- In a new Word document, start with your name and date at the top.
- Copy and paste the questions below (keep the numeric question format in your document).
- Answer each question with at least 2-3 complete sentences for full credit.
- Re-upload and submit the completed Word document to Canvas.
Answer the following questions for this reflection journal:
- Think of a common saying, perhaps something your family used to say to you, that is health-related (like you must not swim for 30 minutes after you eat, or you’ll get a stomach ache, or if you go outside with wet hair, you’ll catch a cold). What information you would need to have in order to support or refute these claims. For example what questions would you need to investigate?
- What do you think could be challenging to apply evidence-based practice in nursing care? How can you overcome these when you become a nurse?
- What do you think you will do when you encounter a patient care situation in which decisions are made that go against your values and beliefs?
- Why is it important to have passions or interests other than nursing? What is your plan to avoid burnout as a nurse?
- How do you think you come across when communicating with other people? What are some areas you may need to work on with communication?
- In this course, you have learned many strategies for success. Which one was the most useful and why? How will you apply this to your life (currently, or in your future nursing school)? Which concept do you want to make sure and take with you moving forward?
- Looking back over the last three weeks of the course, what is the biggest change in your understanding of the nursing profession since the beginning of the course? How will you apply this to your life (currently, or in your future nursing practice)?
[Your Name]
[Date]
Reflection Journal
1. Think of a common saying, perhaps something your family used to say to you, that is health-related (like you must not swim for 30 minutes after you eat, or you’ll get a stomach ache, or if you go outside with wet hair, you’ll catch a cold). What information would you need to have in order to support or refute these claims? For example, what questions would you need to investigate?
A common saying in my family is “If you go outside with wet hair, you’ll catch a cold.” To support or refute this, I would need to investigate if cold weather or wet hair directly causes colds, or if colds are caused only by viruses. I would also need to look into studies on the transmission of colds, particularly focusing on whether temperature or wetness can influence susceptibility to the virus.
2. What do you think could be challenging to apply evidence-based practice in nursing care? How can you overcome these when you become a nurse?
Applying evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing can be challenging due to time constraints, access to updated research, and resistance from patients or staff. To overcome these, I can ensure I stay current on research, advocate for ongoing professional education, and find ways to incorporate EBP efficiently into routine care.
3. What do you think you will do when you encounter a patient care situation in which decisions are made that go against your values and beliefs?
When faced with patient care decisions that go against my values, I will prioritize patient autonomy and professional guidelines. I will seek guidance from colleagues or supervisors and refer to ethical frameworks that balance personal beliefs with patient-centered care, ensuring that the patient’s rights are respected.
4. Why is it important to have passions or interests other than nursing? What is your plan to avoid burnout as a nurse?
Having passions outside of nursing is crucial for maintaining a balanced life and avoiding burnout. To avoid burnout, I plan to engage in regular physical activity, maintain social relationships, and set aside time for hobbies such as reading or traveling. This will help me stay rejuvenated and focused in my professional life.
5. How do you think you come across when communicating with other people? What are some areas you may need to work on with communication?
I believe I come across as empathetic and a good listener when communicating with others. However, I may need to work on being more assertive, especially when advocating for patients, and on ensuring clarity in delivering complex information to patients with low health literacy.
6. In this course, you have learned many strategies for success. Which one was the most useful and why? How will you apply this to your life (currently, or in your future nursing school)? Which concept do you want to make sure and take with you moving forward?
The most useful strategy was time management, as it helped me balance coursework with other responsibilities. I will apply this by continuing to prioritize tasks and setting realistic goals, both in my current studies and future nursing career. The concept of self-care is something I want to carry forward, as it is crucial for sustaining a long and fulfilling nursing career.
7. Looking back over the last three weeks of the course, what is the biggest change in your understanding of the nursing profession since the beginning of the course? How will you apply this to your life (currently, or in your future nursing practice)?
The biggest change in my understanding is the complexity and importance of evidence-based practice in providing quality patient care. I now see how essential it is to constantly update knowledge and skills. I will apply this by continuing education and being proactive in integrating research into my nursing practice to improve patient outcomes.