Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Research Papers



Research papers have never been my favorite type of paper to write.  Research papers must be written in order of certain steps and there are many important features that a research paper must have in order to be clearly and effectively understood.  As someone who sometimes having problems with becoming motivated, I would rather sit down with a blank piece of paper and begin writing, and then go back and edit my work.  Following the steps of a research paper is somewhat of a challenge for me.
 One should first look at different topic options and choose a topic that is of interest to themselves and their readers.  If the writer is not interested in the topic they choose, it will be hard for them to portrait the information in an interesting way to their reader.  I sometimes will use Google in order to find a topic that interests me.   Once a topic has been chosen one should begin researching their topic and taking notes of the important information.  It is important to make sure that the source material is accurate and reliable.  As a student at JCHS, I use the library’s homepage through blackboard in order to find scholarly resources.   Once one has gathered their information they may want to write an outline before beginning their rough draft.  It Is important to give credit whenever you use quotes or citations.  Within the body of the research paper citations should be in APA format.  JCHS students can find resources on how to write in APA format in the student central section on blackboard. 
As a college sophomore, I hope that with experience over the next 2 ½ years that my ability to write research papers with expand and I will learn to enjoy it more.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Communication



Communication is important in any business, including healthcare.  Communication within health care involves many different people such as health care providers (physicians, nurses, nursing assistances, physical therapies, etc.), the patient, family members, insurance, pharmacist, vendors, and the list goes on.  In order to give the patient the best care that they deserve, communication must be clear.  Patients need to understand what is going on, and feel as their needs have been met.   Patients are more likely to refer a friend if the staff members that they encounter within a facility communicate to them with passion and knowledge.  

For example, I believe that good communication begins before the patient even step food inside of a facility.  When a patient calls to make an appointment they should understand what the appointment is for, who they will be seeing, any pre-op measures they need to take, where the facility is located, and so on.  Once a patient arrives at a facility they should be able to easily find where they need to be, signs should be clear and understandable, and greeters should answer any directional questions they might have.  Once finding their destination, the receptionist should give them any pre-appointment paper work and assure them of the wait time.  Once they have been registered, the nurse should thoroughly understand why the patient is there and relay the information to the physician.  Once the physician makes a diagnosis they should make sure that the patient understands completely and answer any questions that the patient may have.  The patient should feel as though they have been treated by helpful and caring staff.

As a current hospital employee I am able to understand both sides of the patient role.  I currently work in the Central Service department of the OR.  Our department must make sure that our communication with the OR is clear in order to properly have the instruments and supplies needed for the patient to have a successful surgery. 

When I have to go to the doctor myself, I look for a facility that knows what they are doing and care about their patients.  If I have a negative experience I am not likely to see that physician again.  Recently I have had very positive experiences with the different Carillion facilities that I go to as a patient.

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Introduction



My name is Stevee Shelor and I am a sophomore in the nursing program at Jefferson College of Health Science.  After high school I took some perquisites at New River Community College before I transferred to JCHS this past fall.  I knew for certain that I wanted to become a Nurse after taking a Certified Nursing Assistant course in high school.  My first job as a CNA at a nursing home reassured my passion for helping others and my desire to become a nurse.  I have always loved helping others and making a difference, and I believe that nurses are able to touch so many lives.  I am not completely sure which field of nursing I will pursue.  I have worked for Carilion Clinic for a year and a half, and am thankful that I am able to experience healthcare in the hospital environment. I am looking forward to our nursing school clinical rotations and the chance to further my horizons in the nursing field. I am excited about the many career opportunities that will be available once I complete my nursing degree.  


In my “free time” I enjoy spending time with my two puppies, Noel and Belle.  I am a very proud Aunt of two beautiful nieces and an adorable baby nephew.  I also love to spend time with my church family and am very involved in many different activities within the church.  My “me time” normally involves crafting; knitting, sewing, painting, etc.  I also enjoy cooking and trying new recipes when I have the time.


I am very excited about this semester and I am looking forward to all that it will entail.