What key information did I teach? How did it go?
The Teach-back method is one of the literacy tools that ensure patients understand different health instructions (Schillinger, Piette & Grumbach, 2003). I used the method to teach my patients about the importance of the best health practices. Two of my patients were suffering from obesity. I informed them about some of the best methods to control their weights. I encouraged them to avoid certain food materials such as sugars and fats. I also encouraged them to exercise frequently and consume a lot of water. During the exercise, I encouraged them to share their weaknesses and strengths. I also informed them about the best diets to control obesity. The patients learned much about the importance of proper medications and physical activities. The third individual was my close relative. My relative was suffering from diabetes. I educated him on the importance of using the best ideas to control his blood sugar. I also answered most of his questions. I informed my patient about the dangers of consuming certain compounds like sugar, alcohol, and salt. I also involved my friends and other patients to give them the best motivation and encouragement. This practice explains why my teach-back method was successful.
How did the individuals respond?
After completing the teach-back method, I decided to examine how the individuals responded to the practice. My patients responded effectively to the teach-back method. However, my patients asked only a few questions. One of them did not listen attentively. The patients also shared their feelings and ideas with their relatives, parents, and friends. According to Polifko-Harris (2009, p. 47), “every patient wants to have a better life”. Although the patients appeared disoriented and uncertain at the beginning of the practice, it was possible to guide, mentor, inform, and empower them to achieve the targeted gains. However, some form of miscommunication occurred during the exercise. I will these insights to achieve the best results in my future practice.
How I felt like a nurse
The most admirable thing is to provide the best support and care to every patient (Schillinger et al., 2003). My philosophy as a nurse is to provide evidence-based and informed services to my patients. The teach-back method is an interdisciplinary nursing practice that ensures nurses and caregivers promote the wellness of their patients. This exercise made me feel complete and contented. It feels awesome after providing the best support and ideas to a patient. After conducting the exercise, I observed that my patients were ready to lead better life. This has become my new source of encouragement. I will always use this method to guide and help my patients. I am grateful because the method will make me a competent practitioner who meets the unique needs of different patients.
What I would do differently next time?
The teach-back method is a wonderful experience for Registered Nurses (RN). After completing the exercise, I have gained new ideas and insights towards the best learning process. My patients responded well to the ideas and information provided to them. This experience has widened my skills and concepts. However, I would consider improving my practice in the future. For instance, I will encourage my patients and respondents to document new ideas and information. This will be appropriate for patients and individuals who can do so. As well, I will ensure the strategy focuses on the unique problems affecting my patients. I also observed that my patients were afraid to ask questions. The other important thing is to encourage the patients’ guardians and parents to be part of the teach-back method (Zuzelo, 2009). Finally, I will always conduct the exercise in a comfortable and private environment. This will ensure my patients are relaxed and confident. I will also encourage them to use simple and friendly words. I will use this new strategy to record better results.
Did using the teach-back method feel like extra work?
It is appropriate for every nurse to be involved and dedicated. Before undertaking the exercise, I changed my mindset and focused on the best goals and objectives. My goal was to support and help my targeted patients. I was ready to provide the best concepts and ideas to the individuals. This explains why the teach-back method was effective for me. The method did not feel like extra work. I managed to address the unique needs and problems of my patients (Polifko-Harris, 2009). I will always use this method to guide and support my patients.
Did the teach-back method uncover any miscommunication?
Miscommunication occurs when there is a barrier at the workplace. This occurs when nurses do not communicate effectively with their patients. As well, the targeted patients might not get the intended message or information due to misunderstandings (Zuzelo, 2009). I provided new ideas and concepts especially after uncovering any miscommunication. I analyzed most of the comments from my patients to identify any miscommunication. I was able to provide the best insights and guidance to my patients. In conclusion, I will always use the teach-back method because it will make my nursing philosophy complete.
Reference List
Polifko-Harris, K. (2009). The Practice Environment of Nursing: Issues and Trends. Cengage: Cengage Learning.
Schillinger, D., Piette, J., & Grumbach, K. (2003). Closing the loop: Physician communication with diabetic patients who have low health literacy. Achieves of Internal Medicine, 163(1), 83-90.
Zuzelo, P. (2009). The Clinical Nurse Specialist Handbook. New York: Jones & Bartlett Learning.