Kelsy Dannenberg

Reflective Journal
Week 2
Week #3: Evaluate the effectiveness of the care given using the nursing process and modify
care for clients accordingly.
Critical Thinking
How did I use problem-solving to adapt nursing care as clients health condition changes?
I used my critical thinking this week during medication administration. The patient had 3 BP
medications scheduled for his HTN. Before administering the medication, the pts BP was
assessed and it was lower than the last reading and very close to the criteria to hold the
medications (Hold for HR < 50, SBP <= 100). The primary nurse was in the room with me and
we decided it was best to hold the medication because it wouldve decreased his BP and he was
already at lower levels. We wanted to avoid additional problems and the judgement call was to
be safe rather than sorry.
If the patients BP were to spike back up and he were to become hypertensive, I would assess
his BP and depending on the time, administer a dose. If it was close to his next scheduled HTN
medications, then I would administer them. If I had concerns or was unsure, I would call
pharmacy and depending on that call, I would call the MD.
The pts BP remained stable after his medications were withheld. There were no further
complications. I used my problem solving skills of holding the medication to adapt to the pts
change in health condition of lowered BP.