The neurology department in Helen Hayes Hospital is where I was assigned as an occupational therapist. I was a graduate nurse back then and required clinical assistance in carrying out the assigned tasks. However, during my education, I have been taught about the risk factors that are associated with a patient and the strategies that could be implemented to better the medical condition of the patient. I was assigned under a male patient who was involved in a car accident and gravely injured below the hip area. He was unable to walk and required external support while walking after the surgery had been conducted. In addition, the patient was seated in a wheel in the initial phase such that much needed rest is provided to the muscles. It was my responsibility as an occupational therapist to ensure the physical stability of the patient and improve the muscular strength of the patient. Hence, I planned, as an occupational therapist, to devise light exercises such that his muscular strength is regained.
However, because of my inexperience and being a graduate therapist, I was really anxious and nervous while devising the action plan. I was extremely nervous because of which I kept on thinking if I would commit a mistake and cause harm to the patient. I tried to let the patient walk with the support of a ZeroG by SaeboReach. It lets the individual get fastened by a belt to the tension road attached to the ceiling and lets the patient walk as appropriate. I fastened the belt with the ceiling rod and attached it with the body of the patient to start with the procedure. However, because of nervousness, I attached it loosely with the body of the patient and because of the inability of the patient to hold the grip, control the posture and the fine motor coordination, the patient fell to the ground and screamed in pain. It was my absolute horror because the patient was in pain and felt extreme discomfort during the massaging procedure. It was my inability to fasten the belt securely with the tension rod and the patient which created distress in the condition of the patient.
After critical evaluation of the mistake that is committed by me, I understood that if I would have worked under the supervision of a senior occupational therapist in the hospital and had more confidence in dealing with a critical patient, it would have been generating a positive health outcome for the patient. The only good thing about the exposure was that I got to understand my practical skills and acknowledged my strength and weakness during the procedure. After the patient complained of discomfort, I immediately informed the physician on charge of the patient. This was necessary as they would be administering the medication to the patient in an event of emergency. Despite me being anxious and nervous, it was a good thing that I thought critically and informed the senior medical healthcare professional. Thus, it can be concluded that this real and practical experience in the neurological department of the hospital ensured me in acknowledging the strength and weakness. In addition, it helped me in understanding the areas where I should be paying enough attention by which the health condition of the patient is not compromised.
