A Nursing Student's Reflection on Wound Care and Skill Development

This reflective essay documents a nursing student's experience providing wound care for a patient with a diabetic foot ulcer. The student discusses implementing aseptic techniques and providing patient education on diet and hygiene. The reflection highlights the student's strengths in infection prevention and procedure adherence, while also identifying areas for improvement, such as educating patients on self-dressing and considering the psychological impact of wound appearance. Peer input emphasized the importance of a friendly approach during wound care. The reflection concludes with identified learning needs, focusing on self-dressing education and addressing the psychosocial aspects of patient care, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning in nursing practice. Desklib provides a platform for students to access similar solved assignments and past papers.

Reflective essay on wound care
 Personal experience
I am a nursing student. I was posted in the medical ward and assigned to a patient with a
diabetic foot ulcer. My patient was 52yrs old admitted with the complaints of the unhealed
diabetic wound in the ankle of the right foot. As per doctors' orders wound care needs to be
provided to the patient twice daily. The wound was open and covered with debris. Wound
foul smelled. I provided wound care with a strict aseptic technique.
 Strength and areas need to be improved
As a nursing student, I implemented the aseptic technique and personal protective equipment
which is considered to be my strength. I ensured the prevention of infection for the patient. I
followed the right procedure for wound care. I gave health education for the patient about
protein-rich diet, diabetic diet, increased fluid intake and personal hygiene. I need to educate
on self dressing and wound care for the patient.
 Input from peers
As it was my first experience, I was not confident in providing wound care and dressing. My
peers assisted and helped me in performing my nursing duties. My peers also educated me
and provided more information on wound care. My fellow staff stated that reacting to the
appearance and foul smell of wounds may affect the patient psychologically. So, they advised
me to talk with the patient in a friendly manner during wound care.
 Learning needs
Learning is continuous in nursing practice. As a nursing student, I am aware of the Aseptic
technique and I implement the same. I have learned many important aspects of the above
incident. I have learned to educate on self dressing and wound care for the patient which can
improve the patient’s confidence and recovery. I have learned to consider the psychological
and social factors associated with the patient's condition.