PART 2 – PLACEMENT 3 – ELECTIVE – 2024 AUG – Learning from Stoma Care Specialist
NMC Reflective Account Form
Reflective account:
What was the nature of the CPD activity and/or practice-related feedback and/or event or experience in your practice?
During my stoma care nurse specialist elective (August 2023), I had the opportunity to shadow and assist in the management of patients living with stomas. This included wound care, patient education on stoma maintenance, and addressing concerns related to lifestyle adjustments post-surgery. My involvement in this placement allowed me to develop an understanding of the holistic care required for stoma patients, including physical and emotional support.
What did you learn from the CPD activity and/or feedback and/or event or experience in your practice?
I learned that stoma care is not solely about the clinical aspect but also requires a high level of emotional intelligence and empathy. Patients undergoing stoma formation often experience significant emotional distress, requiring reassurance, guidance, and support in adjusting to their new lifestyle. Applying Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence Model (1998), I recognised the importance of self-awareness, social skills, and empathy in patient-centred care. I also learned practical techniques for managing stoma-related complications, reinforcing my skills in wound assessment and prevention of infections.
How did you change or improve your practice as a result?
Following this experience, I became more attuned to patient-centred communication and the psychological impact of chronic conditions. I applied active listening techniques to help patients express their concerns and adapted my communication style to provide reassurance. I also improved my understanding of specialist wound care, learning techniques such as the correct use of barrier creams, convex appliances, and paste-based dressings to improve stoma function and comfort.
How is this relevant to the Code?
- Prioritise people: Ensuring patient dignity, respect, and individualised care when supporting those adapting to life with a stoma.
- Practise effectively: Applying evidence-based wound care techniques and stoma education to improve patient outcomes.
- Preserve safety: Recognising complications early and educating patients on self-care to prevent infections and stoma-related issues.
This reflection highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and patient-centred support in specialist nursing care, reinforcing my ability to provide compassionate and evidence-based practice.
Sources Used:
- PART 2 – PLACEMENT 3 – ELECTIVE – 2024 AUG – Reflection on Learning from Others 1.pdf
- Documented interactions with stoma care specialists.
- PART 2 – PLACEMENT 3 – ELECTIVE – 2024 AUG – Additional Professional Feedback 1.pdf
- Supervisor feedback on skills observed in wound management.
- PART 2 – PLACEMENT 3 – ELECTIVE – 2024 AUG – Initial Interview.pdf
- Identified personal learning objectives in specialist care.