Module 1.2 – Discussion Four Patterns of Knowing Instructions: Reread Case Study

Module 1.2 – Discussion
Four Patterns of Knowing
Instructions:
Reread Case Study at the end of Chapter 1 in the textbook.
Reflect and think of a situation from personal practice in which multiple ways of knowing were used.
Post the anecodote iIn your own words.
Read the comments from your classmates.
Please respond to at least two (2) of your classmate’s postings.
Compare and contrast your own professional philosophy from the two (2) classmates.
To begin the discussion, click on the “Create Thread” link above.
Janeth Rodriguez
1.2 Discussion
COLLAPSE
Through my work, the four ways of knowing are used whether we are conscious of it or not. An example that comes to mind is a patient that I received in the ED. The patient was a 27-year-old male who came in with a complaint of testicular pain for the past several months. The patient told me he was recently homeless and had a history of drug use. Due to the pain, the patients’ blood pressure increased. In the end, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. He did not want us to notify any family members that he was there.
I used empirical knowledge by assessing the patient, his vitals, and his pain. I used the 1-10 pain scale to appropriately medicate him and relieve his pain. I incorporated esthetic knowledge by communicating with the patient and allowing him to express himself to me and his reasoning for not wanting his family members to know. I was able to empathize with him. I made him aware that I was there if he needed to talk, or I could find him a social worker if he preferred. Through personal knowledge, I noticed that the patient was extremely tense because of the pain he was in. I found ways to encourage distraction, for example, I dimmed lights and turned on the Tv. Even though the patient had a prior history of drug abuse I advocated for my patient to receive an opioid pain reliever. I used ethical knowledge by not allowing his history of drug abuse or my own personal beliefs to withhold pain medication. I also adhered to ethics by complying with his wishes and not notifying his family.
Milay Morales Lazo
Case Study of Chapter 1
COLLAPSE
Patient M.G., a 71-year-old Hispanic woman, was admitted to the hospital after she fell on the stairs of her home. Ms. G. lived alone and had no family nearby. His only son lived in New York and due to problems of his work he could not be present during the admission process in the hospital. During the admission assessment, the patient was oriented in terms of time, place and situation. However, she forgot to say all the medications she was taking. She only remembered the insulin that was injected daily into the area of her belly. She was very nervous and worried about the fall she had suffered.
During her stay in the hospital, my team group and I always take care of her. I offered her emotional support and tried to calm her down. It was evident that she was worried and nervous about what had happened to her. Our team explained to Ms. G. all the procedures that were going to be done with her consent and she understood and accepted them. Protective measures were also explained to prevent future falls during her stay in the hospital and then at home. It was implemented to place the bed in a low position. Have the room lit up. Raised the two side rails during the rest period. Get up slowly to avoid dizziness due to a drop in blood pressure and the use of non-slip footwear.
In this scenario, empirical knowledge was put into practice by the team group, since during the admission of the patient the evidence-based practice served as a guide. Fall prevention interventions were implemented to prevent future falls.
Regarding personal knowledge, as a nurse, I had unique experiences with the patient and also, put into practice the learning of previous practices. Our group always worked together to provide the patient’s quality care.
Esthetic knowledge was also addressed, providing comfort to the patient and emotional support, as she felt lonely and nervous. Her only daughter was far from her. So as a nurse it was vital to provide companionship and support throughout the recovery process.
Finally, ethical knowledge was put into practice. Respectful care was provided to the patient throughout the hospitalization period. All the procedures were well explained, and the group of nurses made sure that Ms. G. understood everything, since no family member was present with her and that she felt good and safe.
References
McEwen, M., & Wills, E.M. (2019). Theoretical bases for nursing (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.