Labs and Practice

We did intramuscular injections this weeks in the practice labs. It was hilarious, but I'm a bit nervous about my first practice on a person because of the greater risks.

I've selected the visit with J* to write about in detail as N* got me to lead the assessment. We turned up and J* was int he shower. N* had mentioned that she believed J* had a cultural view of pregnancy as an illness and that her approach to her pregnancy experience reflected this.

We spoke to J*'s husband about his job and their preparations for the baby. He commented that they have a strong family network. They also plan to purchase baby equipment in one shopping excursion. R* said that he might be able to get two days off a week when baby arrives. R* then went to bed as he works a night shift job.

Starting on the assessment I was quite nervous. I knew about the palpation, blood pressure and urinalysis but was worried I wouldn't remember all of the appropriate questions. I recalled to ask about sleep, movements, iron. We definitely covered those and exercise, antenatal education, support networks, bowel and bladder function, pain in her legs.

I'll have to check the notes for the blood pressure reading. On palpation her uterus was very firm. I was mentally fascinated in comparing her abdomen to the previous client who was also at 30 weeks. J* was big for dates and on palpation N* assessed size on palpation at 32 weeks.

Blood pressure and urinalysis were both satisfactory. J* has been advised about hydrotherapy and exercise classes to relieve thigh pain but hasn't attended any. I suggested that is J* knew someone who was pregnant she could attend classes with a friend. N* mentioned that for hydrotherapy women could wear just a t-shirt and shorts and that if desired the hospital could provide swimsuits.