n this mid-course entry into your Nurse E-Portfolio for this course, you will be exploring how you feel about vulnerable populations. Using the e-portfolio format, answer the following questions. Make
Nurse E-Portfolio Mid- Course Entry
Discuss your experience with a vulnerable population
Vulnerable population refers to people who are economically disadvantaged including
racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, low-income children, the elderly, the homeless, those
affected by immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) and those with other chronic mental conditions,
(Vulnerable Populations: Who Are They? 2006). There are also other people like those in rural
areas who are unable to access health care services. Having worked in the same setting for 15
years, it gives me a lot of satisfaction in realizing that I have been giving these people help when
they needed it most. It gives a satisfaction to give one help when they are in need. It has been a
rewarding experience because it gives satisfaction
Describe the experience and how you felt about it
I have been working in a hospital where I have met all sorts of people who are,
unfortunately, affected by different kinds of diseases. Their ages have also been varied because I
work with the Float pool section of the department. This somehow sees me go to different
nursing floors in the hospital. Each time I set foot in that hospital is different from the previous
for the reason that it is characterized by admissions and discharges. Feeling a sense of care, I
always try to give my best to those in need throughout their stay at the hospital. I have to admit
that it begs for empathy in helping fellow human beings.
Some people need more help than others, depending on their health situation. One denominator
though is that these people need help and I am happy to be there for them, whatever their
circumstances.
Do you think your feelings will influence the type of care you provide, if so, in what ways?
I do think that how a caregiver feels will influence the type of care one gives. It should not
be the case though. The care that we give should be based on professionalism and unbiased. It
should be devoid of favoritism but based on equal care to all. It should be ethical, validating the
care and transforming the vulnerable person. I do, therefore, subscribe to the notion that our
emotions and feelings as caregivers should not influence the type of care we give.