Date of Learning: 16/09/25

Time: 09:00-16:30

Title of learning activity: AM: Understanding Complex Needs PM Decision Making in care for NA

Diary of Learning activity

The session began with an introduction by the lecturer, who explained how she can be contacted for support. Various channels were highlighted, including email, Microsoft Teams chat, and Teams calls. This provided reassurance about accessibility and ongoing guidance.

Understanding Complex Needs

A key focus was on Understanding Complex Needs within the Nursing Associate Standards. The lecturer emphasised that Properties 1, 5, and 6 are especially relevant for our upcoming written assessment. Importantly, all assessments should be written in the third person.

Linking to Practice

We were reminded that it is essential to demonstrate how patients’ needs can be linked to the different roles within the multidisciplinary team (MDT), including:

• Nurses

• Doctors

• Social workers

• Service users

• Carers

This highlighted the importance of integrated care and collaborative practice when addressing complex needs.

Assessment Guidance

The lecturer explained the two main assessments:

• Summative Assignment which requires at lest:

  1. The use of 25 references. 2. Must clearly demonstrate integration of theory and practice.

• Formative Presentation:

  • A preparatory task designed to build confidence before the summative work.

Afternoon Session

In the afternoon, we focused on the Electronic Practice Assessment Document (EPAD), identifying areas for professional development that we should concentrate on.

Decision-making was introduced, along with an explanation of the specific properties that will be assessed. This reinforced the need to apply critical thinking and professional judgement in practice.

Reflection

Overall, the session was informative and well-structured. It not only clarified the expectations for assessments but also deepened my understanding of complex needs, the role of the MDT, and the significance of decision-making in nursing practice. I feel more confident about approaching the assignments and linking theory to practice through reflection and critical analysis.

KSBs

K1: Understand the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and how to fulfill all registration requirements

K4: Understand the principles of research and how research findings are used to inform evidence-based practice

K41: Know the roles, responsibilities and scope of practice of different members of the nursing and interdisciplinary team, and own role within it

K42: Understand and apply the principles of human factors and environmental factors when working in teams

K43: Understand the influence of policy and political drivers that impact health and care provision Skills

S1: Act in accordance with the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and fulfil all registration requirements

S4: Take responsibility for continuous self-reflection, seeking and responding to support and feedback to develop professional knowledge and skills

S29: Give information and support to people who are dying, their families and the bereaved and provide care to the deceased

S32: Work collaboratively and in partnership with professionals from different agencies in interdisciplinary teams

S34: Act in line with local and national organisational frameworks, legislation and regulations to report risks, and implement actions as instructed, following up and escalating as required

S43: Contribute to team reflection activities to promote improvements in practice and services