Reflective practice : a guide for nurses and midwives / by Beverley J. Taylor.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. The Nature of reflection:- Introduction--Defining reflection--Sources of reflection--The value of reflection--Critical thinking and reflection--Summary--2. The nature of nursing and midwifery--Carol--Esther--Michael--Nursing and midwifery--Organisations as work settings--The nature of work constraints--Issues nurses and midwives often face--Some stories exemplifying isssues--Summary--3. Getting ready to reflect--Knowledge of reflective practice--A kitbag of strategies--A reflective task--Structures for reflecting--Determination, courage, a sense of humour and other qualities--The role of a critical friend--Summary--4. Practitioners\' reflections on their personal histories--Esther\'s reflections--Michael\'s reflections--Carol\'s reflections--Please note--Summary--5. The Value of reflection--Reflection is valuable for all practitioners--Reflection is valuable for nurses and midwives--Learning to value yourself--Excuses and remedies--How to enhance your ability, energy, interest, time and courage--Summary--6. Types of reflection--Caution about categories--Knowledge in nursing and midwifery--Knowledge and human interests--Three types of reflection--Choosing a type of reflection--Summary--7. Technical reflection--Review of previous ideas--Creating the process--The process of technical reflection--An example of technical reflection--Applying a technical reflection process--Summary--8. Practical reflection--Review of previous ideas--Adapting the process--The process of practical reflection--An example of practical reflection--Applying a practical reflection process--Some discussion about practical reflection--Summary--9. Emancipatory reflection--Review of previous ideas--Applying the process--The process of emancipatory reflection--An example of emancipatory reflection--Applying an emancipaatory reflection process--Discussion about emancipatory reflection--Summary--10. Experiences and reflections--Sharing stories--Summary--11. Maintaining reflective practice--Affirming yourself as a reflective practitioner--Finding support systems--Sharing reflection--Embodying reflective practice--Summary.

Reflection is taught as a means for nurses to understand the impact of their actions. This practical guide shows nurses and midwives how to develop their reflective skills and how to sustain reflective practice throughout their career.