Before starting our research, I knew that birth control was correlated with the formation of blood clots but I was unsure as to why or how. As 4 women in this class, we chose this topic because we felt like it effected all of us. When we began to dive into our PICOT question, looking at the research, we discovered that there was much about birth control that we didn’t know. Our research has thought us that the use of combined oral contraceptives increases someone’s risk in developing blood clots. This risk though is effected by what hormones are used, how many, pregnancy, and any history of developing clots (MI, stroke, PE). I guess I could say that my appraisal and synthesis has changed by assumptions, but I didn’t have many assumptions to begin with. I feel like my assumption is just reinforced. Through my appraisal and synthesis, I feel like I’ve learned a lot regarding hormonal birth control and it will positively impact my future role as a nurse. I can now educate patients more effectively about the negative effects of birth control. Specifically, I can provide better teaching for those with a history of blood clots, educating them on risks and which birth controls have the lowest risk. My team members and I have reached the same conclusion I believe. I say this based off our conversations about the topic and our new understanding of it. Team SeaDogs has worked well together so far. The biggest issue I’ve seen is finding the time and place to meet up together. Half the group lives in Portland, with one member not driving, another in Biddeford, and I live in Auburn. I’ve found that not having class during our schedule time helps with this as we all have that block of time free. Another challenge that we have faced is fully understanding what the assignment is asking of us. Some are stronger writers than others, so sometimes it takes us a moment to make sure we are all on the same page with an assignment.