Running head: CLINICAL EXEMPLAR

My Clinical Exemplar
Burgundi Curry
University of South Florida

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My Clinical Exemplar

A clinical exemplar is defined as a clinical situation that stands out, and is considered our
milestones of nursing. We recall these situations over and over, and overall it is a story that
describes our practice (Harvey & Tveit, 1994). I had the opportunity to work at Tampa General
Hospital for my nursing clinical. The hospital has many different specialties such as cardiology,
neurology, and gastrointestinal. I was able to work on a medical-surgical unit that specialized in
GI surgeries. I enjoyed working on that unit because I was able to practice skills, utilize critical
thinking, and able to connect with patients. There I learned that not only will I take away
educational moments, but experiences I will never forget.
Patient Situation
I was taking care of a 58 year old female patient that had an open partial colectomy, and a
partial liver resection on September 1, 2015. As I was providing her with her morning
medications I noticed she refused her pain medications. She repeatedly stated she was not in
pain, and did not want them. I explained to her that if she feels any pain to let me know. Later
during the day I was in to perform a wound dressing. I noticed when I came in she was
grimacing. I asked her if she was in any pain, and she repeatedly said no. Her family stated she is
in pain, but does not like the medication. I asked the patient to explain to me what I could do to
better help the situation. She stated the pain medication she is currently on makes her nauseated.
I explained to her that I would contact the physician to see if they can either change the pain
medication or accompany it with nausea medication.
After speaking with the physician, he decided to add a nausea medication so she could
take her pain medication. The patient agreed to take both, and her pain was minimalized. She felt
better, and was glad I was there to assist her with her needs.

Conclusion

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A clinical exemplar tells a significant story that impacts you in such way that you never
forget. While taking care of the patient I knew something was wrong even though the patient did
not communicate with me. I realized I needed to investigate the situation, and I knew as a
nursing student that I needed to assess my patient and provide her with the best outcome. I will
always remember the patient because it made me use critical thinking skills, and really
understand the patients situation.

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Reference

Harvey, C., & Tveit, L. (1994). Clinical exemplars to recognize excellence in nursing practice.
Orthopaedic Nursing, 13(4), 45-53 9p.