Therapeutic Nursing Intervention

NUR 403: Career Pathway- Expanding Horizons

Purpose of the Assignment
The purpose of this paper is to define a clinical problem, review the literature for
appropriate research supported nursing interventions, critique current practice and
provide a plan for changing or adapting clinical practice.
Approach to the Assignment
This focus of this paper was to examine the contributing factors that led to a patient not
being properly treated for pain. This explored patient and staff education,
pharmacological interventions, and non-pharmacological intervention and how each
component is mandatory to adequate pain management.
Reason for Inclusion
This assignment was an assessment of pain management technique. This topic is ongoing
in the facility for which I am employed. It is a constant struggle to achieve adequate pain
management amongst the staff and patient population. There needs to be a true balance
between patient safety and patient satisfaction established.
Critical Thinking

Uses decision-making skills in making clinical or professional judgements.

In this paper, the proper way to assess pain is explored. According to Bon Secours policy
this standard is every four hours on every patient. Reassessment is to be completed one
hour post intervention. The necessity of critical thinking is imperative to assess for
potential over-sedation. An example demonstrated was the discontinuation of a PCA
pump.

Evaluates nursing care outcomes through the acquisition of data and questioning of
inconsistencies.

On the monthly patient satisfaction survey pain management during hospitalization is

evaluated. These scores have consistently remained low. This paper demonstrated

administrations effort to evaluate this data and implement change by instilling stricter
policy and performing chart audits of pain assessment.

Professionalism

Applies an ethical decision-making framework and legal guidelines to clinical

situations that incorporate moral concepts, professional ethics, and advocacy for
patient well-being and preferences.

This assignment educated me on the legal limits of patients not fully disclosing or
knowing their home medication. This is a noted common problem. It is vital to act as an
advocate for patient health. A nurse must establish trust and educate their patients on the
dangers of polypharmacy and over sedation.

Demonstrates accountability for ones own professional practice.

This exercise has taught me to be hyper-vigilant in my assessments and documentation and

to focus and be present while I am with each patient instead of mentally cataloging my to do
list.

Culture

Maintains an awareness of global environmental factors that may influence the

delivery of health care services.

This paper illustrates the effect that living conditions and availability of low cost methods
to control illness can have on a global community. Anexamplenotedincludedapoverty
strickenpatientthatwassofaradvancedinhisdiseaseprogression,therewasno
interventionalprocessestoofferotherthancomfortmeasures.

Considers the impact of research outcomes and the effects of health and social
policies on persons from diverse backgrounds.

Cultural norms explored for a patient of Indian background. His social policies instilled
his actions towards the health care provider. Because of this diverse background, cultural

respect had to be spoken on to influence him to be open to receiving the care necessary
for restoration.