General Nurses are regularly required to deal with clinical crises, ethical dilemmas and the emotional distress of patients and families. This is particularly true in Cancer Care Chemotherapy Units where nurse patient relationships are seen to have an important therapeutic value. Whilst there are systems in place for professional development in regards to technical aspects of nursing practice in this setting, there has traditionally been little attention given to the interpersonal aspects of such work and the corresponding psychological implications for nurses.

There is evidence to support both the benefits of reflective practice and the transformative potential of group work, yet the focus of previous research has concentrated on nursing education contexts with very few studies exploring the effectiveness of groups as a reflective forum for nurses in the clinical setting. 

Reflective Practice Groups have been running for nursing staff at Nambour Cancer Care over almost three years.  The groups were commenced in response to a need identified by nursing staff working in the area, and have evolved through a process of discussion, education and negotiation in collaboration with the Cancer Care Clinical Coach for that area.  This is one of seven Reflective Practice groups currently running at Nambour Hospital, and utilises a process-focussed, whole-of-group approach to facilitation to foster cohesion and support, stimulate clinical and ethical debate and tap the collective wisdom of the group to reflect on difficult clinical situations. 

The associated research project is currently well into it’s second phase, with data gathered using a validated evaluation questionnaire (the CSEQ) to be complimented by participant focus groups and feedback from key staff outside of the groups. The research explores the perceived effectiveness of the groups and explores factors that might impact on group effectiveness. The eventual aim is to develop a model for RP groups that has utility for a range of nursing settings. 

This presentation will:

• Explore the theoretical concept behind this Reflective Practice Group Model
• Provide an overview of the practicalities of running the groups
• Examine the experience of participants and facilitator, drawing on the evidence gained to date.