Nursing capstone project: specialty focus and professional contributions

¶ … Rhythm interpretation

My project on the need for ongoing education of CLC nurses on heart rhythm interpretation relates to previous material from the course because of its focus upon continuing education as a critical aspect of improving high-quality care for patients. Rhythm interpretation is far from an intuitive skill and is inadequately addressed by most nurse's initial educational efforts. Experience is an important component of improving rhythm interpretations and a continuing education course provides nurses with a 'safe space' to work on this skill without affecting patient's lives while they are still learning. Knowledge about this area of practice is constantly evolving and keeping abreast of new developments is essential. As noted in the introduction to one online continuing education course: "the [electrocardiogram] ECG is a valuable diagnostic tool for the healthcare provider whether they are a doctor, nurse, or specialist in cardiac rehabilitation. Understanding the ECG enables the healthcare provider to respond correctly and to treat dangerous and potential deadly arrhythmias as quickly and efficiently as possible" (Thomas 2010). Furthermore, learning about new ways of treating heart conditions can affect how patients are treated. "It is important to understand the mechanisms, cutting edge treatments and to know exactly what needs to be done to treat these deadly arrhythmias. New drugs and high tech equipment which can cardio-vert, defibrillate, and serve as a pace maker are constantly being evaluated and introduced into the healthcare system" (Thomas 2010). Heart conditions can be extremely individualized and different patients can present different superficial symptoms, making the ability to make correct rhythm interpretations essential.

As a nursing professional, the project is significant because it also underlines the need for institutional support of nursing as a profession, in terms of both money and time. Although both can be in short supply in the modern healthcare environment, they can prove to be worthy investments for the nurse as a healthcare professional and also for the institution in terms of improving patient safety. However, institutions must be willing to offer support to nurses to do so given the difficulties of balancing school and work obligations.