Reflective Practice
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Select TWO of the SDGs that resonates most powerfully with your individual vision and passion? Answer the specific questions for ongoing reflection as
outlined in the chapter 30. For example: SDG1 No poverty the questions for ongoing reflection includes the following:
How do I feel about the poor and economically disadvantaged?
What assumptions and judgments do I make about the poor that will prevent
me from being an effective global nurse?
What are my fears related to poor people?
Which implications of poverty can I alleviate with a nursing sensibility?
Is it my responsibility to address and work for no poverty for all?
What is the first step I can take toward realizing the SDG most important to me? With whom can I partner? When will I do this? How will I evaluate myself?
Sample Solution
When reflecting on the plight of the poor and economically disadvantaged, I cannot help but feel a sense of sorrow. Knowing that there are people in this world who struggle everyday to provide food, shelter, and basic necessities for their families fills me with both sadness and motivation. As a global nurse, I strive to be an advocate for these individuals by providing compassionate care and advocating for social change.
However, it is important to recognize the potential biases that may hinder my ability to effectively care for patients from different economic backgrounds. Through reflection and self-awareness, I must work hard to challenge any assumptions or judgments about individuals living in poverty that can prevent me from being an effective global nurse. This includes recognizing how privilege has shaped my perspectives on poverty as well as avoiding making generalizations about the individual based on their economic situation.
Rather than viewing those who are economically disadvantaged through broad strokes – such as labeling them ‘poor’ – it is important to take time to get to know each patient individually while taking into consideration their unique cultural backgrounds and personal experiences when providing care. For example, rather than assuming a patient will not be able to afford certain treatments or medications due solely to financial constraints; It is important that nurses become knowledgeable regarding what resources are available (such health insurance options) and make sure they have done all they can do in order to ensure access to quality healthcare services without discriminating against any patient regardless of their socio-economic status (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development,[OECD], 2019). Furthermore, understanding root causes of poverty such as gender inequality or lack of access to educational opportunities also enables nurses move beyond simply dealing with symptoms towards developing lasting solutions which improve lives directly affected by poverty (World Health Organization [WHO], 2020).
In conclusion, it is essential that global nurses develop empathy while working with those living in poverty while also challenging any existing biases preventing us from providing holistic care which values every individual regardless of their socio-economic background. By drawing upon our own experiences combined with research knowledge we can create meaningful programs which empower communities towards progress instead merely treating symptoms associated with poverty.
How can I use my talents, skills and knowledge to support this SDG?
I can volunteer my time at a local food bank or soup kitchen to help provide meals for those in need. Additionally, I can donate money to organizations that focus on poverty relief.
• What would it look like if everyone was successful in achieving this goal?
If everyone was successful in achieving the goal of ending poverty, then there would be a big decrease in inequality across the world. People who live in poverty would be able to access resources such as education, healthcare, and food which will all contribute towards improving their standard of living. There would also be increased opportunities for employment which could further reduce global poverty rates.
