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Sample Driscoll’s Model Nursing Reflection Paper

Driscoll’s Model focuses on three key questions: What? So what? and Now what? This model encourages nurses to describe the experience, explore its significance, and determine how to apply the lessons learned in future practice.

Review: Nursing Reflective Writing Guide

Driscoll’s Model Nursing Reflection Paper Outline

Topic: Ethical Challenges in Pediatric Nursing: A Nursing Reflection

  1. Introduction:
    • Introduce the importance of ethical decision-making in pediatric nursing
    • State the focus of the reflection paper: Exploring ethical challenges in pediatric nursing
  2. What? Description of the experience:
    • Provide an overview of the pediatric nursing setting and the specific situation or ethical dilemma encountered
    • Describe the context, individuals involved, and any relevant background information
    • Explain the ethical principles or considerations at play in the situation
  3. So What? Analysis of the experience:
    • Reflect on your initial thoughts and emotions when faced with the ethical challenge
    • Explore personal and professional values and beliefs related to the ethical dilemma
    • Analyze the significance and impact of the situation on patient care and ethical decision-making
  4. Now What? Future actions and lessons learned:
    • Identify the key lessons and insights gained from the ethical challenge
    • Reflect on how the experience has influenced your understanding of ethical decision-making in pediatric nursing
    • Discuss what changes you would make in your approach to similar situations in the future
  • Note: The outline provided follows Driscoll’s Model of Reflection and can be adapted to your specific experience and ethical challenges encountered in pediatric nursing.

Driscoll’s Model Nursing Reflection Paper Example

I. Introduction:

Ethical decision-making is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice, particularly in the specialized field of pediatric nursing. Caring for children and their families involves unique ethical challenges and requires nurses to navigate complex dilemmas while prioritizing the best interests and well-being of their young patients (Butts & Rich, 2020; Coyne et al., 2018). This reflection paper aims to explore the ethical challenges encountered in pediatric nursing and delve into the decision-making process using Driscoll’s Model of Reflection. By reflecting on specific experiences and examining personal values and beliefs, this reflection will provide valuable insights into the complexities of ethical decision-making in pediatric nursing and how these experiences shape future practice.

II. What? Description of the Experience:

In the realm of pediatric nursing, I encountered a thought-provoking ethical challenge that left a lasting impact on my practice. The specific situation involved a critically ill child whose parents held different cultural and religious beliefs regarding treatment options. The dilemma arose when the medical team recommended a treatment plan that conflicted with the parents’ preferences and cultural practices. This situation presented a complex interplay between respecting parental autonomy, ensuring the best interest of the child, and upholding ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence (Coyne et al., 2018; Helft & Curlin, 2019). The intricate dynamics of this ethical dilemma highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity, effective communication, and collaboration among the healthcare team and family members to achieve a shared understanding and make informed decisions in the best interest of the child.

III. So What? Analysis of the Experience:

Upon reflection, the ethical challenge encountered in pediatric nursing evoked a range of thoughts and emotions, while highlighting the complexities and impact of ethical decision-making in this specialized field. Initially, I experienced a sense of internal conflict and uncertainty when faced with the clash between the parents’ cultural beliefs and the medical team’s recommendations. This situation prompted a profound exploration of my own values, biases, and assumptions, revealing the importance of self-awareness and introspection in ethical decision-making (Coyne et al., 2018; Helft & Curlin, 2019). The experience also underscored the significance of open and empathetic communication to foster a collaborative approach that respects cultural diversity, enhances trust, and upholds the best interests of the child (Coyne et al., 2018; Helft & Curlin, 2019). Through critical analysis and self-reflection, this experience illuminated the need for ongoing education, cultural competence, and ethical frameworks to guide decision-making in complex and diverse pediatric care settings.

IV. Now What? Future Actions and Lessons Learnt:

The ethical challenge encountered in pediatric nursing has provided valuable lessons and insights that will shape my future practice. Firstly, this experience reinforced the significance of ongoing education and professional development in the realm of ethical decision-making. I recognize the need to deepen my understanding of diverse cultural practices and belief systems, as well as ethical frameworks specific to pediatric care (Helft & Curlin, 2019; Coyne et al., 2018). Moving forward, I am committed to seeking out opportunities for further learning, such as attending workshops and conferences on cultural competence and ethical pediatric care. Additionally, I will actively engage in self-reflection and critical analysis of my own biases and assumptions to ensure they do not unduly influence my decision-making process. By incorporating these lessons, I aspire to provide culturally sensitive and ethically sound care, involving open communication and collaboration with families to ensure the best interests of the child are upheld.

References:

  • Butts, J. B., & Rich, K. L. (2020). Nursing ethics: Across the curriculum and into practice (5th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
  • Coyne, I., Amory, A., Kiernan, G., Gibson, F., McSharry, J., & McNamara, P. (2018). Perspectives of healthcare professionals on the issues and challenges of caring for children with complex care needs: A qualitative study. Journal of Pediatric Nursing, 43, e39-e46.
  • Helft, P. R., & Curlin, F. A. (2019). Ethics, religion, and pediatrics: Intersections and points of tension. Journal of Clinical Ethics, 30(1), 5-13.

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