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Caring through a reflective lens: giving meaning to being a reflective practitioner
1Faculty of Health Care and Social Studies, University of Luton, Bedfordshire, UK.
Nursing Inquiry
|June 5, 1998
Summary
A reflective practitioner critically analyzes their work using a structured approach. This paper explores defining and embodying reflective practice within daily nursing through the Burford Nursing Development Unit (NDU) Model.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Professional Development
- Healthcare Practice
Background:
- Defining the 'reflective practitioner' is crucial for professional growth in healthcare.
- Existing models often lack practical application in daily routines.
- The Burford Nursing Development Unit (NDU) Model offers a framework for structured reflection.
Observation:
- This paper presents a reflective account of being a reflective practitioner.
- It examines how everyday practice can be enhanced through conscious reflection.
- The focus is on integrating reflective thinking into routine nursing activities.
Findings:
- A reflective practitioner actively uses a 'reflective lens' to interpret and respond to their practice.
- The Burford Nursing Development Unit (NDU) Model provides a structured approach to this reflective process.
- Meaningful reflection is achievable within the context of everyday nursing.
Implications:
- Adopting a structured reflective lens can enhance the quality of nursing care.
- The NDU Model can be a valuable tool for educating and developing reflective practitioners.
- This approach supports continuous professional development and evidence-based practice in nursing.
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