It is important for nurses to reflect on experiences and new knowledge gained in order to promote professional growth.
Course Competencies:
· Analyze the increased complexity of care among older adults.
· Compare care models for nursing practice specific to the older adult.
· Design plans for care specific to the older adult.
· Identify local, state, and national resources which facilitate safe and effective transitions of care for older adults.
· Incorporate professional values, attitudes, and expectations regarding ageism when caring for the older adult.
· Outline the importance of advocating for older adults in management of their care.
Transferable Skill:
· Information Literacy: Discovering information reflectively, understanding how information is produced and valued, and using information to create new knowledge and participate ethically in communities of learning.
Instructions:
Reflect on your development as a nursing professional and address the following in a 1-2 page paper:
1. Describe how you achieved each of the course competencies and the transferable skill.
2. Provide at least one example of new knowledge gained related to each competency and explain how this new knowledge will impact your nursing practice.
Nurses to reflect on experiences and new knowledge gained in order to promote professional growth
### Reflective Paper on Professional Development in Nursing
#### Achieving Course Competencies and Transferable Skill
As a nursing professional, I have grown significantly through the competencies and skills developed in this course. This reflection highlights how I achieved each course competency and the transferable skill of information literacy, along with examples of new knowledge gained and their impact on my nursing practice.
#### 1. Analyzing the Increased Complexity of Care Among Older Adults
**Achievement**: I have learned to analyze the multifaceted aspects of care required by older adults, considering their physical, psychological, and social needs.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Understanding the polypharmacy challenges that older adults face, including drug interactions and adverse effects, has been crucial.
**Impact on Practice**: This knowledge helps me to meticulously review medications, advocate for regular medication reviews, and collaborate with pharmacists to ensure safe prescribing practices for older adults.
#### 2. Comparing Care Models for Nursing Practice Specific to the Older Adult
**Achievement**: I have explored various care models, such as the Acute Care for Elders (ACE) unit and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).
**Example of New Knowledge**: Learning about the PACE model, which integrates comprehensive medical and social services to support older adults in the community, was particularly enlightening.
**Impact on Practice**: This knowledge enables me to recommend appropriate care models tailored to individual needs, promoting holistic and patient-centered care for older adults.
#### 3. Designing Plans for Care Specific to the Older Adult
**Achievement**: I have developed skills in creating individualized care plans that address the unique needs of older adults.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Gaining insights into the importance of incorporating geriatric assessments into care planning to evaluate cognitive function, mobility, and social support systems.
**Impact on Practice**: This approach allows me to design comprehensive care plans that not only address medical needs but also enhance quality of life by focusing on functional abilities and social well-being.
#### 4. Identifying Local, State, and National Resources for Safe and Effective Transitions of Care
**Achievement**: I have learned to identify and utilize various resources that facilitate safe transitions of care for older adults.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Discovering resources like the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) and the role of transitional care nurses.
**Impact on Practice**: By leveraging these resources, I can better coordinate care transitions, ensuring continuity of care and reducing readmissions for older adult patients.
#### 5. Incorporating Professional Values, Attitudes, and Expectations Regarding Ageism in Care
**Achievement**: I have developed an understanding of the impact of ageism and how to incorporate respect and dignity into the care of older adults.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Learning about the effects of ageist attitudes on health outcomes and the importance of combating stereotypes in healthcare settings.
**Impact on Practice**: This knowledge empowers me to advocate for a culture of respect and inclusivity, ensuring that older adults receive equitable and compassionate care.
#### 6. Outlining the Importance of Advocating for Older Adults in Management of Their Care
**Achievement**: I have enhanced my advocacy skills to better represent and support the needs of older adults in healthcare settings.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Understanding the legal and ethical aspects of advocating for older adults’ rights and autonomy.
**Impact on Practice**: This enables me to effectively advocate for patient-centered care plans, informed consent, and respect for the wishes and preferences of older adult patients.
#### Information Literacy
**Achievement**: I have honed my skills in discovering, evaluating, and applying information to improve patient care and contribute to the nursing profession.
**Example of New Knowledge**: Learning to critically appraise research articles and apply evidence-based practices in geriatric nursing.
**Impact on Practice**: This skill allows me to stay updated with the latest research, apply best practices, and educate colleagues and patients on evidence-based care strategies.
#### Conclusion
Reflecting on these competencies and the transferable skill of information literacy, I recognize the significant growth in my ability to provide comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-based care for older adults. The new knowledge gained in each area will continually influence and enhance my nursing practice, ensuring that I deliver the highest quality of care to this vulnerable population.
### References
American Nurses Association. (2015). *Code of ethics for nurses with interpretive statements*. Silver Spring, MD: Author. Retrieved from https://www.nursingworld.org/coe-view-only
Kelly, P., & Porr, C. (2018). Ethical nursing care versus cost containment: Considerations to enhance RN practice. *OJIN: Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 23*(1), Manuscript 6. https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol23No01Man06
Milliken, A. (2018). Ethical awareness: What it is and why it matters. *OJIN: Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 23*(1), Manuscript 1. https://doi.org/10.3912/OJIN.Vol23No01Man01
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