Personal/Professional Responsibility & Service Activities
- Service learning
- Social justice
Journal 3
Community
Site Reflection: Detroit Mercy College Dental Hygiene Clinic
On June 11, 2024, my experience was very
useful. During a community service session at the Detroit Mercy College Dental
Hygiene Clinic, I observed an interaction with a young child who was visiting a
dental clinic for the first time. The child was initially anxious and reluctant
to sit in the dental chair. However, I used positive reinforcement and engaging
communication to calm the child and make the experience pleasant. After I
finished cleaning the child’s teeth, he left the clinic with a smile and a new
toothbrush, excited about maintaining good oral hygiene. This episode
demonstrated the value of patient-centered care and the enhancement of
patients’ experiences through compassionate, customized approaches—especially
for young children, and anxious patients.
Our Core Values are the hallmarks of a
Mercy Education [1]. By understanding and addressing the child's fears with
patience and kindness, the team showcased a commitment to providing care beyond
physical needs, touching on emotional and psychological well-being. Engaging
with the community, particularly through outreach and care for vulnerable
populations like children, embodies the Jesuit value of service. The clinic’s
efforts to make dental visits less intimidating for young patients reflect a
dedication to serving others and making a positive difference in their lives.
I learned from this incident a key
competency in dental hygiene education; by adapting their communication and
approach to suit the child's needs, the dental hygienists demonstrated an
essential skill: the ability to provide individualized care that respects and
responds to each patient’s unique circumstances. My experience underscores
concepts discussed in community health courses, such as the significance of
early dental education and intervention. By creating a positive first dental
visit, the team helped to establish a foundation for the child's future oral
health practices, potentially reducing the likelihood of dental issues later in
life.
The meaningful incident at the Detroit Mercy College Dental Hygiene Clinic provided valuable insights into patient care and community health. To focus on patients’ individual needs while actively involving them in the treatment processes, promoting positive, long-term changes in health status [2]. To further develop and explore what I learned from this experience, I will participate in workshops and seminars focused on pediatric dentistry, patient communication, and community health. These will provide me with additional tools and techniques to enhance my ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care. Furthermore, obtaining certifications in behavioral management in pediatric dentistry or community health education will deepen my expertise and expand my skill set. I believe collaborating with schools and community centers to create and deliver oral health education programs for children and their families will strengthen community bonds and expand learning for all ages. This will help spread awareness and promote good oral health practices from an early age. Engaging with professionals from other disciplines will provide a holistic understanding of community health issues and enable me to address the broader determinants of health. Discussing my experiences with peers and mentors will provide diverse perspectives and constructive feedback, enhancing my learning process. Being active in dental hygiene and public health organizations will provide a platform to contribute to policy discussions and initiatives aimed at improving community health.
In conclusion, by taking these steps, I aim
to build on the knowledge and skills gained from my initial experiences,
ultimately enhancing my ability to address community health issues effectively.
This ongoing learning journey will enable me to contribute more meaningfully to
the well-being of the communities I serve, in alignment with different cultures
and community traditions.
Reference:
1- Core Values & Profile of the Graduate, educational resources are here to help teachers craft lessons and projects that emphasize our Mercy Charism, Catholic identity, and Critical Concerns. 2024. https://mercyedu.org/about/core-values/
2- Patient care philosophy, Detroit, Detroit
Mercy Dental Center, University of Detroit,2024 https://dental.udmercy.edu/programs/hygiene/.
(Describe
healthcare personnel characteristics associated with the Mercy and Jesuit
traditions)
The Mercy and Jesuit traditions in
healthcare have distinctive characteristics rooted in their respective
historical, spiritual, and philosophical foundations. Here are the key
healthcare personnel characteristics associated with each tradition, The Mercy tradition
in healthcare is inspired by the work of the Sisters of Mercy, founded by
Catherine McAuley in the 19th century. This tradition emphasizes compassion,
service to the poor and vulnerable, and holistic care. Characteristics of
healthcare personnel in the Mercy tradition include Compassion and Empathy Emphasis
on compassionate care and understanding patients' emotional and spiritual needs.
Commitment to providing comfort and support to those suffering.
Service to the Poor and Vulnerable, A
strong focus on serving the marginalized, impoverished, and underserved
populations. Advocacy for social justice and equitable healthcare access for
all. Holistic Care is attention to patients' physical, emotional, and spiritual
well-being. Integration of pastoral care and support services in healthcare
settings. Hospitality and respect create a welcoming and respectful environment
for patients and their families. Valuing the dignity and worth of every
individual. Community and collaboration work collaboratively with other
healthcare professionals and community organizations to improve patient
outcomes. Fostering a sense of community within the healthcare setting.
The Jesuit tradition, rooted in the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola, emphasizes education, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to social justice. In healthcare, this translates into several distinctive characteristics for healthcare personnel, Commitment to excellence and education that is Pursuing excellence in medical practice, and continuous professional development. Emphasis on evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. Social justice and advocacy for systemic changes to improve healthcare access and outcomes, especially for marginalized communities. Engaging in public health initiatives and policy advocacy. Holistic and person-centered care provides care that addresses the physical, emotional, spiritual, and social needs of patients. Encouraging reflective practice and self-care among healthcare professionals. A holistic approach to patient care that considers individual needs, contexts, and circumstances. Personalized care plans that respect patients' autonomy and dignity. Service and leadership which is encouraging healthcare personnel to be leaders in their fields and communities. Promoting a service-oriented mindset, with a focus on ethical practice and integrity.
Global Perspective is an awareness of global health issues and an emphasis on cultural competence. Encouraging participation in global health initiatives and partnerships. Integration of Both traditions healthcare personnel in institutions that draw from both Mercy and Jesuit traditions are likely to exhibit a blend of these characteristics: holistic, compassionate care, combining the compassionate, patient-centered approach of the Mercy tradition with the Jesuit emphasis on holistic care and intellectual rigor. Commitment to social justice is a strong focus on social justice, advocacy, and serving the poor and vulnerable, reflecting the core values of both traditions. Excellence in practice pursuing excellence and continuous learning in healthcare practice, as inspired by the Jesuit commitment to education. Collaborative community service which is fostering community engagement, in line with the communal and service-oriented aspects of the Mercy tradition.
In the end, healthcare personnel associated with the Mercy and Jesuit traditions are characterized by a deep commitment to compassionate, holistic, and socially just care, with an emphasis on excellence, continuous learning, and community service. These traditions together create a robust framework for delivering high-quality, ethical, and person-centered healthcare.
Reference:
· University of Detroit Mercy, Jesuit & Mercy Sponsors, 2024. https://www.udmercy.edu/about/mission-vision/religious-sponsors/index.php
· Sister of Mercy Hermanas Misericordia, Embodying
the Mercy of God for a better world, 2024. https://www.sistersofmercy.org/.
· Mercy International Association, The Story of Catherine McAuley, 2024. https://www.mercyworld.org/catherine/.
Identify and describe two Mercy AND two Jesuit charisms (or concepts) that recognize the value of the human person and the belief in a world that is inherently good. Next, describe how these concepts are connected to the Detroit Mercy mission and vision.
Compassion in the Mercy tradition
involves deep empathy and a proactive approach to alleviating the suffering of
others. This charism emphasizes understanding the pain of others and taking
concrete actions to help, thus embodying a profound respect for human dignity. Compassion
recognizes the intrinsic worth of every individual by responding to their needs
with kindness and care. It acknowledges the shared humanity and inherent
goodness in every person, striving to uplift and support them in times of
difficulty.
Service is a fundamental Mercy charism
that focuses on selflessly helping others, particularly those who are
marginalized or in need. This concept involves dedicating time and resources to
support the well-being and development of individuals and communities. It
underscores the belief that every person is worthy of dignity and respect. It
reflects the inherent goodness of the world by fostering a sense of
responsibility to care for others, thereby creating a more just and compassionate
society.
Cure personals is a Jesuit concept that
emphasizes personalized care and attention to the unique needs of each
individual. It involves nurturing the intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and
physical well-being of people, ensuring their holistic development. Cura personals
value the whole person, recognizing their individuality and potential. It
affirms the inherent goodness of each person by providing comprehensive support
tailored to their specific circumstances and needs. It involves a commitment to
continuous improvement, going beyond what is required to achieve a greater
positive impact. Seeking justice for all God's creatures,
especially the poor and marginalized. Working actively for and with the poor,
and being just as active in reflecting on God's presence in their work and
their relationships.
The
mission of Detroit Mercy emphasizes integrating the intellectual, spiritual,
ethical, and social development of our students, and social development,
reflecting cure personal. By focusing on the holistic development of
students, the university ensures they are well-rounded individuals prepared to
lead with empathy and competence. The mission also highlights the importance of
service to the community, embodying the compassion and service charisms of the
Mercy tradition. Students are encouraged to engage in community service,
reflecting the institution’s commitment to social responsibility and care for others
Detroit
Mercy’s vision of being a premier private university underscores a commitment
to magis, striving for excellence in all endeavors. This ambition is aimed at
contributing positively to society, aligning with the Jesuit call to use one's
talents for the greater good.
Connection to the Detroit Mercy mission and
vision is deeply rooted in the charisms of both the Mercy and Jesuit
traditions, creating an educational environment that is inclusive,
compassionate, and committed to excellence, which includes creating a diverse
and inclusive community, resonating with the compassion charism of the Mercy
tradition. By promoting an environment where every individual is valued,
Detroit Mercy lives out the principles of inclusivity and respect for the
inherent worth of every person.
In the end, the University of Detroit Mercy’s mission and vision are enriched by the charisms of both the Mercy and Jesuit traditions. These charisms guide the institution in creating a nurturing, inclusive, and excellence-driven environment that recognizes the value of each individual and believes in the inherent goodness of the world.
Reference
· Mission Accountability Self-Study The University of Detroit Mercy (prepared for CMHE campus site visit, March 12-14, 2017). https://www.udmercy.edu/about/mission-vision/
· Mission & Vision, The University of Detroit Mercy, 2024. https://www.udmercy.edu/about/mission-vision/
· Holy Name of Jesus School, Jesuit -Mercy Traditions, 2024 https://hnjschool.org/jesuit-mercy-traditions.