PART 3 – PLACEMENT 1 – 2024 SEPT – Managing Patient Expectations and Difficult Conversations in GP Practice
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 GP placement (October 2024), I encountered multiple situations where patients expressed frustration over appointment availability, medication delays, and treatment expectations. As a frontline nursing student, I had to manage these interactions while maintaining professionalism and ensuring the patients felt heard. These experiences challenged my communication, conflict resolution, and de-escalation skills.
What did you learn from the CPD activity and/or feedback and/or event or experience in your practice?
I learned that active listening and empathy are crucial in managing difficult conversations. Applying Egan’s Skilled Helper Model (2002), I focused on creating a non-judgemental environment, acknowledging patient concerns, and offering realistic solutions. Additionally, observing senior staff helped me recognise the value of open-ended questioning and de-escalation techniques in diffusing tense interactions.
How did you change or improve your practice as a result?
Following these experiences, I became more confident in handling patient dissatisfaction professionally. I adopted a structured approach by validating concerns, offering clear explanations, and setting realistic expectations regarding NHS service limitations. Moving forward, I plan to refine these skills through formal training in de-escalation techniques and patient communication workshops.
How is this relevant to the Code?
- Prioritise people: Ensuring that patient concerns are acknowledged and addressed respectfully.
- Preserve safety: Managing difficult conversations effectively prevents potential conflicts or escalations in care settings.
- Promote professionalism and trust: Communicating transparently and calmly enhances patient confidence in healthcare providers.
This reflection highlights the importance of communication and de-escalation skills in managing patient expectations and maintaining professionalism in challenging conversations.
Sources Used:
1️⃣ PART 3 – PLACEMENT 1 – 2024 SEPT – Reflection on Learning from Others 2.pdf
- Documented observations of senior staff managing patient complaints and difficult conversations.
- Highlighted how staff used de-escalation techniques, open-ended questioning, and active listening.
2️⃣ PART 3 – PLACEMENT 1 – 2024 SEPT – Reflection on Meeting Professional Values.pdf
- Addressed handling patient frustrations with professionalism and ensuring clear, respectful communication.
- Reinforced the importance of maintaining trust and transparency in primary care settings.
3️⃣ PART 3 – PLACEMENT 1 – 2024 SEPT – Final Interview – Student Reflection.pdf
- Included supervisor feedback on patient interactions and the importance of managing expectations.
- Acknowledged areas for improvement in de-escalation strategies and patient reassurance.
4️⃣ PART 3 – PLACEMENT 1 – 2024 SEPT – Mid-point Interview – Student Reflection.pdf
- Provided self-reflection on struggling with difficult conversations in early placement stages.
- Recognised progress in active listening and patient-centred communication.