Reflection in nursing refers to the process of thinking about and learning from past experiences to improve patient care outcomes and develop knowledge in nursing. It is a cognitive skill that demands conscious effort to look at a situation with an awareness of ones own beliefs, values, and practice. Reflection can be done before, during, and after clinical practice, and it can help nurses recognize their own strengths and weaknesses, develop self-directed learning skills, and improve the quality of care they provide.

Key points about reflection in nursing include:

• Purpose: Reflection is a paper requirement of career progression in healthcare, and it is required by the Nursing and Midwifery Council for revalidation every three years. However, it is also a useful tool for learning and improving patient care outcomes.

• Process: Reflection requires immersion within experiences, being fully present with thoughts and feelings, and perceiving how others respond. It assumes a neutral position and does not require a critical incident to have an experience to learn from.

• Levels of reflection: Reflection can be low/descriptive, middle/application, or high/evaluative. High-level reflection involves analysis, evaluation, and/or creation of new approaches or tools to improve clinical practice.

• Benefits: Developing a habit of self-reflection after each shift can help cultivate positive emotions that work to counter burnout and support well-being. It can also help connect nurses to their professional calling and bring meaning and fulfillment to their work and lives.

Overall, reflection is an important aspect of nursing practice that can help nurses learn from experiences, improve patient care outcomes, and develop knowledge in nursing.