Gibbs Reflection Cycle
Choose a critical incident that you have experienced or observed while on professional practice. Reflect on this incident using the structured approach of Gibbs Reflection Cycle. In your analysis stage within this reflection suggest how nursing theory/theories helped or may have helped you to manage this incident.
Reflect on a critical incident that they have experienced during a professional practical placement.
The reflection should contain links to relevant nursing theory and use academic references, to support their position on their ideas, actions or experience in the reflection
Sample Solution
I recently experienced a critical incident during my time on a professional practice placement in which I was faced with an aggressive family member. During this incident, I felt overwhelmed and unsure of how to respond appropriately. After the situation had settled, I utilized the Gibbs Reflection Cycle (1988) to help me make sense of this experience and apply relevant nursing theories that could have helped me manage the situation better.
The first step was for me to describe what happened: A family member of one of my patients became angry and verbally abusive towards myself and a few other members of staff. He shouted at us in front of other patients and visitors, causing everyone to feel uncomfortable in our environment. The next step was for me to think about my feelings which included being shocked by his outburst as well as feeling anxious due to not knowing how best handle such an intimidating behavior.
In terms of analysis, I initially thought it would be best if we ignored him but then reevaluated this decision — since ignoring someone’s anger can often exacerbate their aggression — while recognizing instead that providing some calming words may be more effective than simply walking away from him entirely. Additionally, I thought it would have been beneficial if we demonstrated empathy rather than simply responding harshly or ignoring him altogether, as shown by Person-Centered Theory (Rogers 1961). This theory promotes equal respect between patient/client and nurse/caregiver so that proper communication channels are opened up allowing for open dialogue without fear or judgement.
The fourth stage involved logically considering various alternatives on how best handle such situations in future encounters; ones that involve showing care yet also addressing any inappropriate language used whilst ensuring safety for all those present is maintained throughout process. Finally, once I had evaluated these options thoroughly , the last step required creating an action plan wherein after every shift involving risky situations like these—where emotions run high—reflection should be taken place so lessons learned can be practically applied elsewhere when necessary.