The Pros And Cons Of Reflection

Within the health profession Reflection is one of the most widely used strategies to ensure the on-going improvements to the quality of nursing care.
A more detailed description of what Reflection is will be discussed, as well as its merits and limitations. The Gibbs (1988) Reflective Cycle will also be discussed, along with how it is frequently utilised in practice by British healthcare professionals. Various models of Reflection will also be explored in detail.
In addition to the above, a review of the existing literature will be made to discuss the differing forms of communication, both verbal and non-verbal, dignity, respect and the merits of utilising client-centred care to maintain patient self-worth. Patient capacity and consent will

In addition to the definition from Bond et al. (1994), provided above, Coward (2011) also states that reflection is the process of exploring our thinking and highlighting our good and bad experiences to develop them in the future. Reflection enables the professional to analyse issues that will help them improve and develop from their past experiences, gaining insight and personal development.
The NMC takes the view that Reflection can be any form on learning that allows professionals to improve their knowledge and skills, both of which are vital in ensuring competence as a nurse (NMC, 2008).
The NMC place great importance upon the use of Reflection, such that it has been made a mandatory process that must be undertaken by all registered nurses and midwives (NMC, 2008). The process is validated annually, allowing the NMC themselves to reflect upon the direction in which the procedure develops. The main themes that have come out of the NMC guidance on reflection are prioritising patients, effective practice and ensuring that safety, professionalism and trust are maintained at the highest