A Day In The Life Of A Nursing Assistant - Day Therapy
Carol Simpkin has been a nursing assistant working in the Day Therapy Unit for eighteen years and she describes a typical working day.
My day begins with a staff discussion about patients who are expected to attend that day. It is important for us to be aware of any changes in patients’ situations. During this part of the morning, the telephone is busy as people call to check appointments, transport arrangements, rearranging appointments and so on.
I work closely with the band of volunteer drivers who provide transport for patients to and from the unit. For patients who are unable to drive themselves, or have friends or relatives able to give them a lift, the volunteers provide a vital service.
I welcome patients as they as they begin to arrive. Some are anxious, particularly if it is their first visit; I keep a very careful eye out for this and will provide reassurance and some encouragement where necessary. My job involves promoting independence where appropriate but to also be there to support and assist patients as needed.
I am writing this on Thursday, on this day the group of patients is quite young. During the day, patients may attend a range of activities depending on their needs and wishes, for example, some will see one of the doctors, others will have a complementary therapy, work on a computer, do some artwork, or see the physiotherapist. My role includes coordinating the various requests.
Some patients prefer to sit quietly or simply talk with fellow patients. People do get a lot of comfort and support from this and this kind of friendship is encouraged. After lunch, many patients just spend time at the tables chatting to each other; a bit like being in a restaurant.
During my eighteen years here, I have become skilled in noticing when a patient needs to talk to someone other than another patient. Much of my working day consists of listening carefully to what patients have to say. Patients will sometimes tell me about matters that are important to them whilst I am helping them with other things. Often we will talk about the issue or it may need the attention of one of the qualified nurses or doctor.
The patients leave for home at around 3 pm but the work is not over. It is then that we update patients’ records and contact GPs / district nurses to provide them with relevant information about their patients.
Day Therapy is a happy, lively place where people are having a good time and feel safe. One patient told me recently that she felt that she is really listened to when she comes to the unit.
My job is rewarding in so many ways. Sometimes, a patient may arrive feeling unhappy, anxious, or distressed but leave feeling happier and with a smile on their face. This might be because they have shared a joke with someone, rearranged a clinic appointment, seen the doctor about a symptom, had a therapy, or discussed something that has been worrying them. Seeing people go home more content and comfortable is what gives me great satisfaction and has enabled me to work here for as long as I have.
Posted: 24-01-2012 15:45:00
