Practicum Journal Entry: Week 2
This week, I had the opportunity to work with a patient diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). The patient, a 42-year-old female, was experiencing symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and difficulty with coordination. My primary role in this case was to assist in the assessment and management of her symptoms, as well as to provide support and education to the patient and her family.
During the assessment, I observed the patient’s gait and coordination, performed a neurological examination, and assessed her level of functional impairment. I also discussed her medical history and previous treatments, which included disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as interferon beta-1a and glatiramer acetate.
Based on my observations and the patient’s reported symptoms, I recognized the importance of considering both disease-modifying and symptom-managing approaches to her care. We discussed the potential benefits and risks associated with different DMT options, taking into account the patient’s preferences and lifestyle. Additionally, we explored non-pharmacological interventions, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, to address her functional limitations and improve her quality of life.
In relation to my Professional Goals, this experience allowed me to further develop my skills in assessing and managing patients with chronic neurological conditions. It reinforced the importance of considering the individual needs and preferences of patients when formulating a treatment plan. It also highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in providing comprehensive care, as I had the opportunity to work closely with both the patient and her physical therapist to develop a personalized exercise program.
Furthermore, this experience provided me with the opportunity to reflect on my Self-Assessment of Clinical Skills. I realized that my knowledge of MS, its pathophysiology, and its treatment options was invaluable in guiding my assessment and management decisions. However, I also recognized the need to further enhance my communication skills in order to effectively educate and support patients and their families through the challenges of living with MS.
Overall, working with this patient with MS was a valuable learning experience that helped me to connect my theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice. It deepened my understanding of the complexities of providing care for patients with chronic neurological conditions and reinforced the importance of a patient-centered approach to treatment.
Time Log:
Day 1:
– 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Prepared for the day by reviewing the patient’s medical history and relevant literature on MS.
– 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Assisted in the assessment of the patient’s gait and coordination.
– 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Discussed the patient’s treatment options and potential risks and benefits of DMTs.
– 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch break.
– 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Collaborated with the physical therapist to develop a personalized exercise program for the patient.
– 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Updated the patient’s electronic health record and documented the day’s activities.
Day 2:
– 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Reviewed the patient’s progress and discussed any changes in her symptoms.
– 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Observed the patient during a physical therapy session and provided support and encouragement.
– 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Participated in a team meeting to discuss the patient’s progress and coordinate her care.
– 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch break.
– 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Attended a lecture on the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis.
– 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Assisted in educating the patient and her family about the disease and its management strategies.
In conclusion, this week’s practicum experiences offered valuable insights into the assessment and management of patients with multiple sclerosis. It allowed me to further develop my clinical skills, deepen my understanding of the condition, and emphasize the importance of a patient-centered approach to care. Moving forward, I will continue to build upon these experiences to enhance my ability to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals with neurological disorders.
