Journal: Learning Plan – SOWK 465 – Field Placement II

My experience this week at the field placement with IHSS was both challenging and rewarding. Notably, the experience taught me numerous essential aspects about social work practice and medical assistance for seriously ill patients: Journal: Learning Plan – SOWK 465 – Field Placement II.

Key Experiences

Client Assessment and Reassessment

I managed to reassess a client with more than one health condition, seizure disorder and developmental delays. However, the scheduling of the reassessment was delayed due to the heavy caseload, which reflected the challenges social workers have in delivering services. This experience made it clear how crucial it is for social workers to have adequate time for case processing in addition to systematic documentation.

Collaboration with Family Members

I spoke to my client’s mother to get the needed information about the client’s living arrangements and health conditions. Speaking with her was very crucial because it helped me get background information on what the client required and the challenges she faced. Notably, I was able to learn how to handle delicate issues empathetically and respectfully. This ensured that the mother felt comfortable and appreciated in the discussion at all times.
Consulting the Supervisor

I had a discussion with my site supervisor about the ethical considerations of a care plan for the client, especially concerning g-tube feeding and dietary restrictions. My supervisor shared valuable advice on how to go about these complex situations while still advocating for the client’s rights and preferences. Again, this consultation put more emphasis on why it is necessary to seek help and guidance in situations that are challenging.

Learning Plan Tasks I Completed

The learning plan task I completed is Competency 1 no 4: SW Intern will consult with the supervisor on any challenging cases to obtain different perspectives. From this, I improved my decision-making skills.

What I Learned from the Week’s Experience

I was reminded of the unique importance of family systems in our work with clients. Doing this with family members is integral to seeing clients’ needs in a more complete sense. I also understood the significance of ethical decision-making in social work practice and how working with vulnerable populations leads to a need for ethical dilemmas.

What I Would Have done Differently this Week

I would have made more time for having structured assessments for clients and avoided slowdowns due to the caseload requirements. Going forward, I am going to designate a time for myself to make sure I am administering all assessments on time and not waiting until the last minute. This week, I did check in with my site supervisor regarding my tasks, and they advised me to continue writing about any ethical dilemmas that arise and reflect on a regular basis.

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Write a 1-page journal on your field experience for the week of 1.27.2025.

Client’s Notes: 

• My field placement place is IHSS
• Learning plan attached
• Case attached.
  

  Journal: Learning Plan – SOWK 465 – Field Placement II

Include in your journal:

1. 3 Key experiences you had
2. Which learning plan tasks you completed – The learning plan task I completed is Competency 1 no 4: SW Intern will consult with the supervisor on any challenging cases to obtain different perspectives.
3. What did you learn from the week’s experience
4. Write about what you would have done differently this week (hindsight is 20/20). Did you consult with your site supervisor about the tasks, and what were their suggestions for the future?