Vsim Rashid Ahmed

How did the simulated experience of Rashid Ahmeds case make you feel?

After completing the simulation for Rashid Ahmed, I gained a feeling of confidence. Compared to the Sara Lin scenario, I believe this one was more in depth when it came to providing actual nursing care to the patient. I was able to use assessment skills in order to identify problems with Mr. Ahmed. This simulation also caused me to think more in depth about how to provide proper care that would be beneficial to the patient.

Talk about what went well in the scenario

I believe this scenario had many different aspects to it, although this scenario was more challenging, I believe Mr. Ahmeds case was more useful in helping me learn how to identify specific signs and symptoms that could be correlated to other issues. Such as, when testing Mr. Ahmed for dehydration, I noticed his skin turgor was tenting indicating dehydration. This caused me to further investigate his mucous membranes as well as his intake and output. I believe this scenario was incredibly useful in learning how to correlate signs and symptoms.

Reflecting on Rashid Ahmed’s case, were there any actions you would do differently if you were to repeat this scenario? If so, how would your patient care change?

If I were to repeat this scenario, I would have taken more time to educate Mr. Ahmed on the importance of hydration and noticing signs of dehydration. I feel like being able to identify these signs and knowing the correct ways to prevent dehydration could have benefited Mr. Ahmed.

What priority problem(s) did you identify for Rashid Ahmed? What information led to identification of the priority problem?

The first priority problem I identified for Mr. Ahmed was dehydration. Upon assessment I noted minimal intake and output, his urine was a dark yellow, indicating dehydration. I also noted his skin turgor was poor, and tenting. As I further investigated I examined dry mucous membranes in both his eyes and mouth. Because Mr. Ahmed exhibited signs of muscle weakness, tachycardia and nausea, a blood and urine test was performed and identified a secondary problem, hypokalemia. I was able to confirm this through his results which show his electrolytes were lower than usual.

What potential problems could arise if the identified fluid and electrolyte imbalances are not corrected?

Many problems could arise if Mr. Ahmeds fluid and electrolyte imbalances were not corrected. Mild side effects could include dehydration, fluid imbalance, cracked lips and poor skin turgor. Severe side effects could have caused acidosis and even kidney failure if not treated properly.

Identify the rationale for weighing Rashid Ahmed at the same time each day wearing the same clothing

The rationale for weighing Mr. Ahmed at the same time each day while wearing the same clothes was to get his most accurate weight. By doing this, his providers were able to identify if he was gaining or losing any weight.

Identify potential patient safety issues

Due to Mr. Ahmeds severe dehydration and abnormal potassium levels I would identify Mr. Ahmed as a fall risk. Other potential safety issues could include fatigue, due to minimal intake which could also potentially cause dizziness. Another safety issue I identified is Mr. Ahmeds pain, this could alter Mr. Ahmeds understanding for future discharge instructions.

Describe how you would apply the knowledge and skills that you obtained in Rashid Ahmeds case to an actual patient care situation

I believe this simulation was incredibly beneficial in learning how to identify signs and symptoms of dehydration. If I were to apply the knowledge and skills I obtained from this simulation and use them in an actual patient care situation, I would know that many specific assessments need to be performed before coming to a nursing diagnosis. From this simulation, I learned how to identify signs such as; skin turgor, dry mucous membranes, dark/minimal urine output and how to read electrolyte labs. If I were to be caring for a patient who had similar signs and symptoms as Mr. Ahmed, I would know what to look for and how to identify if a patient is dehydrated or not.