Value of Reflective Practice for Skills Development

Value of Reflective Practice for Skills Development Reflective practice has been defined as Involving self, a process that is undertaken in response to a positive or negative event that may be initiate consciously or subconsciously, that requires to provide an answer (Chapman, Dempsey et al. 2009). It has also been defined as Paying critical attention to the practical values and theories which inform every day actions, by examining practice reflectively and reflexively, this leads to developmental insight (Clouston, Westcott 2005). Reflective practice is a process to which a person dissects their internal reactions to certain situations, and how they dealt with the cause and effect. It is only through this reflection that an individual can comprehensively understand and learn from their previous decision making mechanisms. Reflective practice gives the opportunity for a health professional to look back at their clinical skills used in given situations, and assess how these skills could be amended to better their professional practice. It is a method of learning from experiences, using experiences to analyze why problems occurred, and then to find a solution to these problems (Taylor 2010). Reflection has been defined by Dewey (1933) as active persistent and careful consideration of any belief or supposed form of knowledge in the light of the grounds that support it and the further conclusion to which it tends cited by (Mann, Gordon et al. 2009). Boud (1978) reinforces Deweys assessment of reflection, however, he aligns himself with an overtly emotional assessment of personal experience. Boud defines reflection as a generic term for those intellectual and affective activities in which individuals engage to explore their experiences in order to lead to a new understanding and appreciation cited by (Mann, Gordon et al. 2009). There is a gap between academia and good professional practice. Although a student may have a very good understanding of theory, this does not necessarily teach them about good professional practice (Baird 2008). Knowledge is something that is to be challenged and reinforced. Gaining knowledge through clinical experience and reflection is key to being a reflective practitioner (Clouston, Westcott 2005). This can be obtained at university level within Radiography through clinical placement, positioning classes and a personal development system (PDS) (Baird 2008). These classes give the student an opportunity to challenge, discuss, but more importantly reflect on the theory which they have learned. It is through problem solving that a student can reach below the purely scientific understanding of processes and procedures, and can delve into the deeper, and one could argue, the more complexities of clinical practice. Through these teaching methods a student can learn that the theory of practice is not always going to work in given situations, and through reflection they can amend their knowledge to give the result of better clinical skills and professional practice (Baird 2008). It would be nieve to assume that every patient, every ailment, should reprieve a standard set method of treatment. The PDS is an online resource which provides a student with a key initial starting block to which they can build a more successful, productive, and ultimately professional methodology to explore key skill and developmental needs (Rowland 2006). A study of students found that reflective exercises proved successful, and that they thought it could be a valuable part of their professional careers within the health service. Students realised that reflective practice can help to deal with any similar issues arising (Cronin, Connolly 2007). Another study found that student nurses gained confidence in decision making through journal writing also stating that they believed more, that writing could be used to learn (Epp 2008). Both studies show that reflective practice is a beneficial tool that can be used to enhance professional practice. However the first study is seemingly over crediting the usefulness of reflective practice on a one size fits all basis. Students must not become fully dependant on the benefits which reflective practice may bring, and must leave room for ingenuity, and adapt these procedures to specific circumstances. The second study reinforces the benefits which reflective practice can bring to a students confide nce in their own professional expertise. The introduction of key performance indicators (KPI) into healthcare departments increased awareness among staff and gave an obligation to staff to fulfil certain tasks (Abujudeh, Kaewlai et al. 2010). Through KPIs in individual can highlight areas of strengths and weaknesses, however more importantly can develop a systematic and detailed plan to improve their continual personal development. There are methods incorporated into KPIS to encourage reflective practice, Continual Professional Development (CPD) and life long learning (LLL) (Chapman, Dempsey et al. 2009). Within radiography these two strategies are used to develop reflective practice. LLL was implemented with the intention for individuals to continually re-educate themselves on advances within their field of work. CPD is a resource which is discussed in detail with, the relevant line manager. If CPD is used properly reflective thinking is encouraged in the practitioner (Chapman, Dempsey et al. 2009). This reinforces the rel ationship which exists between CPD and the development of reflective practice. The society of radiographers has invested in an exclusive CPD tool which gives advice to members on how to reflect and learn. The CPD plan outlines that reflective practice can be carried out in a number of ways. Firstly by writing a reflective journal about personal experiences in the workplace or secondly in an educational environment through health professionals attending courses, to learn better ways of becoming a good reflective practitioner (Kelly 2005). It is only through implementation of all of these methods that a continual and productive mode of reflective practice can be achieved through the CPD plan. Writing a reflective journal helps a health professional keep a record of their practice, remind themselves of good and bad practice, why it happened and how they overcame or will overcome the problem (Clouston, Westcott 2005). A study found when a group of radiation therapists gathered to write journals together that their motivation, confidence, professional knowledge, critical thinking and professional practice all increased ensuring the CPD of staff (Milinkovic, Field et al. 2008). It is vital for reflective practice to be a success, all individuals within an organisation must be wholly committed to the belief that reflective practice is a worthwhile and productive tool. Things which hinder reflective practice occur in workplaces where there is no emphasis put on it by line management.. The pressures placed on professionals in the clinical environment mean that the health professional may feel that time spent on reflective practice may seem wasted (Mann, Gordon et al. 2009). It is a well known fact that as the health professional spends more time in the profession, it is found that less of their time is spent reflecting. It has been said that barriers to reflective practice include lack of time and space, negative preconceptions, organisational culture, fear, the risk of routine and not fully understanding reflection (Clouston, Westcott 2005). A study found that the use of a facilitator within a healthcare team to guide people and help promote reflective practi ce was very beneficial to the team. The time spent on reflection was said to have enhanced critical thinking, professionalism, making decisions and being able to challenge things they were not in full agreement with (Mann, Gordon et al. 2009). The use of a reflective practice facilitator provides a systematic and constant reminder to practitioners of the importance and benefits which this tool can give in work life. The facilitator provides an outlet for relevant and knowledgeable advice in what a practitioner may perceive as being a difficult circumstance. This study suggests that reflective practice has a positive impact on clinical skills and professional practice. Another study found that within the format of a meeting environment consisting of health professionals, reflective practice was influenced by five factors. The first factor which influenced reflective practice was that too much structure in a meeting lowered the ability to reflect. Secondly the level of interest a prof essional has in reflection, the more interested being better reflectors. Meetings in which people have certain roles and consist of tasks do not provide ideal for reflection. A pressurised environment where a professional is obliged to complete tasks, was shown to prevent reflective capabilities also (Heel, Sparrow et al. 2006). It would be nieve and absurd to remove structure from this mode of reflection, as the KPI targets reinforce good reflection methods. . Reflective practice has been proven to be an important tool in developing clinical skills and professional development. All studies had a similar agreement that reflective practice is good but the method of reflecting varied. Reflective practice has to be carried out from student to professional level. Reflection was said to increase confidence, decision making, motivation and professionalism (Clouston, Westcott 2005). There were no studies found that measured the effectiveness of reflective practice, perhaps this is an area where more research is needed. Another area that no research was located on was bad experiences of reflective practice. Further study into these areas could give more insight into how beneficial reflection is.

The Fisherman by Kurt Brown

Life is filled with pleasures and uncertainties. We have ups and downs, and enjoy the better days because we have survived the worst. The â€Å"Fisherman† by Kurt Brown, tells a tale of a man fishing every day in hopes of catching something beyond him. This poem represents our lives and is a direct metaphor of the duality of success and failure. Our lives can relate to this poem because there comes a time in our lives, when we realize the world has so much to offer us. In order to see and feel the many wonders in life, risk needs to be put forth.Life does do not come to us, like the fisherman; who continues to cast his line into the deep, dark, and thundering waters, perseverance is required. Someday the catch will be rewarding and others will leave empty handed. However, it was enjoyable to go out and risk catching something glorious. Fishing is sport that involves any body of water. Theses body of waters are always bigger than our self’s. â€Å"Maybe it's the shadow of other fish, greater than his, the shadow of other men's souls passing over him,† (Brown 6,7) after analyzing this line, I concluded Brown was referencing life and how it continues without us.There is always a Goliath in life that towers over us all. However, we should not let it pass without attempting to grasp the monstrosity that is life. Not all catches are easy; sharks, marlin and other big game fish will all struggle to pull you down with them into the depths of the deep, dark Ocean. Once you hook the fish, a fight is ensured that will test the limits of your heart. Whether it is with bigger fish or bigger men, strength is required to overcome them. I believe this is one message brown intended to convey in his poem.In a way, Brown tells an aspiring tale of the fisherman's success and failures. â€Å"Each day he grabs his gear and makes his way to the ocean,† (Brown 8,9) determined to catch the best in the salty waters, yet satisfied knowing if he goes home empty handed, the best of him was put forth. Brown was trying to showcase the relentlessness of the fisherman's pride. Each day was different and offered a better catch than before, even if nothing as caught in the previous days, the fisherman continued to have faith and cast his line.In life, we feel like this. Some days we feel like all the choices made up to this point have been pointless. Then we remember, after time spent sulking about our mistakes, that we still have a chance our luck and livelihood. In a way, we all have a little fisherman in all of us. Failure in life is expected, like death, everyone has to face it head on. However, others charge right into it, hoping for the best outcome. We like to think control is always in our hands and the outcomes in majority of situations will tip towards our favor.However, all we have to rely on is uncertainty. Yes we can plan the lives we wish to live out, pursue the goals in life that will allow happiness to flow, but the only real goa l we all achieve knows that uncertainty reigns supreme. â€Å"He'll go back soon, thinking: â€Å"Maybe tonight. † (Brown 17) Brown conveyed the doubt that plagues the fisherman's conscious. â€Å"Maybe tonight,† he is unsure whether the trip back is worth it. Although he may be optimistic and determined, he can't shake the uncertainty.Like a double-edged sword, you cannot have one without the other. In this case, it's doubt that attacks his unyielding perseverance. In closing, despite all of the contrasts of success and failure, Brown started his poem with a strong message â€Å"A man spends his whole life fishing in himself for something grand,† we all want to be the best versions of ourselves. But the thing is; if allowed, we get better as time goes on. We become wiser, and look back on all of the great things that we allowed ourselves to experience.So, to continue becoming grand, we have to constantly pull the greatness out of our souls and temper it. Like a blacksmith creating a fine piece of metal from raw material, it takes time, work, and fire to create a truly fine piece of work. We must constantly fuel the fire and if that fire should go out, it must be relight within to continue on. Like the fisherman in Brown's poem, preparation is required to fish properly. Otherwise, if a strong fish comes your way, how do you expect to make it yours?

The Advantages of Top Essay Topics to Write about

The Advantages of Top Essay Topics to Write about Essays are very helpful for college students. Essay outline for college plays an important role. Whispered Top Essay Topics to Write about Secrets If you pick a topic that's too broad, you will wind up writing just an overall overview without an in-depth comprehension. You could possibly be given the topic straight away by your professor, or you might be free to opt for the topic yourself. It's important to select debatable argumentative essay topics since you need opposing points you could counter to your own points. The key to select a great topic for an argumentative essay is to select a subject where there's a lot of debates on topics or stances. You don't need to acquire super technical with legal argumentative essays, but remember to do your homework on what the present laws about your preferred topic actually say. The multiple topics might be found, for instance, in the dissertation abstracts international database. As always, our list is only here in order to light a spark of imagination and motivate you to develop an original topic all on your own. An argumentative essay is a certain kind of academic writing. At times you might require some expert help with argumentative essay topics. Moral argumentative essay topics are a few of the simplest to get carried away with. Recent argumentative essay topics that are related to society is going to do. With all preparations from the way, you're prepared to compose your argumentative essay. When prior brainstorming is finished, you might begin drafting your essay. Certain informative essay issues demand a lengthy period to finish a last paper. You already understand what a descriptive essay is and the way to begin. Informative essay is an opportunity to explain important facts. Successful informative essays need a great thesis. The should evoke emotions is almost always a troublesome one because humans are subject to so many unique idiosyncrasies. When you're picking your topic, bear in mind that it's much simpler to write about something which you presently have interest ineven in case you don't know a great deal about it. It is very important to mention that the idea doesn't need to be a good one. The ideas you will discover here will surely inspire you and provide you some new ideas. Selecting an intriguing topic is vital for the success of your research project because it is going to send you in the correct direction and help you to stay interested and motivated during the whole writing process. Well, the response isn't too obvi ous here. At exactly the same time, it's important to extend a specific reply to the question. Who knowsthe solution to that question may be the foundation for your admission essay. The Fight Against Top Essay Topics to Write about If you seek secrets how to compose an informative essay, make an opportunity to supply professionally summarized information at the start of your article. Life is far better than it was 50 decades ago. The increasing number of essay writing services is wholly overwhelming. If you see our on-line library, you also can find something cozy to write about. Now each part of the essays format might relatively vary. however, it is the standard norm of having the introduction. If you must choose the subject of your essay about education, you have arrived at the perfect place. The first kind of essay that we're likely to review is argumentative writing. Descriptive essays should provide the reader that exact feeling, even though the sensory attachment could differ.

Vibration White Finger Treatment and Prevention Options

Vibration white finger,  or Raynauds disease, is also called hand-arm vibration syndrome and is a  repetitive stress injury  caused by exposure of the hands to vibrating equipment. Its a neurological injury and may be associated with pain, tingling, and numbness in the hands, a loss of sensitivity, and a decrease in grip strength. Fingers may become white and swollen when cold and then red and painful when rewarmed. If you have been diagnosed with vibration white finger or fear you might develop it, it is time to look at treatments and prevention. Vibration white finger is a cumulative disorder with no cure after you have developed it. However, the same measures you can take to prevent the disorder can help reduce the frequency and duration of white finger episodes. Other symptomatic treatments can ease your suffering as well. Cause of Vibration White Finger Tools that cause the vibration syndrome include jackhammers, angle grinders, chain saws, power lawn mowers, and like equipment, though vibrating electronic game controllers can also contribute. Episodes of vascular spasms that cause the white finger are usually triggered by exposure to cold or by contact with cold surfaces. Wet and damp conditions can also exacerbate the condition. Controlling the triggering cause can go a long way to reducing symptoms. Prevention If you use vibrating equipment on a regular basis, you are at risk for developing vibration white finger. Preventive measures can ward off this syndrome. Use sound ergonomic equipment that reduces vibration transference to the hands.Use vibration-absorbing gloves or pads. Gel padding is better than foam padding for protecting  your hands against vibration.Hold equipment loosely.Work in short durations with frequent breaks. Take at least one 10-minute break every hour.Keep your hands warm to keep blood flowing.Avoid smoking or taking drugs or substances that inhibit blood flow. Maintain a Healthy Body You need to stay healthy and fit. Maintain a healthy weight. Strong bodies are more resilient against the stressors that cause vibration white finger. Maintain good cardiovascular health. Good blood flow to the hands is crucial. Treatment Although vibration white finger has no known cure, some practices can alleviate the symptoms. Stop using vibrating equipment. The more you vibrate the affected area, the worse it will get.Stop smoking and the use of tobacco products. Tobacco makes the disorder worse.Caffeine and amphetamines can trigger bouts of vibration white finger. Remove these from your diet.Some prescription and over-the-counter drugs and supplements may trigger bouts as well if they restrict blood flow. Discuss possible drug interactions with your health care provider.Stay warm and avoid cold triggers.Exercise your hands and body to improve circulation.Keep your whole body warm outdoors in cold temperatures, to keep circulation moving to your extremities. Hand warmers and battery-warmed gloves may be useful.When a bout  of vibration syndrome occurs, warm the hands as fast as possible.Medication: Some medications do provide some effectiveness in treating vibration white finger. Talk to your doctor for more information.