I started my capstone experience on the med/surg unit and also worked with nurses in the ICU when there were ICU patients. The nurses that I worked with on these two units were wonderful to learn from. They helped me to gradually increase my patient loads each day to the point of being able to take on multiple patients at once. Because MHCC is a small hospital, I had a wide variety of patients that I took care of and now feel more confident in my patient care. I was also able to refine my physical assessment skills and become more comfortable giving daily patient care.
I spent the second half of my capstone in the ER and absolutely loved it! I had the best staff to work with and learn from. The pace in the ER can be hectic, but so exciting! I have really been able to take charge of what I have learned and put it into practice. I have also learned so many new things while being in this department. This was the best place for me to be able to practice some of my nursing skills, such as starting an IV, because of the number of patients I saw in one day. My time in the ER has made me come out of my shell as a nurse and gain confidence in myself and the care I give.
My time spent at MHCC has been the best kick-start to my nursing career. All of the book knowledge that I have acquired in school is coming together as I apply it to real-life situations. All of the staff at MHCC have helped me to grow as a nurse and as a person. This capstone has given me renewed passion for nursing and has prepared me for the next step on my path to becoming the nurse I am meant to be.
