Running head: BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 5

BSN Student Learning Outcome 5:

Engage in Reflective Practice Concerning Professional Nursing.
Megan J. Stucki
Dixie State University

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Abstract
What is reflective nursing practice? And why is it necessary? These questions will be
explored in this short academic paper. Study of the need for continuous self-reflection as well as
the benefits to patient and nurse will then be carried out.

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BSN Student Learning Outcome 5:

Engage in Reflective Practice Concerning Professional Nursing.
Reflection or the ability to self-examine is an important aspect of improving nursing
practice. It is a learned skill, worthy of exploration and implementation. It may not come as
easily to some as it does to others. This may be attributed to the fact that reflective nursing
practice, as with other skills, requires conscious effort, time and patience. When mastered, this
skill produces a twofold benefit; to patient as well as the nurse practicing it.
Reflective Nursing Practice
Jackson (2011) explains reflective nursing practice as the skill of making sense of work
experience. To be effective, this process must be ongoing. Caldwell (2013) notes that this type of
practice is a continuous cycle in which experience and reflection on experience are interrelated. During this cycle the nurse must review or reflect upon their actions and determine if
they were constructive, affected a positive health outcome for their patient, and/ or facilitated
professional growth.
Developing a Reflective Nursing Practice
What I have achieved by industry and practice, anyone
else with tolerable natural gift and ability can also achieve.
- Johann Sebastian Bach
A desire to continually grow and learn is a natural catalyst to this process. Continual
growth requires action. With concerted effort the full benefit comes to fruition. A nurse cannot
simply think of their clinical practice, pros or cons, and then not implement change. Conscious
effort and time to reflect on previous action is the facilitator of future change.

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Self-reflection requires an attitude of openness and humility--for we are, after all, only
human and mistakes are a natural part of life. This fact speaks to the need of an ability to accept
constructive criticism. This criticism may come from self, co-workers or management. As
Johann Sebastian Back noted, talent stems from work and practice. Imagine if this classical
composer would have allowed every insult or every incorrect piano key stroke to stop him. He
wouldnt have reached excellence in his chosen field and we wouldnt be able to enjoy the fruits
of his consistent practice today.
Benefits
As previously stated, reflective nursing practice benefits both nurse and patient. Nurses
who participated in a study on reflective practices stated that it helped them view clinical
situations from varying viewpoints; identify their specific learning styles, in addition to
improving decision making skills (Caldwell, 2013). These nurses also mentioned a greater
degree of accountability and sense of responsibility in their clinical nursing practice. All of these
factors are essential for professional development.
A nurse who is striving to improve her practice will become aware of areas that are
lacking, seek to better her practice in these areas and inevitably provide better patient care.
Simply stated, the benefits to patient are improved, holistic care from a nurse and medical team
that hold that patients well-being and health care choices in high regard--in short, the patient
achieves a better state of health.
Conclusion and Future Nursing Practice
Reflective practice develops awareness. With this awareness the nurse becomes a more
efficient team member and strives to continuously improve her practice. This awareness
perpetuates the cycle of reflective practice, which benefits patient and nurse. Reflective nursing

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practice is essential for novice and seasoned nurses alike. It aids in the development of best
practices, proactivity, and confidence. This in turn allows the nurse to become more comfortable
in their duties, recognize achievements and provide optimal care (Caldwell, 2013).

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References
Caldwell, L., & Grobbel, C. (2013). The importance of reflective practice in nursing.
International Journal of Caring Sciences, 6(3), 319-326. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/1445366551?accountid=27045
Jackson, M. (2011). Reflective practice in nursing. Nursing Management, 18(4), 13. Retrieved
from http://search.proquest.com/docview/876643347?accountid=27045