As I entered my final weeks at Christ House for my LIA, I continued to build on the relationships I had established with both the residents and the staff. While my clinical responsibilities remained limited due to my role as a volunteer, I focused on deepening my understanding of the residents' unique needs. This ongoing engagement allowed me to appreciate the complexities of their medical and personal circumstances, giving me a new perspective on what healthcare looks like outside of traditional structures. Working at Christ House has highlighted the importance of adaptable and compassionate care. The residents often come from backgrounds where access to healthcare has been inconsistent, and their medical needs are intertwined with social and psychological factors. This experience has shown me that healthcare is not just about treating symptoms or conditions in a sterile, clinical environment; it's about understanding the broader context of a person's life and providing care that meets them where they are.
In addition to my duties in the nurses’ station and during meals, I facilitated a second educational workshop, this time focusing on bleeding and shock management in prehospital settings. Given the potential for these emergencies among individuals experiencing homelessness, I felt it was crucial to equip the staff and volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively. The workshop covered key topics such as identifying signs of hemorrhage and shock, applying immediate interventions, and understanding when to escalate care to emergency services.
Reflecting on my experiences over these past weeks, I realize how much I’ve grown, both professionally and personally. The opportunity to step outside traditional healthcare settings has broadened my perspective, and I feel more equipped to approach my future medical career with a deeper sense of empathy and understanding. As I look ahead, I’m eager to continue supporting the residents at Christ House and exploring new ways to contribute to their care.