Journal
Assessment
The nursery was one of three room that are dedicated to patients that are babies. The NICU was across the hall and in between was a room that seemed to be a mild NICU with healthier patients. There were several nurses all around all with similar positions and tasks. I did also notice that there was a cleaning person around always sterilizing and cleaning which I found was important. The nursery sees newborns and assesses their health through a series of tests and process. Many babies seem to need to be a certain temperature to be able to return to their mothers and the nurses job is to ensure that the baby is warm enough through the bed they are placed in. Each individual crib/bed was equipped with various technology all essential for the patients. Thermometers were used regularly and blood tests were performed often. The nursery is a very important place in the hospital and ensures the health of newborns and checks that the baby is safe and well to go home.
Observation
I found the nursery a very nice and peaceful place with friendly and caring employees. One thing I saw was that every employee cared for the patients and was happy with taking care of babies. I found that uplifting and allowed for a successful department. Some employees were stubborn and somewhat mean, however that is going to be true no matter where you are. They all worked well with each other and communicated efficiently and often. They helped each other out which I found was beneficial and they all wanted to do the best that they could. They all followed the rules and washed their hands and areas. I really liked the fact that they were all caring and engaged with each baby and they seemed to enjoy their job.
Knowledge
I learned a lot about newborn care and the rare cases that could happen. I was able to see an hour old baby delivered via cesarean and asked the nurse many questions about c-sections. I also unfortunately saw a baby whose mother was addicted to methamphetamine and learned about the affects of prenatal methamphetamine exposure as well as how the nurses helped the boy through certain medicine. The relationship with CPS was apparent as the nurse tried to reach the service for baby supplies. It was shocking to see and sad to know about the baby's situation. I also witnessed several minor cases that occur in newborns and was able to see several mothers come to the area and be with their child. I learned that the nurses use the babies feet quite often and witnesses a CBC. The nurses always take the baby's temperature by axillary as it is the easiest and safest for the baby. The nurses take care of the baby primarily, however the mother is a concern for them as the baby needs the mother for various reasons. I learned a lot about the function of the nursery as well as the NICU, just by listening and awareness, and many interesting procedures for newborns.
Evaluation
I was nervous at first about being around newborn babies, however through the interaction between the nurses, I became more comfortable and was able to relax and learn. I enjoyed my time and found myself lucky with what I saw. Most of the employees were friendly and helped answer my questions. I was able to personally see how important the department is and how it functions. I learned about myself and my views of babies, both medically and personally, and my view of my future. I feel that I learned a lot about medical procedures that will help me in every department. I was shy and hesitant and I learned that I need to be more engaging and talk more. I would ask many more questions and get move involved if I had the chance to go back, but I now know how to learn more in my next rotation.
