Reflection on Practicum Experience Including Accomplishments and Challenges MSN 6025 Assessment 5 Practicum and Social Justice

During my practicum experience focusing on overweight autistic teenagers, I encountered accomplishments and challenges in improving their health outcomes. One of the significant accomplishments was developing personalized care plans that addressed each individual’s specific needs and challenges (Flaherty & Bartels, 2019). By collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, I contributed to developing holistic interventions that integrated medical, behavioral, and nutritional approaches. These personalized care plans aim to promote weight management, enhance overall well-being, and support the unique characteristics of autistic teenagers.

Another accomplishment was establishing rapport and trust with overweight autistic teenagers and their families. Building a strong therapeutic relationship was essential in understanding their concerns, motivations, and barriers to achieving optimal health (Walls et al., 2021). Through active listening and empathy, I fostered open communication, which allowed for a deeper understanding of their experiences and perspectives. This, in turn, facilitated effective collaboration and shared decision-making.

However, I also encountered challenges in my practicum experience. One significant challenge was addressing the limited availability of resources and support services tailored to overweight autistic teenagers. The lack of specialized programs and interventions made it difficult to provide comprehensive care (Evans et al., 2022). To overcome these challenges, I engaged in advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the unique needs of overweight autistic teenagers and the importance of tailored interventions. I collaborated with stakeholders to explore potential partnerships, secure funding, and develop innovative solutions to bridge the gaps in care.

I also encountered challenges navigating cultural differences and ensuring fair and equitable care. Cultural norms and expectations vary among different cultural groups, requiring me to continuously educate myself and seek guidance from colleagues and mentors (Iheduru‐Anderson et al., 2020). To address these challenges, I actively engaged in ongoing education and training focused on cultural competence. I participated in workshops and seminars that provided insights into different cultural perspectives and effective communication strategies. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and seeking input from cultural liaisons and community resources proved invaluable in enhancing my cultural competence and addressing the needs of overweight autistic teenagers from diverse backgrounds.

Completion of Hours

Throughout my practicum experience, I completed the required hours towards my practicum experience by actively engaging in various activities related to improving health outcomes for overweight autistic teenagers. These activities included conducting assessments, developing personalized care plans, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and participating in educational initiatives. I also dedicated time to advocacy efforts, raising awareness about the unique needs of this population and advocating for equitable access to healthcare resources and services. By aligning my practicum hours with the principles of social justice, I aimed to address healthcare disparities, promote fairness, and advocate for the rights and well-being of overweight autistic teenagers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my practicum experience as a nurse working with overweight autistic teenagers has provided valuable insights into the complexities and nuances of healthcare delivery for this population. I have witnessed the transformative impact of maintaining appropriate standards of confidentiality, promoting social justice, and providing culturally competent care. Moving forward, I am committed to continuing my professional growth, advocating for equitable healthcare practices, and ensuring that the unique needs of overweight autistic teenagers are met with compassion, understanding, and respect.

References

Beach, M. C., Price, E. G., Gary, T. L., Robinson, K. A., Gozu, A., Palacio, A., Smarth, C., Jenckes, M. W., Feuerstein, C., Bass, E. B., Powe, N. R., & Cooper, L. A. (2022). Cultural competence. Medical Care, 43(4), 356–373. https://