Overall, my experience on the Palliative unit at PRHC was definitely an unforgettable and different experience for myself. Although throughout this placement, I began to realize that palliative is not for me since I became uncomfortable with the death and dying process, I still had an amazing experience. Sometimes, it just takes being exposed to a situation to realize that you do not want to do this in the future. Even though I knew death and dying was a huge part of palliative, I chose this placement to hopefully become comfortable with the process. Although I realized this was not for me, I have found a passion in being able to take care of patients in their last few weeks, days and even minutes. Being able to take care of these patients is what makes these memories most cherishable to myself. I feel as though I am honored in being able to take care of these patients, and their families.

 

I have definitely developed a great ability to build rapport and maintain relationships throughout this placement, and this is a skill I will take with me throughout my years as a nurse. During this placement, I had time to be able to sit and learn about patients and their families. Frequently, I would sit and talk to the patients as well as go to patients rooms and help them if they needed help. I was always eager to find something to do. During this placement I also was exposed to some patients who were pursuing MAID (medical assist in dying) for their diagnosis. Here, I have provided a link, if you are wanting to learn more. (http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/maid/docs/maid.pdf).

 

Throughout the semester I have done an in/out cathetor, I have used the bladder scanner, several subQ injections through a subQ lock, put in subQ locks and more! Thank you to the palliative staff, my fellow nursing students as well as my clinical instructor teaching me everything I need to know about palliative.