NMC REFLECTION ON LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT
| Reflective account: |
| What was the nature of the CPD activity and/or practice-related feedback and/or event or experience in your practice? |
| .This reflection relates to a leadership experience I had during my third-year nursing placement on a ward. The event centered around a critical incident where an ECG machine was not readily available during an emergency. This delay prompted me to take the initiative to audit the ward’s medical equipment to ensure all essential items were correctly placed and accessible. I discussed the situation with my assessor, who provided guidance on how to approach the audit systematically. My role involved conducting a thorough inventory of the equipment, engaging the ward staff in the process, and implementing changes to improve equipment management. This experience challenged my leadership and organizational skills, but it also provided an opportunity to grow and develop confidence in a managerial capacity. |
| What did you learn from the CPD activity and/or feedback and/or event or experience in your practice? |
| This experience taught me valuable lessons about leadership, organization, and the importance of clear communication in healthcare settings. I learned that taking initiative is crucial in identifying and resolving issues that can impact patient safety. Feedback from my assessor emphasized the importance of involving the entire healthcare team in the audit process, as it fosters a culture of shared responsibility and continuous improvement. Additionally, I learned that attention to detail and consistency are critical when managing resources in a busy ward environment. The experience also helped me appreciate the need for systematic approaches to problem-solving and the value of keeping accurate records. I began by discussing the incident with my assessor, who guided me on how to approach the audit.
Together, we outlined the objectives: to account for all critical equipment, ensure they were in the correct locations, and implement a system for regular checks. I created a checklist of essential equipment, including ECG machines, defibrillators, and other emergency tools, based on the ward’s needs and standard protocols. Inventory Creation: I conducted a physical walkthrough of the ward, noting down the current locations of all the equipment. This initial inventory helped me identify any discrepancies between where the equipment was supposed to be and where it was actually located. I recorded the details in a logbook, noting the condition of each item and any immediate issues, such as missing or malfunctioning equipment. Engaging the Team: I communicated the purpose of the audit to the ward staff, explaining how it would benefit patient safety and workflow efficiency. I encouraged them to share any concerns or suggestions about equipment management. With the support of my colleagues, we reorganized equipment to ensure everything was in its designated place, easily accessible during emergencies, and not obstructing pathways. Implementation of a Tracking System: I suggested a simple tracking system where staff would sign off on a checklist at the start of each shift, confirming the presence and condition of critical equipment. This system was designed to ensure ongoing accountability and prevent future lapses. Review and Feedback: After completing the audit, I reviewed the findings with my assessor. We discussed the next steps, including periodic reviews and potential improvements to the tracking system based on staff feedback. I documented the entire process, from the initial incident to the audit outcomes, in the patient safety and ward management record. |
| How did you change or improve your practice as a result? |
| This experience significantly enhanced my confidence in handling managerial responsibilities and leading initiatives. I now approach my duties with a more proactive mindset, ensuring that I anticipate and address potential issues before they escalate. My organizational skills have improved, particularly in how I manage resources and coordinate with my team. I’ve also become more comfortable seeking feedback and involving others in problem-solving, recognizing that collaborative efforts lead to better outcomes. This experience has motivated me to continue developing my leadership skills, particularly in areas related to patient safety and operational efficiency. |
| How is this relevant to the Code?
Select one or more themes: Prioritise people – Practise effectively – Preserve safety – Promote professionalism and trust |
| Prioritise People: I prioritized the patient’s safety by ensuring the availability of essential equipment, treating each incident as an opportunity to improve the ward’s operational readiness. Informed consent and clear communication were integral parts of the process, ensuring that both patients and staff understood the changes being made.
Practise Effectively: By regularly checking in with staff and ensuring everyone was informed about the audit and its purpose, I minimized misunderstandings and fostered a cooperative environment. I worked closely with my assessor and the ward team, demonstrating effective collaboration and communication throughout the audit. Accurate and timely documentation of the audit process helped maintain a clear record of actions taken, supporting accountability and continuous improvement. Preserve Safety: The audit directly contributed to a safer ward environment by ensuring that all necessary equipment was in place and functional, reducing the risk of delays in emergencies. Promote Professionalism and Trust: Leading the audit with transparency and involving the team built trust among colleagues, reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility and professionalism in nursing practice. This reflection has been a pivotal moment in my journey as a nursing student, teaching me the importance of leadership, organization, and proactive problem-solving in delivering high-quality patient care.
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