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Home page > Learning Zone > Reader’s Practice Profile
Reader’s Practice Profile
In this section you can study practice profiles from other readers, who explain how they used Nursing Standard Learning Zone articles to improve their own practice.
Student assessment
After reading a learning zone article Lisa Dryden was determined to improve her knowledge of mentorship skills
As a registered nurse I work with and mentor nursing students. I found the learning zone article interesting because it identified ways to support learning.
Assessment in practice usually has an audience, which can be a daunting experience. Under supervision, a first-year nursing student, for example, may forget to ensure a dependent patient is covered to maintain his or her dignity while assisting the patient with personal hygiene, or may talk to his or her supervisor over the patient to conceal his or her anxiety.
This practice profile is based on:
NS655 Price B (2012) Key principles in assessing students' practice-based learning. Nursing Standard. 26, 49, 49-55.
In this section:
- Acute variceal haemorrhageAs a nurse with a background in gastroenterology, the article was a reminder that nursing management is key to successful resuscitation and recovery of patients presenting with acute variceal haemorrhage - often sudden and explosive bleeding that is frightening for the patient.
- Anticoagulant therapyDuring an oncology placement I encountered a patient who was being treated with warfarin. I realised I did not know enough about this type of therapy to care for the patient effectively.
- Asthma After reading a learning zone article, Dan Taylor has a better understanding of this chronic disease of the airways
- Asthma and allergic rhinitis After reading a learning zone article, Tracy Mooney recognises the relationship between asthma and allergic rhinitis
- Atrial fibrillationAtrial fibrillation is a common post-operative complication for patients on a cardiothoracic ward. It is important to recognise it early, give a clear explanation of the condition to the patient and instigate early treatment with appropriate anticoagulants.
- Atrial fibrillation 2I encountered atrial fibrillation for the first time on a recent clinical placement.
- Atrial fibrillation 3 Rebecca Stevenson is better able to recognise symptoms in those at risk of AF after reading a learning zone article
- Atrial fibrillation 4 A learning zone article enhanced Dawn Witham's skills in delivering the best care for people with cardiac arrhythmias
- Back pain Personal experience and reading a learning zone article have helped Irene Smith to advise patients and colleagues
- Breast cancerWorking as a staff nurse in a breast cancer unit has enabled me to gain a good understanding of diagnosis of and treatments for primary breast cancer and the NHS national screening programme. My role is to work closely with the specialist team in the unit during assessment, follow up and screening clinics.
- Cancer cachexiaAs a result of reading the article, I have improved my knowledge of the effects of cachexia, including social and psychological implications, the cachectic process and the acute phase response. It is important for nurses to differentiate between normal weight loss (caused by reduced food intake), which can be rectified, and cachexia.
- Cardiovascular diseaseAs part of my role as a nurse practitioner in a GP surgery, I am responsible for health promotion and for compiling practice protocols. A recent NHS initiative suggested that GP surgeries undertake health checks on patients identified as at risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes or kidney disease.
- Care of minor injuriesI work as a first aid trainer, predominantly for childcare providers. The article has increased my knowledge about communication and effective methods to use when taking a history from a casualty who may be upset and frightened.
- Caring for frail patientsThe learning zone article on frailty was thought provoking. Frailty has become synonymous with vulnerability and is a state caused by many factors, including disability, recurrent infection and multiple comorbidities.
- Cataract surgeryAs a nurse practitioner studying for a diploma in diabetes care, I have become increasingly aware of eye disorders in patients with diabetes. Most of the literature relates to the risks of retinopathy: however, diabetes also accelerates cataract formation.
- CellulitisI regularly encountered patients with cellulitis while on community placement. It quickly became evident to me that this was a painful condition that was not only distressing for the patient but also for the families involved.
- Children’s travel healthAs a travel health nurse I often see families about to travel overseas. To provide appropriate and holistic advice a travel health nurse should undertake a destination-specific risk assessment.
- Chronic fatigue syndromeAs a nurse practitioner working in a GP surgery, I often encounter patients who complain of feeling 'tired all the time'. On listening to patients, it becomes evident why excessive fatigue has occurred in some cases. In others, no specific diagnosis can be made, and patients are reassured that all is normal and they should return if the fatigue continues.
- Continence care A learning zone article has helped boost Lorraine Drinan’s confidence in her knowledge and skills to support patients.
- Continence careAs a student in adult nursing, caring for patients with continence problems is part of my everyday practice. However, I was not aware of the scale of continence problems and the effect these problems have on individuals' quality of life.
- Continence care 3As a nursing student, I have spent time on an older people's ward and looked after patients who require continence care. Before reading the learning zone article, I was not aware of the extent to which continence problems can affect people.
- Dealing with obesityWith an increasing number of people classified as overweight in the UK, it is important to understand the causes, diagnosis and health risks associated with excess body fat.
- DeliriumI work in a care home in which most of the residents are older people, the majority of whom have some form of dementia.
- DeliriumI often assess patients who are reportedly confused or considered to have 'early dementia'. Some patients were living independently and their confusion is of recent onset. Such symptoms might indicate delirium, so I was interested to read the learning zone article.
- DementiaAs I work in a nursing home for older people with dementia, I found the article particularly relevant to my practice. Communication is a fundamental need for all human beings and is essential to everyday life. It enhances a sense of belonging and is at the core of a nurse's professional practice.
- Dementia careSymptoms of dementia include memory loss, mood changes and communication difficulties. When caring for patients with dementia it is vital to be able to understand their needs, but this is not always possible on wards where staff are extremely busy and where family members or carers may not be present to help articulate patients' wishes.
- Dementia careAn appreciation of the unique way in which dementia affects each individual is key to effective communication with those who have the disease. Factors that influence communication include sensory deficit, lack of clarity, distractions such as noise and movement, anxiety, fear and reluctance to participate.
- Diabetic ketoacidosisI am a band 5 staff nurse in an acute medical unit where patients are commonly admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis. The article updated my knowledge of the condition and the latest treatment guidelines.
- Domestic violence I am studying to work as a health visitor and have researched domestic violence as part of my training. This article has helped me to think about my responses when someone discloses such violence.
- Domestic violenceAs a paediatric nurse in an emergency department, I am aware of a close link between domestic violence and child abuse. The ways in which someone subjected to domestic violence and a child in need can be abused are very similar.
- Effective mentorshipThis article reminded me that it is important for mentors not to undermine students' confidence while continuing to challenge them in preparation for qualification and further managerial responsibilities.
- Faecal incontinence Susanna Crichton now has a better understanding of the benefits of active drainage systems
- Faecal incontinence Nurses in almost every care environment come into contact with faecally incontinent patients. It is therefore vital that we, as practitioners, are aware of the issues relating to it.
- Fungal infections A learning zone article heightened Rebecca Land's understanding of fungal infections and how to prevent them
- Head injury Reading a learning zone article helped Sarah Holling to review and refresh her knowledge of emergency care.
- Healthy ageing I work in a dementia research clinic, and promoting healthy ageing is an important part of what we do. This article outlined the key points that need to be addressed to improve the quality of life of older people.
- Healthy ageingWorking as a nurse in acute medicine, I encounter patients daily who exhibit signs of undernourishment. The article highlighted the importance of lifestyle factors such as nutrition in healthy ageing.
- History takingTaking a patient history is a task I rarely carry out; however, after reading the learning zone article I have a better understanding of the process involved and how to do it effectively.
- History taking 2 A learning zone article helped Joanne Hardy evaluate her practice and refresh her knowledge of clinical guidelines
- HydrationAs an orthopaedic nurse, I have cared for many patients with poor hydration. I read the learning zone article to ensure that my knowledge on the subject was up to date, and to improve my practice.
- Infection controlThe article made me aware that Escherichia coli is normally found in the human gastrointestinal tract and causes healthcare associated infection (HCAI).
- Inhaler techniqueMany of the older patients on my ward have asthma and use various inhaler devices. It is essential for good asthma control that the correct drug is prescribed and delivered effectively to the lungs.
- Iron deficiency anaemia Having read a learning zone article, Yvonne Potter now feels better able to offer patients pre-pregnancy advice
- Job applicationsI am a third-year pre-registration nursing student and have just started the final module of my course. The module is aimed at preparing pre-registration nursing students for their transition to fully qualified, registered nurse status.
- Liver transplantationCommon causes of liver disease include alcohol misuse, viral hepatitis and unhealthy diet. Liver transplantation may be required for some patients, and as a nurse working in intensive care, I am involved in the immediate post-operative management of such patients.
- Managing anxiety Shabina Ghafoor has improved her knowledge of anxiety disorders after reading a learning zone article
- Managing asthmaThis article has improved my understanding of the pathophysiology of asthma and the role of pharmacological therapies. I am now confident in my ability to identify risk factors for asthma and help people make positive changes in their lifestyle to improve control of the disease.
- Meningococcal B disease Louise Rowland recognises the importance of early detection after reading a learning zone article.
- Menopause The article improved my awareness of the signs of menopause, as well as the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
- Mental health crises Andrew Clark believes the care he gives has improved as a result of reading a learning zone article
- Mental health in older peopleI read this article to help me recognise the common mental health problems that an older person may present with, such as depression, delirium and dementia, on admission to a general hospital.
- Mentoring studentsAs a senior sister practising in a care home for older people, my role involves mentoring pre-registration nursing students. The learning zone article updated my awareness of how important medicines management is to the nurse's role and the importance of adequate and supportive mentorship.
- MentorshipI work on a mental health assessment ward for older people, and recently attended a mentorship course at Glasgow Caledonian University. I have now mentored students and nurses at various stages of their training, and assisted other members of the team to mentor nursing students on the ward.
- Metastatic breast cancerPatients admitted to the oncology ward with breast cancer are in various stages of the disease. Some will receive their first dose of chemotherapy whereas others may need emergency treatment for febrile neutropaenia or other side effects of chemotherapy.
- Minor injuriesReading the article increased my knowledge and understanding of the skills needed to assess and treat patients with minor injuries effectively and efficiently.
- Minor injury consultationAs a staff nurse in an emergency department, the learning zone article was helpful because triaging and assessing patients with minor injuries is a large part of my work. I was particularly interested in the different approaches to consultations.
- MRSAThe learning zone article on meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) enabled me to evaluate the management of healthcare-associated infections and infection control policies.
- MRSA in hospitalsAs a nursing student, it is essential for me to update my knowledge continually so that I can provide patients with the best care possible.
- Nebuliser therapyNebuliser therapy is an important part of nursing patients with respiratory disease. Despite controversy about their use, nebulisers still have value in certain clinical situations.
- Needlestick injuriesAs a staff nurse working in a community anticoagulation team, my role involves obtaining capillary blood samples as part of a near-patient testing programme.
- Nutrition Various factors should be considered when providing nutritional care to patients with a life-limiting illness. Appetite and behaviour towards food can change and this can affect individuals physically and psychologically.
- Nutrition and hydration A learning zone article increased Lisa Scott's knowledge of nutrition and its important role in patient recovery
- Nutrition and hydration in hospital A learning zone article prompted Laura Flint to consider how she can enhance mealtime arrangements on her ward
- Oncological emergenciesAs a nurse returning to the workplace, the article on managing oncological emergencies has given me the opportunity to reflect on my experience and skills, and to focus on how best to improve my knowledge.
- Patient history takingReading the learning zone article on taking a patient history encouraged me to reflect on this core clinical skill. I have worked in a variety of different areas of nursing since I qualified as a nurse more than ten years ago, and taking a patient history is a skill that is applicable to all areas of nursing.
- Patient prioritisationAfter reading the learning zone article, I have a better understanding of the triage processes used to ensure patients are prioritised correctly.
- Patients at risk A learning zone article prompted Katy Jones to explore how to make her clinical practice more patient-centred
- PolypharmacyWhen I started working in a nursing home, I was surprised by the number of medications residents take. Almost all take more than four prescription drugs and often it appears that one medication is prescribed to combat the side effects of another.
- PolypharmacyOlder people often have a number of coexisting health problems and frequently need to take multiple medications. Polypharmacy can be defined as taking four or more different drugs that have the potential to interact with each other.
- Postnatal depressionI was surprised to learn from the article that 13% of women develop a form of depression after childbirth. I also read that most women will not seek help because they fear being judged by others and being thought of as unfit mothers.
- Pre-operative assessment Joanne Hardy realises the importance of patient assessment before surgery after reading a learning zone article
- Preventing falls A learning zone article encouraged Derrick Tait to make changes in his workplace to avoid falls
- Preventing falls in older peopleNursing students, qualified nurses and healthcare assistants should all be aware of the effect a fall can have on an individual, as well as the cost implications to the NHS. Preventing falls in older people is an important task for nurses on wards or in community settings.
- Promoting fluid intake A learning zone article has broadened Elizabeth Hunt's knowledge of hydration and its promotion among patients
- Promoting hydrationAs a third-year nursing student, I have completed many practice placements and have first-hand experience of why hydration is vital for patients. I have cared for older people with dementia or similar cognitive impairments, many of whom do not understand the importance of drinking regularly to maintain hydration.
- Prostate cancer After reading a learning zone article Ruth Outhwaite is confident in caring for patients with prostate cancer
- Red meat in the dietI have considered giving up meat many times, especially as some of my friends are vegetarian or vegan. I have even tried cooking without meat for a few days, but I always end up eating it again.
- Sexual healthAs a clinical nurse specialist in sexual health in rural Australia, I see many adolescents and young adults with various sexually transmitted infections (STI), including chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
- Skill analysisSometimes it is difficult to describe what you do as a nurse and how you practise nursing, even to other nurses. However, by naming a practice skill and describing what it involves, you can describe what is skilful and examine which parts of a skill you do well.
- Skill analysis 2As a nursing student, I understand that the profession involves many skills that are essential for safe and effective patient care. With the rapidly changing nature of nursing practice in the 21st century, nurses should embrace lifelong learning and ongoing skills updating.
- Skin floraReading the learning zone article on skin flora prompted consideration of my practice in this area. Working as a nurse practitioner in a GP surgery, I see patients at ten-minute intervals and ensure that cross-infection does not occur. I also see patients scheduled to have operations, and I sometimes swab these patients for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection.
- Spiritual careAs a nursing student in my final community placement, I have been involved in supporting patients, and their families, at the end of life. Accurate and full assessment of palliative care needs is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment.
- Spiritual care needs A learning zone article gave Rebecca Therese Muckle an insight into how to support patients' spiritual care needs
- Student assessment After reading a learning zone article Lisa Dryden was determined to improve her knowledge of mentorship skills
- Surgical patients with diabetes A learning zone article enhanced Lyn Kenny's skills in caring for patients on surgical wards
- Surgical site infection A learning zone article has inspired Lisa Dryden to see whether practice in this area of care could be improved
- Temporary tracheostomyI work in a post-anaesthetic care unit, where staff may have to care for patients who have had a tracheostomy inserted in theatre. I also work in an intensive care unit (ICU) that carries out tracheostomies.
- ThyroidectomyI work as a staff nurse on a surgical ward and often care for patients following thyroidectomy. I am aware of the signs and symptoms of possible post-operative complications, but this article improved my understanding of their physiological and medical background.
- Trans fats Having read a learning zone article, Leanne Fallon has a better understanding of diet and health risks
- Treating psoriasisPsoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that can have an immense physical and psychological effect on people's lives. Before I read the article and did some research, I was not aware of the extent to which it affects people. Patients with psoriasis experience emotional distress and anxiety, and 79% of individuals with psoriasis are extremely self-conscious, being too embarrassed to go swimming or visit the beach (Beresford 2002).
- TriageI found this article timely and interesting because I work in an emergency department where the triage process is currently being changed.
- Vascular access devicesInsertion, care and management of vascular access devices, and administration of fluids and medication are common tasks undertaken on oncology wards.
- Vulnerable adultsI work in a community rehabilitation team treating adults with physical illness or disability. Safeguarding is an issue that is frequently discussed in my team.
The RCN Publishing Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Royal College of Nursing, the world's largest organisation for nurses. RCN Publishing produces one weekly, eight monthly and two quarterly nursing publications. Nursing Standard, the flagship journal, is the UK's biggest selling weekly for nursing. It is produced by RCN Publishing Company along with a suite of specialist nursing journals - Cancer Nursing Practice, Mental Health Practice, Learning Disability Practice, Nursing Children and Young People, Nursing Management, Emergency Nurse, Nursing Older People, Nurse Researcher and Primary Health Care. RCN Publishing Company also produce the RCN Bulletin, a major source of up-to-the-minute information for RCN members in all specialities, grades and working environments. With the latest nurse vacancies from trusts nationwide, it has become the most cost-effective nurse recruitment magazine available.