Reflections on Nursing School: Lessons that Were or Were Not Useful
As a nursing professional, the lessons we learn in school can vary greatly in their usefulness, both during our careers and in the long-term. Some aspects of nursing education may seem less relevant at the time, but their value becomes apparent as we navigate our careers. This article explores some of the lessons from nursing school that may not have been immediately useful but ultimately prove significant.
Psychology Rotation: Common Sense Lessons
One of the less immediately useful lessons for many nurses is the psychology rotation. This rotation focuses on mental health, and while the skills and knowledge gained can be invaluable, it primarily requires common sense and practical application in real-world scenarios. Many nurses do not work in psychiatric settings, but the principles and approach learned can be transferable to other patient interactions.
The Ban of the Australian Lifting Technique
The Australian lift, also known as the drag lift, was a method used to move patients in bed. It involved two nursing staff supporting a patient's armpits and moving them along the bed. This technique was widely taught in nursing schools, but it has been banned by the NHS due to its potential risks to both patients and staff.
While learning this technique was standard practice in the 1970s, it became obsolete due to the risks it posed. In practice, the demand for two staff members to perform the lift was often not met, leaving the nurse performing the lift at risk of injury. Many older nurses today suffer from back and shoulder pain as a result of the widespread use of this unsafe technique.
The story of the Australian lift is a reminder that while some practices are outdated, the importance of patient safety and the well-being of healthcare professionals remains paramount.
Lessons from Uninteresting Subjects
There are many nursing school subjects that students find initially uninteresting, particularly if they are not interested in a specific area. Maternity care is one such topic; while some students are particularly drawn to it, others see it as a less appealing subject.
For many, these early experiences with uninteresting subjects can be frustrating. However, these lessons often become more relevant as time goes on. A nurse may find themselves unexpectedly needing to apply the knowledge from these subjects in their career. For instance, a nurse who felt indifferent to maternity care might later find themselves in a position where a maternal and fetal care unit is necessary, and the skills learned during that rotation become crucial.
Moreover, the ever-evolving nature of healthcare means that nurses must continually adapt and learn. Even the less practical subjects can contribute to a broader understanding of healthcare and patient care.
On the Importance of Ongoing Learning
Science and the world of healthcare are constantly changing. As a result, the lessons learned in nursing school are not the end of a nurse's education. The ability to adapt and learn on the job is a crucial skill in nursing. Even seemingly insignificant lessons, like learning the ballet, can sometimes be applicable in alternate forms of care, such as rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
From this perspective, what may seem like a waste of time or useless knowledge at the time can have significant value later in a nursing career. It's important for students to embrace a wider range of learning, even if it does not directly align with their immediate interests, as it can broaden their skillset and make them more adaptable professionals.