I can do this: a student's experience of life-limiting conditions
Salford University child health student Ryan Jones, a finalist from the NCYP Student Voice competition, tells us his experience of nursing a terminally ill child.
The first child I cared for on my first placement was a two year old who didn’t have another two years left.
It took me some time to become adjusted to that idea and I felt a plethora of emotions, from sadness and confusion to anger and helplessness.
Support from peers, lecturers, mentors and my mum, a nurse, has been invaluable in helping me to adapt to these new situations.
'How do you deal with children dying?' is a question I get asked a lot. The answer is I cherish and value the time I spend with them.
Treasured privilege
Being a part of a child’s last few months is a privilege and I try to make their time as enjoyable and carefree as possible, even if this means wearing a princess crown while completing observations or singing along to Frozen.
Before I began the course, I questioned my capability. I wondered if I would be able to console a distraught parent, persuade a cautious child to take medication and write essays while on practice placement.
I have recently entered my second year, still with a level of uncertainty, but with a definite conclusion that I made the right decision and will do my uttermost to get hold of the holy Nursing and Midwifery Council pin and finally upgrade my uniform.
