Public health professional | Nursing homework help
Reflection of Practicum Experience
My practicum experience took place at a local community health center where I was able to observe and participate in various public health initiatives. During my time at the center, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of individuals, including patients, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Through this experience, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in providing comprehensive public health care services to a community.
I have applied the knowledge and theory I gained from my coursework in public health into practice during my practicum experience. For example, during a health education session, I applied my knowledge of the Health Belief Model to create a more effective health education session by addressing the patients’ perceived barriers, perceived susceptibility, and perceived benefits of the health behavior we were promoting. This helped increase the patients’ engagement and understanding of the topic.
One of the most important things I learned from my practicum experience is the importance of community involvement in public health initiatives. I observed firsthand how community leaders and patients were able to provide valuable insight into the needs and concerns of the community. This helped the health center to tailor their services to better meet the needs of the community and improve the overall health outcomes.
My practicum experience also helped me develop professionalism skills such as networking, team building, and communication. I was able to work closely with healthcare providers and community leaders, building relationships and collaborating on various initiatives. This experience allowed me to refine my communication skills and develop the ability to effectively communicate with a diverse group of individuals.
As a future public health professional, I have a personal mission to promote the health and well-being of communities by providing comprehensive and culturally sensitive health services. My core values include equity, compassion, and respect for diversity. I believe that these values will help guide my ethical decision making in public health by ensuring that all individuals have access to quality health care regardless of their background.
In conclusion, my practicum experience was a valuable learning opportunity that provided me with hands-on experience in the field of public health. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with a diverse group of individuals and to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in providing comprehensive public health care services. I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I have gained in my future career as a public health professional.
References
Health Belief Model. (n.d.). In National Cancer Institute. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/publications/health-communication/theories/health-belief-model
Siegel, M., & Rhoads, K. (2015). Public health nursing: Practicing population-based care. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.