Macey Angerbrandt

Clinical Experience

NDSH

During my clinical experience at the NDSH, I observed staff consistently upholding patients' rights in various ways. To ensure patient safety, staff conducted regular checks and maintained secure environments. In terms of privacy, I saw staff always knock before entering patient rooms and conduct personal care or health discussions in private areas. Confidentiality was maintained through secure documentation practices and avoiding sensitive conversations in public areas. Additionally, patient information was only shared among authorized care team members. These actions demonstrated a deep respect for everyone’s dignity and legal rights while promoting a therapeutic and safe environment for recovery.
I enjoyed getting the opportunity to see how patients in the NDSH facility live their daily lives. They are able to maintain a structured routine, while allowing them to participate in activities of their own choosing. It was nice to see how each person interacts differently when put in a group setting.
My personal feelings and attitudes toward mental illness have evolved significantly over time. Growing up, mental health wasn’t openly discussed, and there were often misconceptions surrounding individuals with psychiatric conditions. As I entered nursing school and began learning more about the biological, psychological, and social aspects of mental illness, my understanding deepened. Clinical experiences, especially in psychiatric care settings, helped me develop empathy and reduce any lingering bias. I began to view patients not by their diagnosis, but as individuals with unique stories, challenges, and strengths. My current attitude is grounded in advocacy and a strong belief that mental health is just as vital as physical health.
Mental health and mental illness are closely related but represent different states of emotional and psychological well-being. Mental health refers to a person’s ability to cope with life’s stresses, maintain relationships, and function effectively in daily activities. It is a dynamic state that can fluctuate depending on life circumstances, support systems, and self-care practices. In contrast, mental illness involves diagnosable conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia that significantly impair an individual’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. While everyone may experience emotional distress at times, the line between mental health and mental illness is crossed when these feelings become persistent, severe, and interfere with one’s ability to carry out normal daily tasks, maintain relationships, or ensure personal safety.
My first day experiencing the NDSH I met many individuals with many different backgrounds. I spent my first day on the L200 unit, which includes the patients committed by court order with previous, or current, criminal charges. Most have a history of sexual misconduct or violent behavior. There was one that has a violent history and is required to have a 1:1 sitter. He has made progress in the time he has spent here but does exhibit some behaviors when he isn’t able to participate in activities he wants to do. Overall, all the patients worked well together.
I enjoy allowing myself time to do things alone and with friends. I often go to the gym, but I also enjoy just downtime to spend doing random things. I often spend time with friends and my boyfriend. I value quality time greatly in my day to day life.

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