Professional Nurse PracticeQuestion 1A professional nurse has a leadership role that involves providing patient care in multiple settings to improve health outcomes. They therefore require attributes that translate into lifelong learning, research, health policy, individual development of self and other people. Must possess attributes that include good problem solving skills, critical analysis skills, knowledgeable and able to share knowledge, be aware of ethical guidelines, effective interpersonal skills, self-confidence, effective communication skills, sensitivity to multicultural factors , computer literacy, leadership skills and teamwork, among others. Nurses need interpersonal skills to be able to manage conflicts, which are difficult to avoid in the workplace. This is because there is diversity of race, cultural and social characteristics that tend to clash from time to time. They should be knowledgeable and be able to share and use this knowledge in their work. Teamwork is very important and being an effective team player is important because it allows nurses to maintain a friendly working environment to achieve set goals. They must be presentable, as image is very important in the role of a nurse. They should be physically and emotionally strong and have a positive attitude so as to maintain a positive work environment. They must be accountable, to themselves and others, as they are responsible for ensuring that workplace safety is maintained and that quality healthcare service is provided to patients. These attributes also help promote health and achieve individual goals and outcomes and those of others (Sivamalai, 2008). Question 2Critical thinking and reflection constitute self-evaluation, recognizing the significance of research in practice and professional development. Reflecting on nursing or midwifery practice and acknowledging the feelings, beliefs and achievements of others is good for the profession. Critical thinking has been in use in nursing and midwifery practice for many years. Thinking is vital for reflection. Being able to think systematically and rationally brings about a sense of reflective consciousness. Critical thinking improves safe practice and competence among nurses and midwives. It allows them to make safe and efficient decisions about their work. It involves scientific reasoning, using the nursing process, making decisions, and reasoning about issues. It allows nurses to make rational decisions about the most effective ways to achieve their goals. Reflection in nursing and midwifery facilitates technical oversight and improvement of procedural approaches to their work.
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