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Competency: K-1 Maternal/Newborn Nursing

Subcategory: K-1-2 Demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy and
physiological changes during pregnancy.

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One significant learning experience in this course was learning about

all the physiological changes that come with pregnancy. An example
of this would be during the third trimester, some physiological
changes we might see would be swelling, weight gain, lordosis,
vaginal discharge, hip swaying, shortness of breath, and/or polyuria.
I learned about the different physiological changes and which changes
we can expect at different stages of pregnancy. This is meaningful
because as a nurse, we must be aware of the changes our patients will
be going through in order to educate them on what to expect as well as
what we can expect to see. I also think it is meaningful because all of
these changes happen for a reason and learning about not only the
changes but why they happen is important to know in order to
understand how our bodies work, pregnancy, and all the changes that
come with it.
Using the proficiency categories I believe I would be fair, as I have
a good understanding of the theory of the competency but I havent
been able to apply it to nursing practice as of yet. In order to achieve
the understanding of the theory, I went to class, and studied to ensure I
had a good understanding of these changes, as I believe they are very
important to be aware of.
I will apply this competency in my future nursing practice by being
aware of what pregnant women can expect, and why, which will allow
me to provide teaching for them. I will also be able to explain to
patients why they may be experiencing some of the changes they are
going through and to assure them that it is a normal part of pregnancy.
I think this is very important because pregnancy can be a scary time
for many, so being able to put patients minds at ease as much as
possible, and preparing them for things they can expect
physiologically may help to make the pregnancy process easier for
them by making them better prepared.

Student Name: Jennalyn Lefebvre

Course: NFDN 2004
Date: April 11, 2016
Instructor/Tutor: Shelly Dugas