the nursing field, I will become more adept at using quality communication in the future.