Key points on being a reflective practitioner

Reflective practice does not have to be daunting.

Reflection is personal and there is no single way you should reflect.

Your medical school will support you in developing the skill of reflection.

Taking time to reflect on experiences that have made you think or question your ideas or values is important for your individual wellbeing and development as a professional.

When keeping a note, you should anonymise the information as far as possible.

A reflective note does not need to describe full details of an experience. It should capture what you have learned and any planned actions arising from the experience.

Group reflection often leads to ideas or actions that can improve patient care.

Reflection should not substitute or override other processes that are necessary to record, escalate or discuss significant events and serious incidents.