Describe how you achieved each course competency including at least one example of new knowledge gained related to that competency

QUESTION

Describe how you achieved each course competency including at least one example of new knowledge gained related to that competency

Describe how you achieved the transferable skill, Communication, including at least one example of new knowledge gained related to the transferable skill

Describe how this new knowledge will impact your nursing practice.

ANSWER

Enhancing Competencies and Transferable Skills in Nursing Practice

Introduction

As a nursing professional, continuously improving and expanding competencies is crucial to delivering high-quality care. In addition, developing transferable skills, such as effective communication, is vital for fostering positive patient outcomes and professional growth. This essay discusses the achievement of course competencies, the development of communication skills, and how the acquired knowledge will positively impact nursing practice.

Achievement of Course Competencies

Throughout my nursing education and professional journey, I have actively pursued the achievement of various course competencies. One key competency I have focused on is patient assessment. Through rigorous coursework and hands-on clinical experiences, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of performing thorough assessments, interpreting findings, and identifying potential health issues. This knowledge has equipped me to recognize subtle changes in patient conditions, enabling early intervention and improved patient outcomes.

Additionally, I have actively pursued the competency of evidence-based practice. By staying updated with the latest research and attending relevant conferences and seminars, I have gained new knowledge about evidence-based interventions and best practices (Majid et al., 2011). For instance, I recently came across a study highlighting the effectiveness of a particular pain management technique for postoperative patients. Implementing this evidence-based intervention in my nursing practice has resulted in improved pain control and increased patient satisfaction.

Development of Communication Skills

Effective communication is a vital transferable skill for nurses as it plays a pivotal role in establishing therapeutic relationships, facilitating collaboration, and ensuring accurate information exchange. To develop my communication skills, I have actively engaged in various activities. For instance, I have participated in communication workshops and courses that focused on empathetic listening, effective verbal and non-verbal communication, and conflict resolution.

One significant new knowledge I gained in relation to communication is the importance of active listening. During a workshop, I learned the significance of giving undivided attention to patients, understanding their concerns, and acknowledging their emotions. This new knowledge has transformed my interactions with patients, allowing me to create a supportive environment where patients feel heard and valued. Consequently, patients have expressed greater satisfaction with their care experience, leading to improved patient-provider relationships and overall well-being.

Impact on Nursing Practice

The acquisition of new knowledge in course competencies and the development of communication skills will significantly impact my nursing practice. By continuously enhancing my patient assessment competencies, I can provide more accurate and timely interventions, leading to better patient outcomes and improved safety (National Academies Press (US), 2003). Staying updated with evidence-based practices empowers me to incorporate the latest research findings into my practice, resulting in more effective and efficient care delivery.

Moreover, the development of effective communication skills allows me to establish trust and rapport with patients, enhancing their overall experience. Active listening skills enable me to understand patients’ needs, concerns, and values better, enabling me to provide patient-centered care (Kourkouta & Papathanasiou, 2014). Furthermore, effective communication fosters collaborative teamwork with colleagues, promoting a positive work environment and better coordination of care.

Conclusion

Continuous learning and development of competencies and transferable skills are fundamental for nursing professionals to deliver exceptional care. Through the achievement of course competencies, such as patient assessment and evidence-based practice, and the development of communication skills, particularly active listening, I have gained new knowledge that will significantly impact my nursing practice. By applying these skills, I can enhance patient outcomes, promote patient-centered care, and foster collaborative teamwork, ultimately improving the overall quality of nursing practice.

References

Kourkouta, L., & Papathanasiou, I. V. (2014). Communication in Nursing Practice. Materia Socio-medica, 26(1), 65. https://doi.org/10.5455/msm.2014.26.65-67 

Majid, S., Foo, S., Luyt, B., Zhang, X., Theng, Y., Chang, Y., & Mokhtar, I. A. (2011). Adopting evidence-based practice in clinical decision making: nurses’ perceptions, knowledge, and barriers. Adopting Evidence-based Practice in Clinical Decision Making: Nurses’ Perceptions, Knowledge, and Barriers, 99(3), 229–236. https://doi.org/10.3163/1536-5050.99.3.010 

National Academies Press (US). (2003). The Core Competencies Needed for Health Care Professionals. Health Professions Education: A Bridge to Quality – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK221519/