Example Journal Entry — Practicum Experience Time Log and Journal Template

Example Practicum Experience Time Log and Journal Template

Student Name:
Email Address:
Practicum Placement Agency:
Preceptor’s Name:
Preceptor’s Telephone:
Preceptor’s Email Address:

Time Log
Instructions:
List the objective(s) met and briefly describe the activities you completed during each time period. If you were not on-site during a specific week, indicate “Not on-site” in the total hours column. Journal entries are due in Weeks 4, 8, and 11; submit your Time Log with all hours (for both current and previous weeks) included.

You are encouraged to follow a consistent schedule for completing your practicum hours to ensure you meet the requirements by the END of WEEK 11.

Time Log

Week

Dates

Times

Total Hours for This Time Frame

Activities/Comments

Learning Objective(s) Addressed

1

“Not on-site”

Admissions, evaluations, follow-ups, medication management, psychotherapy

Mini-Mental State Examination, CAGE, Beck Depression Inventory

Admissions, evaluations, follow-ups, medication management, psychotherapy

Intake assessments, Mini-Mental State Examination administered

Total Hours Completed: 16

Journal Entries

Client Information
Demographics:
An 18-year-old Black male living in Smithfield, NC, with his parents. He speaks English as his first language and attends high school. His family is middle-class, with both parents employed in white-collar jobs in Raleigh, NC. The client is covered by his parents’ health insurance under Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Presenting Problem:
The client reports frequent irritability and a short temper. His teacher has noted his involvement in fights at school, while his mother mentioned he refuses to do chores and bullies his younger siblings. His parents are concerned about his aggressive behavior, poor academic performance, and his frequent disciplinary issues at school.

History of Present Illness:
The client’s parents reported that the behavior began at age 7, but they initially dismissed it as a phase. As he entered adolescence, they believed it was part of growing up. However, the behavior persisted, including bullying siblings and frequent school fights. He has been transferred to different schools due to his inability to follow rules and his tendency to cause harm during fights. Teachers also report his inability to concentrate and poor academic performance. His parents note he is uncooperative at home, frequently ignoring requests to help with chores.

Past Psychiatric History:
There is no history of psychiatric hospitalizations or diagnoses. However, at age 12, the client was taken to a psychiatric clinic due to difficulties in forming relationships, irritability, and fighting at school and home. At the time, no formal diagnosis was made, and the family was referred to family therapy and psychoeducation, which showed some improvement. No medication was prescribed as therapy appeared to be effective.

Diagnosis:
Based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the client presents with symptoms consistent with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). The behavior includes persistent irritability, defiance, and aggression, both at home and school, with evidence of worsening symptoms over time.

Treatment Plan:
Although pharmacological intervention is not indicated at this time, ongoing behavioral therapy is recommended. Treatment will focus on improving the client’s emotional regulation, communication skills, and family dynamics. Additionally, psychoeducation for the parents will be crucial for understanding how to manage his behavior at home.

Legal and Ethical Implications:
Special concerns arise due to the client’s age and potential harm to others. The family and school must be involved in creating a safe environment while addressing the underlying behavioral issues. Ethical considerations include respecting the client’s autonomy while ensuring the safety of others.

References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.
Tramontin, M. (2010). Exit Wounds: Current Issues Pertaining to Combat-Related PTSD of Relevance to the Legal System. Developments In Mental Health Law, 29(1), 23–47.

This template has been designed to guide advanced practice nursing students through the process of documenting their practicum experiences while connecting them to relevant nursing theories and evidence-based practices.