Nursing Reflection

Going back through previous experiences and tracing back the footsteps we have made allows us to reminisce about the good things that have happened in our lives. Somehow the undesirable memories would also seep in as they are part and parcel of our existence that we cannot do away with. This process gives us an opportunity to encounter past events that can necessarily aid us in the future. In the Nursing practice, reflection is a retrospective approach that evaluates historical processing of experiences that takes place in a structured form and is deemed highly essential (Eliis, Kenworthy and Gates, 2003, 156). In the clinical practice, this retrospective activity facilitates in the promotion of quality care. The art of reflection however in the nursing practice focus on self rather than on the situation as the care provider (Quinn, 2000, 252). The process is a reflective practice that is a cognitive act by which we are allowed to make sense of our thoughts and memories (Taylor, 2000, 43). This method therefore allows a practitioner to generate a complementary or alternative form of knowledge and a set of choices in the evaluation of the best course of action. It is a â€Å"deep learning† experience that reflects on our knowledge and theories and go beyond merely thinking about what we do but involves recalling what had occurred and analyzing the situation by interpreting important information recalled (Taylor, 2000, 4). In Nursing, the reflective process is aimed about our own practice (Taylor, 20000, 3); that nursing education and research cannot do without as a common practice in the learning mechanism in which we all engage in a regular basis (Slevin and Basford, 2000, 483). With a main purpose of enabling the practitioner to learn from experiences and increase clinical effectiveness, reflection is highly essential to the nursing practice. For this process to be effective, Johns has provided a guided reflection which employs different models of self-inquiry to enable a practitioner to realize desirable and effective practice (2002:3). Considering that this involves a cognitive and emotional component that is expressed through analysis, different models would aid us feel comfortable about the activity. John’s model can be used in preparation for or during clinical supervision and applicable to specific incidents rather than more general day to day issues and particularly applicable to those who prefer a structure approach (Ellis, Kenworthy and Gates, 155). Gibbs Model use term description rather than â€Å"a return to the entire experience† as a form of reflection is considered as a simpler method but one where a mentor or facilitator is likely needed(Davies, Bullman and Finlay, 2000, 84). Both models however in supervision practice can be used to facilitate clinical governance through the promotion of quality care where an exchange between two professionals employing this technique seeks to improve their practice (Watkins, Edwards and Gastrell, 2003, 266). To maximize the potential benefits of clinical supervision, nurses have to learn to be comfortable with this retrospective activity with the aid of Gibbs or John’s models depending on where one feels most comfortable working with (Ellis, Kenworthy and Gates, 156). Gibbs Model for reflection As a simple and easily attainable method, Gibbs model uses term description rather than a return to a previous experience (Davies, Bullman and Finlay, 84). In psychology and teaching, reflection facilitates as purposeful change and competencies such as psychological-mindedness and self-regulation (Clutterback and Lane, 2004, 196). Usually this process involves a mentor, teacher or supervisor working with a student at different stage while allowing for individuality. Although less specific than re-evaluating an experience; Gibbs in his cycle or reflection makes the action planning a more overt component of reflection (Davies, Bullman and Finlay, 84). Gibbs provides that in one’s own practice, an essential aspect of working as an autonomous practitioner involves a critical analysis of one’s role and responsibilities from a personal perspective (Gibbs, 1998,13). It is a process that requires others to become involved that encourages feedback and constructive comment to recognize your role and value in a health team (Humphris and Masterson, 2000, 77). John’s Model for reflection John’s model uses the concept of guided reflection to describe a structure supportive approach that helps the practitioner learn from their reflections and experiences (Quinn, 2000, 572). The approach involves the use of a model of structure reflection, one-on-one group supervision and the keeping of a reflective diary (Quinn, 572). The practice would aid the practitioner in learning from a reflection of their experiences. John’s model is more detailed as it provides a checklist of specific points necessary for reflection (Davies, Bullman and Finlay, 85). The only problem cited with John’s model if it imposes on a framework that is external to the practitioner leaving little scope for inclusion as cite by other theories. John’s model can be used in preparation and during clinical supervision consisting of 6 steps that is applicable t specific incidents rather than more generalized day to day issues facing the supervisee (Ellis, Kenworthy and Gates, 155). This model is highly attractive to those who prefer a structured approach but others may find this type more restricting (Ellis, Kenworthy and Gates, 156). Criticisms against the reflective process Reflection involves cognitive and emotional components that are expressed through analysis and to maximize the potential benefits of the clinical supervisor nurses have to learn to feel comfortable with this retrospective activity both during and in preparation for supervision sessions (Ellis, Kenworth and Gates, 157). This could be deemed time–consuming in an institution where time is often an important element in the delivery of care. A time for reflection can be done positively only when a situation or a need arises. This is probably why reflection method is considered a radical approach to nursing education and practice given the ample time training can afford (Slevin and Basford, 483). Yet reflection is valuable if done in partnership with someone else which led Davies et al to believe that the approach is quasi-therapeutic (Davies, Bullman and Finlay, 86). The principles have been transferred directly from client-centered psychotherapy and may trigger more powerful responses such as guilt and anxiety. Practitioners are therefore evaluated before they are given a chance to try this one out according to conservative studies. However with practice, it is assumed that a reflective process may not hold as much negative impact for the learned practitioner in an answer to the demands for a continuous review of a practice in a critical and analytical manner that support the reflective concept. The Value of Reflection for the Student Nurse As an essential component of scholarly practice, reflection, reflection is a method for generating a complementary alternative form of knowledge and theory (Humphris and Masterson, 2000:78).   Regardless of any negative criticism a reflective method may elicit from critics, I consider this to be a valuable tool. For the student, this is a process were one internally examines and explores an issue of concern triggered by an experience that clarifies the meaning of perspectives (Canham and Bennett, 2001, 185). The nursing practice has been surrounded by a world of silence and reflection is a way for nurses to reflect that is enhanced and introduced in the nursing curriculum (Guzzetta, 1998, 102). Often in the professional practice, nurses have encouraged silence among themselves in their health environment and setting while usually developing a shared professional voice with her team. Oftentimes, her relationship with the rest of the health team and other professionals faced difficult efforts because of the autonomy. The process of reflection allows one to air out her sentiments and ideas within her group or to a mentor or a supervisor during moments of reflection that could be produced as a shared voice for the team. Developing a habit of reflection is therefore a must for nursing education in order to uncover dimensions of experiences such as hidden and explicit meanings of behavior that can aid a student nurse in identifying her own perspective of the nursing practice that is highly useful in her entry to the profession (Guzzetta, 1998, 103). For a student in nursing, one must therefore develop a habit of reflection in order to uncover experiences and the meaning of behavior, values and thoughts that could readily prepare one for professional practice. It should be noted that the reflective process can helpfully aid in teamwork where one has the chance to relay sentiments after reflection of her past experience.Nursing education must therefore develop and evaluate innovative strategies to prepare nurses to meet the challenges of the rapidly changing health care system and for lifelong learning (Johns and Freshwater, 1998, 149). Reflection and reflective practice are currently receiving attention as a strategy yet little is known about the process of becoming a reflective thinker, how to teach skills needed for reflection, or the barriers and facilitators to becoming a reflective practitioner (Clutterback and Lane, 2004, 198). However a reflection process is worthy of study and practice that should initially be started and adapted as a core training for everyone wishing to professionally practice nursing as a positive way to analyze the development of reflective practice abilities. Bibliography Canham, Judith and Bennett, JoAnne, 2001, Mentoring in Community Nursing: Challenges and Opportunities, Blackwell, London, 2001. Clutterback, David and Lane,Gill, 2004, The Situational Mentor: An International Review of Competencies and Capabilities in Mentoring, GowerHouse, London. Davies, Celia, Bullman, Anne and Finlay, Linda, 2000, Changing Practice in Health and Social Care, Sage, London. Ellis, Roger, Kenworthy, Neil and Gates, Bob, 2003, Interpersonal Communication in Nursing: Theory and Practice, Elsevier Sciences, Orlando. Gibbs, Graham, 1998, Learning by Doing: A Guide to Teaching and Learning Methods, Oxford, London. Guzzetta, Cathie, 1998,Essential Readings in Holistic Nursing, Jones Bartlett, Maryland. Humphris, Debra and Masterson, Abigail Masterson, 2000, Developing New Clinical Roles: A Guide for Health Professionals, Elsevier, Florida. Johns, Christopher, 2002, Guided Reflection: Research in Practice, Blackwell Publishing, Perth. Johns, Christopher and Freshwater, Dawn, 1998, Transforming Nursing Through Reflective Practice. Blackwell, Perth. Quinn,   Ã‚  Francis M. 2000, The Principles and Practice of Nurse Education, 4rth ed., Nelson Thorne, London. Slevin, Oliver and Basford, Lynn, 2003, Theory and Practice of Nursing: An Integrated Approach to Caring Practice, Nelson Thomas, London. Taylor Beverly, 2000, Reflective Practice: A guide for Nurses and Midwives, Allen and Unwin, St. Leonard. Watkins, Dianne, Edwards, Judy and Gastrell,Pam, 2003, Community Health Nursing: Frameworks for Practice, Elsevier Sciences, Orlando.            

Amundsen and scott

The chilling tundra ot the antarctic restrained anyone trom exploring antarctic tor years. Amundsen and Scott, two very brave men chose to attempt to reach the south pole. The prowess in both men was incredibly heroic. Amundsen and Scott knew It was a treacherous journey but were up for the task. Only one man could be the first, and Amundsen was most definitely the successor. Amundsen had prepared for this journey all his life. While Scott flew by the seat of his pants, going on this expedition was Just one of many things he had done without lan.It was a provisional job. Scott knew he wouldn't be able to keep up with it for that long. Scott was temerltly. Scott didn't think twice about his adventure, thus leading to him being unprepared on his trip. Scott was physically prepared but not fully prepared mentally. Amundsen on the other hand examined every detail of his expedition piece by piece, ensuring that he would have the best of the best and be fully prepared. Always planning ever y move he made. The equipment they brought and the obstacles they faced were definitely a huge part of their trip.Obstacles including weather and the natural environment. Of course Scott and Amundsens trip differed between what exactly happened but Scotts body obviously couldn't procure the harsh weather the arctic had In store for him. Yet Amundsen still had trouble handling the weather he could still cope with it. Also, equipment was what saved Amundsen. Amundsen brought around a hundred dogs. He was well prepared bringing everything he would ever need and then some on the trip. While scott packed light rather than packing what he needed. Luck and fate played a large part In the story.Just because Amundsen was stopped when he was so close to the pole doesn't mean he tailed. He had the experience, the Journey and the lesson that Is Irreplaceable. Scott may of got to the pole, but whats it worth if he died. He's not alive to be a success. Considering Scott was completely unprepared it was luck that he made it to the pole. Knowing he was oblivious to what was really happening out in the abject temperatures. Yet it was fate that he didn't make It home safely. Amundsen on the other hand had fate on his side, he hadn't made it to the pole. ich must of been meant to be. because If he made It he very well could of died. It was fate that he got to come home to keep on living a life rather than Scott who died an inexpedient death along side his team out in the icy cold. Making it to the pole and dying doesn't make you a hero nor does it make you smart. You are both stupid and unheroic. Yes Scott died trying to be a success, but he tOf2 naa Tallea. I ne Tame deserves to go to Amundsen. Amundsen was smart enougn to know what he was doing and how it could drastically change the outcome of his trip f he kept on going.Amundsen is the hero because he turned back. He was able to say i tried, and i my not of made it but i got extremely close and I am alive to tell a story. Th at is a true successor. In the end the successor is Amundsen no doubt. He dreamed of the day for years and years. It would be cruel if you took the rightful fame away from him. He knew what he wanted to do for years and years. Scott Just decided one day on a whim. Amundsen deserves to be remember Just as well if not greater than Scott.

Free Essays on The Birth Of The Big Band

Free Essays on The Birth Of The Big Band Benny Begets the Swing Band The world sometimes gives birth to creative and innovative individuals. These rare men often leave their mark on the world, forever changing a facet of our society and culture. The arts, specifically music and jazz, have had a more volatile history than history than perhaps any other genre in the spectrum of popular culture. One of these innovators, Benny Goodman, rekindled the flame of jazz with a new and exciting form of swing that brightened the stagnant waters of music. This revolutionary swing style was dubbed Big Band. While other bands conformed to the swing jazz mold, Benny Goodman and his group of your diverse musicians sought to change jazz as a whole, and in the effort ushered in the Swing Band Era. Yearning for success in the music business, Benny Goodman quickly gathered a group of fresh musicians, and in showing the might of his band, the hot new group, which had the credit of sparking the swing era, gained national noteriety. Karen Johnson mentions that jazz clarinetists Johnny Dodds, Leon Roppolo, and Jimmy Noone collectively fueled Benny’s inner desire to lead a band (1). Finally feeling seasoned enough to make it in the big band circuit, Karen Johnson adds that Goodman formed a twelve piece big band in 1932 (1). Before 1934, dance and â€Å"sweet† bands controlled the radio waves and dancehalls, but as Johnson states, upon the arrival of Benny’s band â€Å"at the Polomar Ballroom in Las Angeles on August 21, 1935†¦ Goodman became a nationally known star.†(1). Young listeners all over the country tuned their radios to hear Benny’s band play, and Parker adds that with his new mix of hot jazz, like an explosion Benny was suddenly a n ational star(3). Some columnists proclaimed this the beginning of the Swing Era, but Parker adds in opposition that â€Å"no one incident can be related to [big band jazz’s] genesis† (2). Similarly, it is possible to infer that Benny’s band was credit...

Explain how Machiavelli's discussion of virtue (virtu) in The Prince Essay

Explain how Machiavelli's discussion of virtue (virtu) in The Prince differs from that of the ancients like Plato and Cicero. Give examples - Essay Example It is immoral and unethical, maintains Plato, for a ruler to rule solely by might. Machiavelli has stated, ""A Prince, therefore should have no care or thought but for war, and the regulations and training it requires, and should apply himself exclusively to this as his peculiar province; for war is the sole art looked for in one who rules" (Machiavelli, P. 70)." Therefore, it is clear that Machiavelli's idea of virtu' is not one that is based on moral character, but rather, based on utility. For Machiavelli, virtu' outweighs morality when the needs of the situation demands it; for Plato, one must preserve morality at all times. Plato believes in utopian ideals and propositions; Machiavelli, was a realist. Cicero, on the other hand, maintains that there was no distinction between that which was morally good and what was useful to man. His concept of duty is directly opposite the concept of duty as forwarded by Machiavelli. Cicero believed that pleasure may be enjoyed by man, but that there is a right and moral way to enjoy pleasure. For example, sex is an enjoyable activity and may thus be engaged in by man, but it is wrong to have sex with another man's wife. To quote from Cicero, "Virtue is a habit of the mind, consistent with nature and moderation and reason." Even their concepts of government are markedly different. Machiavelli would be wont to argue for the top-down approach, i.e., a good ruler is essential, a ruler who must be feared, more than loved. Cicero, on the other hand, believes that people should work together for the betterment of the community. Hence, he espouses a bottom-top approach. Describe the role of virtue in friendship, according to Cicero. Cicero's work, "De Amicitia" (On Friendship) captures this thinker's thoughts on friendship, and particularly, the role that virtue plays. A very enlightening passage in this work, translated in English, reads: "I can only advise you to prefer friendship to all things else within human attainment, insomuch as nothing beside is so well fitted to nature, -- so well adapted to our needs whether in prosperous or in adverse circumstances. But I consider this as a first principle -- that friendship can exist only between good men." Much ado is made regarding the moral dimension of friendship - that it should be based on nature, and not on need, on love and not on benefit. To quote the good philosopher once again, "But in friendship there is nothing feigned, nothing pretended, and whatever there is in it is both genuine and spontaneous. Friendship, therefore, springs from nature rather than from need, -- from an inclination of the mind with a certain consciousness of love rather than from calculation of the benefit to be derived from it." Hence, Cicero believes that truth-telling is an important aspect of friendship, and that the truth must be told to a friend, even though the truth hurts. But perhaps the most important point made by Cicero is that virtue is the very framework of friendship, it is the very bulwark on which friendship rests - Virtue, I say to you, Caius Fannius, and to you, Quintus Mucius, -- virtue both forms and preserves friendships. In it is mutual agreement; in it is stability; in it is consistency of conduct and character. When it has put itself forth and

Clouds Seeding Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Clouds Seeding - Essay Example This paper takes a closer look at the concept of cloud seeding, the types, uses, and impact on the environment (Keyes 3). The main objective of cloud seeding is to cause enhance the precipitation through rain and snow and reduce the formation of hail and fog. This technology initially launched to research on and to monitor the climatic conditions of various regions in the world has been widely adopted by world’s leading economies with the main objective of negating the effects of extreme weather conditions. Under normal circumstances, harsh weather conditions are mostly experienced in the temperate countries especially during the winter and summer (Keyes 3). Although several methods of cloud seeding exist, the most common categories are the aerial cloud seeding and ground-based cloud seeding. Aerial cloud seeding involves the use of light aircrafts in the modification of weather at a considerable height from the ground. Ground-based cloud seeding on the other hand, entails the launching of intended substances into the earth’s atmosphere to carry out the same purpose. Irrespective of the procedure used to conduct cloud seeding, the underpinning idea is the same as it is the same process conducted in different procedures. Since the essence of cloud seeding is to promote the precipitation of condensed cloud, the methodology involves the injection of certain substances or chemicals into the clouds with the most commonly used being dry ice and silver iodide (Keyes 3). In some cases, the use of propane has proved successful although scholars from certain quarters questioned its efficiency. Since for successful could seeding to take pla ce there has to be super cooled water, the use of silver iodide has solved the problem through its ability to stimulate freezing nucleation because it is crystalline in nature. Research shows that dry ice and propane perform better than silver iodide as far

Business Law Coursework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business Law Coursework - Essay Example (or "Divies") under the principle of vicarious liability. Crates may likewise have a claim for consequential economic loss. For Abraham and Crates to successfully claim under the law of tort, it must be shown that the elements making up a successful claim of negligence exist: duty, breach, causation, and damage. In the case of Lochgelly Iron and Coal Co. v M'Mullan (1934), it was stated that the tort of negligence 'properly connotes the complex of duty, breach and damage thereby suffered by the person to whom the duty was owing'. It was likewise stated in Burton v Islington (1992) that 'it is now elementary that the tort of negligence involves three factors: a duty of care, a breach of that duty and consequent damage.' Based on the foregoing decisions, the tort of negligence to be actionable must have the following elements: (1) there is a legal duty of care owed by defendant to the plaintiff; (2) a breach of that legal duty of care consisting of an act or omission by the defendant; and (3) consequent damage on the part of the plaintiff as a result such act or omission by the defendant. [see also Markesi nis, p. 69 (1999)] In the recent case of Jones v BBC, 2007 WL 2187023 (QBD), Jones, a freelance sound recordist for defendant BBC, claimed that he suffered personal injury caused by the negligence of the defendants. During a recording of the lowering of a windmill mast, and while Jones was walking under the inclined mast, the windmill rotor fell onto his back causing severe spinal injury rendering him paraplegic. In ruling for the claimant, the court stated that the BBC, as employer, had assumed responsibility for the health and safety of freelancers when they work on BBC productions. Since the safety crew had identified a risk of the falling mast, a discussion before filming should have been made to warn the crew not to go beneath it. But the safety crew did not give the warning. Such failure of BBC, through the safety crew, is considered negligent which caused Jones' accident. It had been held that it was incumbent upon BBC, its safety crew and the owners of the farm as occupiers of the site to take steps further to those they had taken to ensure that the BBC crew did not pass under the mast during its lowering. In the instant case, the shop manager breached the legal duty of care required of him under the circumstances when he failed to give a safety warning or danger warning after opening the windows onto the pavement because it is reasonably foreseeable that such window obstructs the path of the pedestrian and is most likely to cause an accident. Thus, in the case of Crowther v Kirklees Metropolitan Council (2006), the claimant ambulance driver claimed damages for personal injuries she sustained when she went to the house of a patient where the street was a narrow cul-de-sac with no footpaths. When plaintiff got out of the ambulance and placed her right foot on the step, as it was a high drop to the road, and her left foot on the ground, it entered a large defect centred around a circular utility cover measuring 5cm in depth, 40cm in width and 46 cm in length. When her foot entered the defect, she went over on her left ankle, which she strained. In ruling for the plaintiff, the court stated that it was reasonably foreseeable that the defect could result in injury to pedestrians. The

Funding my used book store Essay Example for Free

Funding my used book store Essay This will be an outlet that deals in second-hand or used books. Literacy of a people is the foundation of a nation. We wish to encourage the culture of reading in order to eliminate illiteracy. We have chosen to go this route due to affordability. The shop’s name â€Å"Daily Books† is bound to be a crowd puller. The service will be targeting the thousands of shoppers and those whiling away window shopping or taking casual walks. Considering the hard economic times we are going through as a nation, this idea could not be timelier. Concept Funding my used book store Business Statement SBA loans are available and we are going for the lowdoc that addresses needs below $150k. This is part of the 7(a) loan program. The loans not only come with low interest rates and minimum hassles but also with entrepreneur education. This is a very helpful resource. Since some banks allow one to access funds for the business from relatives, then your proposal is well within all legal requirements. Competitive edge Products and services: Ease of getting classical novels and writings which may not be available from the conventional book shops. These may as well be collectors’ items. Inexpensive: All our books will be way below the market prices. Organization: The arrangement and placement of books will make it easy for shoppers to locate what they want and hence save valuable time. The lighting will be artistic and professional. Location: -. The shop’s strategic location is a sure winner. The university and schools’ readership will come in handy. Public relations: This is one of our greatest strengths as my partner is deep and wide reader, not to mention that I am an excellent people person and marketer. We have been careful to hire committed staff whose vision is similar to ours. Market / Industry information While the knowledge search continues to expand, there is stiff competition in the horizon. New players are joining the market not to mention new technology. The government is putting in place structures that will aid in the growth. Product/Service Information The crucial service on offer is the provision of an accessible, unique product, convenient, and a cheap service facility which promises easy access to the avid reader. The county council has been of great support since we shared our idea with them. On the launch, they have offered the parade grounds at no charge at all. They will also be sending word out to the local dwellers. Goals and strategies In the short term, we will be focusing on getting people to see the big picture. What has all along been thought of a rich man’s hobby that owning a rich home library is their preserve will now be common place. Due to our strategic location, we are assured of traffic. Our goal then, will be to focus on those walking in and around the complex. We aim to serve at least 50 walking customers per day. The tills in the stores around the town will be offering discount vouchers to all their customers in the first month after launching. The next level and secondary goal will entail advertising by use of flyers and banners. We shall also do rounds in the offices. Our marketers will visit every school in the area and the university as well. For these students, we intend to offer a discounted price especially for the course books. We shall introduce membership to all our customers with an aim of giving away bonus gifts and discounts. This will see our customer base grow from 50 to 100 after 6 months of business. In the long term, we are looking at electronic sales. This will entail a website that will advertise as well as offer on-line sales. A delivery van will come in handy for those members who may be a little out of town. The bookshop should have a readability of 500 plus faithful customers after a period of 2 years. As a backup plan for the above strategy, we will be liaising with the local bookshops as well as those in the nearby towns. We shall introduce a partnership programme that should see their sales soar as well. The idea is to bring about symbiosis and cut unfair competition. We plan to have stock lists of al the other outlets and when customers make enquiries, referential sales will be seamless. We shall encourage book owners to exchange or deposit old books that they no longer use. This idea will go along way in reducing our capital requirement for re-stocking. Payback As per the bank’s requirements, we have negotiated a very low payback interest rate. We have a 60 days initial grace period after which we shall be required to pay only 1. 5% PA on a reducing balance. This arrangement will go along way in helping us repay you within a comfortable period. It will not stretch the business neither will you be strained financially while it gives you peace of mind that your investment is secured. References Advani, A. (2005). SBA loans for your startup. Entrepreneur. com. Retrieved November 18, 2008 http://www. entrepreneur. com/money/financing/startupfinancingcolumnistasheeshadvani/article79254. html