Students are required to submit reflective journal entries at specific points throughout the course. These reflective narratives help students identify important learning events that happen throughout the course and the practicum.
Write a reflective journal (250-500 words) to outline how your experience at your practicum site related to the following reflective questions:
Based on your practicum experience, describe leadership behaviors you have observed from your preceptor and other leaders at the practicum site.
Discuss leadership behaviors you have demonstrated during your practicum experience to communicate a consistent image of the nurse as a leader.
Reflect on the leadership skills you have gained during your practicum experience. Describe two leadership areas in which you would like to further improve. Discuss one way in which you will work to improve in these areas.
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric before beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to Lopes Write. A link to the Lopes Write technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need assistance.
Full Answer Section
Two areas in which I would like to further improve my leadership skills are delegation and assertiveness. While I have made progress in these areas, I recognize that there is still room for growth. To improve my delegation skills, I plan to break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and provide clear expectations to team members. I will also actively seek feedback from colleagues to identify areas for improvement. To enhance my assertiveness, I will practice assertive communication techniques, such as using "I" statements and expressing my needs directly. I will also seek out opportunities to take on leadership roles and advocate for my ideas.
Overall, my practicum experience has been a transformative journey that has shaped me into a more confident and effective leader. I am grateful for the opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and to apply my knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. I am excited to continue developing my leadership abilities and to make a positive impact on the healthcare field.
Sample Answer
Reflective Journal: A Journey in Leadership
My practicum experience has been an invaluable opportunity to observe and practice leadership behaviors firsthand. I have been fortunate to work alongside a preceptor who exemplifies strong leadership qualities, such as empathy, decisiveness, and effective communication. I have also had the chance to interact with other leaders within the organization, each of whom brings unique leadership styles and approaches.
Throughout my practicum, I have strived to embody the role of a nurse leader. I have actively participated in team meetings, offering suggestions and collaborating with colleagues. I have taken initiative in problem-solving and conflict resolution, demonstrating a proactive approach to challenges. Additionally, I have consistently maintained a professional demeanor and positive attitude, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.
One significant leadership skill I have gained during my practicum is the ability to adapt to change and uncertainty. The healthcare environment is constantly evolving, and effective leaders must be able to navigate change with resilience and flexibility. I have also developed my communication skills, both verbal and written. Clear and concise communication is essential for effective leadership, and I have learned to tailor my communication style to different audiences and situations.