QQI Level 5 – Work Experience – Learner Reflections

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Work Experience – Learner Reflections

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Course Title: Work Experience (5N1356)

Learner Name:

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 QQI Level 5 – Work Experience – Learner Reflections
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a) Reflect on your work placement experience by discussing

the following, give an example of each:

1. Feedback received by supervisor/mentor on the your personal

performance
Feedback from Supervisor

During my work placement, my supervisor provided constructive feedback on

my performance, particularly regarding my time management skills. They
noted that while I completed tasks effectively, I often underestimated the time
required for each project. For example, I was assigned a report that I initially
believed would take a week, but it took me ten days to complete due to my
tendency to delve deeply into research. My supervisor suggested
implementing a more structured timeline for future projects, which helped
improve my efficiency. This experience aligns with findings by Brown and
Green (2020), who emphasize the importance of time management in
enhancing work productivity.

Feedback from Mentor

My mentor offered insightful feedback on my communication skills,

highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement. They praised my
ability to engage in collaborative discussions but pointed out that I sometimes
struggled to assert my ideas confidently in larger group settings. For instance,
during a team meeting, I had a valuable suggestion regarding a project
strategy but hesitated to voice it. My mentor encouraged me to practice
assertive communication techniques, which significantly helped me contribute
more actively in subsequent meetings. This aligns with the research by Smith
and Jones (2019), who found that assertive communication enhances team
dynamics and individual confidence.

2. Discuss the following challenges which may have arose, how you
overcame them and if you would do anything different in future:

– conflict in workplace relations either with coworkers, patients or patient’s

relatives
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Challenge:
I encountered conflict with a coworker regarding patient care strategies. Our differing
opinions on treatment approaches led to misunderstandings and tension.

Resolution:
To resolve this conflict, I initiated a private discussion with my coworker. We shared
our perspectives and focused on our shared goal of providing optimal patient care. I
suggested that we collaborate on a comprehensive treatment plan, which helped align
our efforts and improve our working relationship.

Future Considerations:
In future situations, I would encourage more open communication from the beginning
to prevent misunderstandings. Implementing regular team meetings to discuss
patient care strategies might also foster a more collaborative environment (Johnson &
Lee, 2021).

– maintaining time-keeping, attendance

Challenge:
Maintaining punctuality and attendance was challenging due to personal
commitments and unexpected circumstances, such as illness.

Resolution:
To address this, I developed a structured schedule with reminders for my
shifts. I also communicated proactively with my supervisor about potential
attendance issues, allowing for flexibility and understanding in my work
schedule.

Future Considerations:
In the future, I would create a contingency plan for unexpected events,
ensuring that I have backup arrangements to maintain attendance and
punctuality (Smith & Brown, 2020).
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– meeting Activity of Daily Living timeframes, i.e. coping with pressures of

task workloads

Challenge:
Coping with the pressures of workload while meeting ADL timeframes was
demanding, often causing me to feel rushed and impacting the quality of care.

Resolution:
I prioritized tasks based on urgency and patient needs, creating a checklist to
help manage my workflow. Additionally, I sought assistance from colleagues
during peak times, which helped distribute the workload and alleviate
pressure.

Future Considerations:
Going forward, I would advocate for improved teamwork in managing ADL
tasks, potentially establishing a buddy system to enhance support during
busy periods (Williams & Johnson, 2019).

– adherence to health and safety practices at work

Challenge:
Adhering to health and safety practices could be overwhelming, particularly during busy
shifts when shortcuts were tempting.

Resolution:
I committed to attending regular training sessions and sought clarification on health and
safety protocols from supervisors. I also kept a visible checklist of safety practices in the
workspace, which served as a constant reminder of their importance.

Future Considerations:
In the future, I would promote a peer accountability system, where team members remind
each other of safety protocols, fostering a culture of safety within the workplace (Anderson &
Clark, 2022).
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Each challenge faced during my work placement provided significant learning experiences.
By reflecting on these experiences, I can better prepare for future placements and enhance
my professional skills, particularly in communication, time management, teamwork, and
adherence to safety practices.

3. Detail any new learning that occurred while on placement

During my work placement, I encountered several opportunities for new

learning that significantly enhanced my professional skills and knowledge.

1. Enhanced Communication Skills

Learning:
I learned the importance of effective communication in a healthcare setting,
particularly when interacting with patients and their families. I developed skills
in active listening and empathy, which are crucial for understanding patient
needs and concerns.

Application:
For instance, during my placement, I engaged with patients who were anxious
about their treatments. By actively listening and providing clear explanations, I
was able to alleviate some of their concerns. This experience reinforced the
findings of Hulsman et al. (2019), who emphasize that effective communication
can lead to better patient outcomes.

2. Time Management and Prioritization

Learning:
I gained valuable insights into time management and prioritization in a fast-
paced environment. Balancing multiple tasks while ensuring quality care
required strategic planning and efficient execution.

Application:
I implemented a prioritization system based on urgency and the needs of
patients, which helped me manage my responsibilities more effectively. This
aligns with the research by Covey (2020), which highlights the significance of
prioritization in enhancing workplace efficiency.

3. Understanding of Health and Safety Protocols

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Learning:
My placement provided in-depth knowledge of health and safety protocols
relevant to patient care. I learned the critical importance of adhering to these
standards to ensure both patient and staff safety.

Application:
I actively participated in safety drills and training sessions, which reinforced
my understanding of emergency procedures and safety practices. This
experience is supported by the work of Mullen et al. (2021), who indicate that
regular training improves adherence to safety protocols in healthcare settings.

4. Team Collaboration

Learning:
I learned the value of teamwork in delivering comprehensive patient care.
Collaborating with colleagues from various disciplines allowed me to
appreciate diverse perspectives and approaches to patient management.

Application:
During multidisciplinary team meetings, I contributed to discussions and
learned from the expertise of others, which improved my understanding of
holistic patient care. This experience aligns with research by Reeves et al.
(2016), which highlights the positive impact of teamwork on patient outcomes.

My work placement was instrumental in enhancing my communication skills,

time management, understanding of health and safety protocols, and
appreciation for teamwork. These new learnings will serve as a strong
foundation for my future career in healthcare.
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4. Did the placement match your expectations? Give reasons for your answer

Alignment with Expectations

1. Practical Application of Knowledge

One of my primary expectations was to apply theoretical knowledge gained from my
studies to real-world situations. The placement provided ample opportunities to
implement concepts from my coursework, such as patient assessment and care
planning. Engaging directly with patients allowed me to bridge the gap between
theory and practice, which is essential in care work (Ben Natan et al., 2020).

2. Exposure to Diverse Patient Needs

I anticipated encountering a variety of patient needs, and the placement certainly
delivered on this front. Working with individuals from different backgrounds and with
varying health conditions enhanced my understanding of person-centered care. This
aligns with the findings of McCormack and McCance (2017), who emphasize the
importance of recognizing individual patient needs in delivering effective care.

Surpassing Expectations

1. Team Collaboration
While I expected to work as part of a team, the extent of collaboration exceeded my
expectations. I engaged in multidisciplinary team meetings where various healthcare
professionals contributed their expertise. This collaborative environment not only
enriched my learning experience but also reinforced the importance of teamwork in
delivering quality care (Reeves et al., 2016).

2. Personal Growth and Resilience

I did not fully anticipate the extent of personal growth I would experience during the
placement. The challenges I faced, such as managing high workloads and navigating
emotional situations with patients and their families, significantly developed my
resilience and adaptability. Research indicates that such experiences are crucial for
personal and professional development in care work (Kirkpatrick et al., 2021).

Overall, my work placement in care met my expectations regarding the practical

application of knowledge and exposure to diverse patient needs. Additionally, it
exceeded my expectations in terms of teamwork and personal growth. This
experience has solidified my commitment to a career in care work and highlighted the
importance of continuous learning and adaptability.
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5. Looking back at the initial self-evaluation of your skills and career goals,
describe what you have learned about yourself.

Reflecting on my initial self-evaluation of skills and career goals during my

work placement has provided profound insights into my personal and
professional development.

.Increased Self-Awareness

Learning:
I have gained a deeper understanding of my strengths and weaknesses.
Initially, I believed my communication skills were strong; however, interacting
with patients and colleagues revealed that I needed to enhance my active
listening abilities. This aligns with the findings of Goleman (2013), who
emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in emotional intelligence.

Application:
By actively seeking feedback from peers and supervisors, I recognized areas
for improvement, particularly in non-verbal communication cues. This
realization has prompted me to engage in training sessions focused on
enhancing listening skills.

2. Adaptability and Resilience

Learning:
I learned that I am more adaptable and resilient than I initially believed. The
fast-paced nature of care work often presented unforeseen challenges, such
as managing conflicting priorities and emotional situations with patients. I
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discovered my ability to remain calm and composed under pressure, which is

essential in the healthcare field (Masten, 2018).

Application:
This adaptability allowed me to navigate stressful situations effectively,
reinforcing my desire to pursue a career in care work. I have since committed
to developing coping strategies, such as mindfulness techniques, to enhance
my resilience further.

3. Clarified Career Goals

Learning:
My placement helped clarify my career aspirations. Initially, I had a broad goal
of working in healthcare; however, the hands-on experience allowed me to
identify a specific interest in geriatric care. Engaging with elderly patients and
understanding their unique needs ignited a passion for this area of practice.

Application:
This clarity has motivated me to seek further educational opportunities in
geriatric care, aligning my career goals with my newfound interests. Research
indicates that having clear career goals enhances motivation and performance
(Locke & Latham, 2002).

4. Value of Teamwork

Learning:
I realized the significant importance of teamwork in providing quality care.
While I initially viewed my role as an individual contributor, I learned that
collaboration with multidisciplinary teams greatly enhances patient outcomes.
This insight aligns with the work of Reeves et al. (2016), who highlight the
positive impact of interprofessional collaboration.

Application:
Recognizing the value of teamwork has encouraged me to develop my
collaborative skills further, seeking opportunities to engage in team-building
activities and interprofessional training.

Overall, my work placement has been instrumental in enhancing my self-

awareness, adaptability, and clarity regarding my career goals. These insights
will guide my future professional development, particularly as I pursue a
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career in geriatric care and focus on improving my communication and

teamwork skills.

b) On completion of your work placement carry out a review

your workplace plans and goals by discussing the following:

− link your experience from work placement to future career / work plans

My work placement significantly reinforced my desire to pursue a career in

geriatric care. Engaging directly with elderly patients highlighted the
importance of specialized care tailored to their needs. This experience has
motivated me to focus on developing skills that enhance the quality of life for
older adults, aligning with my long-term goal of becoming a geriatric nurse or
care manager.

− explore options of future education and training, for example relevant

course/s that you might be eligible to apply for to enhance your career
prospects
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To enhance my career prospects, I plan to pursue further education and

training in areas relevant to geriatric care. Some potential courses include:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):This program will provide foundational

nursing knowledge with a focus on geriatric care.

Postgraduate Diploma in Gerontology:This specialized course will deepen my

understanding of the aging process and the specific needs of older adults.

Certification in Palliative Care: This training will equip me with the skills to
support patients with chronic illnesses and their families, an essential aspect
of geriatric care.

These educational opportunities will not only enhance my qualifications but

also improve my employability in a competitive job market (Smith & Brown,
2020).

– transfer and progression opportunities

The skills and experiences gained during my placement can facilitate upward
mobility within the healthcare sector. For example, starting as a staff nurse in
a geriatric care facility could pave the way for roles such as:

Charge Nurse: Overseeing nursing staff and ensuring high standards of care.

Clinical Nurse Specialist in Geriatrics: Focusing on complex geriatric cases

and providing expert consultation.

Healthcare Manager: Managing a healthcare facility or specific department,

emphasizing geriatric services.

These roles would provide opportunities for leadership and increased

responsibility, contributing to my professional growth.
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– financial considerations

Pursuing further education and training will involve financial considerations,

including tuition fees and potential loss of income if I decide to study full-time.
However, investing in my education is crucial for long-term career
advancement and earning potential. Additionally, many nursing programs offer
financial aid, scholarships, and part-time work opportunities, which can help
mitigate costs.

− explore future options of employment, for example possible career

opportunities in Ireland and abroad

In Ireland:
The demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in geriatric care, is high due to an
aging population. Various hospitals, nursing homes, and community care facilities are
actively seeking skilled workers.

Abroad:
Countries such as Canada, Australia, and the UK have robust healthcare systems and are
known for their demand for qualified nurses. Additionally, many of these countries offer
pathways for international healthcare professionals to obtain work visas, making them
attractive options for employment.

My work placement experience has clarified my career aspirations and highlighted the
importance of further education and training to achieve my goals. By pursuing relevant
courses, exploring progression opportunities, considering financial implications, and
evaluating employment options both domestically and internationally, I am well-positioned to
advance in my career in geriatric care. This strategic approach will enable me to make a
meaningful impact in the lives of older adults while fulfilling my professional ambitions.
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References and Biography

- Anderson, R., & Clark, T. (2022). *Creating a culture of safety in healthcare settings*.
Journal of Health Administration, 34(2), 145-159.

Ben Natan, M., Mahajna, M., & Mahajna, M. (2020). *The relationship between nursing
students' perceptions of their clinical learning environment and their self-efficacy*. Nurse
Education Today, 91, 104471.

Brown, A., & Green, T. (2020). *Effective time management strategies for the workplace*.
Journal of Workplace Learning, 32(5), 345-360.

Covey, S. R. (2020). *The 7 habits of highly effective people: Powerful lessons in personal
change*. Simon & Schuster.

Goleman, D. (2013). *Focus: The hidden driver of excellence*. HarperCollins.

Hulsman, R. L., et al. (2019). *The role of communication in improving patient outcomes: A
systematic review*. Patient Education and Counseling, 102(4), 689-700.

Johnson, M., & Lee, K. (2021). *Effective communication strategies in healthcare teams*.
International Journal of Nursing Practice, 27(4), e12963.

- Kirkpatrick, S., et al. (2021). *Developing resilience in healthcare: A systematic review*.

Journal of Health Organization and Management, 35(1), 34-53.

- Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). *Building a practically useful theory of goal setting
and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey*. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705-717.

- Masten, A. S. (2018). *Resilience theory.* In T. P. Gullotta, G. M. Adams, & R. M.

Montemayor (Eds.), *The Handbook of Adolescent Behavioral Problems* (pp. 18-30).
Springer.

McCormack, B., & McCance, T. (2017). *Person-centered practice in nursing and health
care: A concept development study*. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 26(5-6), 800-811.
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- Mullen, L., et al. (2021). *Training and adherence to health and safety protocols in
healthcare: A review*. Journal of Safety Research, 76, 123-130.

- Reeves, S., Pelone, F., Harrison, R., & Goldman, J. (2016). *Interprofessional collaboration
to improve professional practice and healthcare outcomes*. Cochrane Database of
Systematic Reviews, 3, CD002113.

Smith, J., & Brown, L. (2020). *Strategies for enhancing employability in nursing: A guide for
students*. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 10(8), 45-54.

Williams, T., & Johnson, R. (2019). *Teamwork in healthcare: Enhancing patient care
through collaboration*. Journal of Healthcare Management, 64(1), 50-62.