Journal Reflection: Our View of Courageous Care

In the journal article titled "Our View of Courageous Care," authored by Cindy Munro and Richard Savel in 2015, the authors delve into the essentiality of building a robust knowledge base for nursing care, particularly emphasizing the concept of courageous care. The article argues that quality improvement initiatives can significantly enhance patient care by applying relevant knowledge to clinical situations. The authors assert that it is crucial to evaluate theoretically appealing interventions to either substantiate or challenge the effectiveness of established healthcare practices. A pertinent question they raise is the evidence supporting the optimal turning frequency for critically ill patients, illustrating the need for continued inquiry in nursing practices.

Understanding Courageous Care

The authors discuss the widely adopted practice of providing quiet time for critically ill patients during the day to facilitate rest. However, they note a lack of research evaluating the effectiveness of dimming lights and encouraging daytime sleep, which may disrupt circadian rhythms, leading to persistent sleep pattern issues. They stress the importance for nurses to embody courageous care as individuals and serve as catalysts for this care within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of nurses to ensure that all team members practice to the fullest extent of their education and training.

This journal aligns with the Care Enhancement Qualities framework, specifically focusing on managing and negotiating the healthcare delivery system. The authors exhibit a commitment to exploring knowledge applicable to real-world situations, emphasizing the need to modify or improve existing practices for the benefit of patients. Below is a summary of key points discussed in the article:

• Importance of quality improvement in nursing care.
• Need for evidence-based practices in interventions.
• Role of nurses in promoting courageous care.
• Impact of healthcare delivery systems on patient outcomes.

Quality Improvement and Its Role in Courageous Care

As previously mentioned, the authors highlight the need for further research to better understand the risks and benefits of interventions for critically ill patients. They emphasize that quality improvement initiatives can support courageous care by structuring efforts aimed at enhancing care in local settings. The article cites a relevant piece from the American Journal of Critical Care (AJCC), which states that "Critical care nurses often perform most of the care, patient assessment, and evaluations in the ICU, which positions them perfectly to identify, evaluate, initiate, and sustain quality initiatives." Despite this advantageous position, the authors caution that change will not occur unless nurses act with courage.

Quality improvement projects extend the concept of courageous care beyond the individual nurse-patient interaction, offering benefits that reach far beyond the initial objectives. The following table illustrates the relationship between quality improvement and courageous care:

The Role of Nurses in Fostering Courageous Care

From my perspective, the article emphasizes the significance of monitoring and ensuring the quality of healthcare practices, which inherently involves active nurse participation in quality care. It highlights that nurses must seize opportunities to engage in courageous acts consistently, as risks are omnipresent in healthcare settings. While it is possible to attempt to minimize risks, the absence of courage can lead to detrimental consequences for oneself, colleagues, and the patients served. The authors argue that the work environment plays a crucial role in either facilitating or hindering courageous care.

A healthy work environment is vital for patient safety, and it is essential to directly address any elements that undermine such environments. The authors provide an example illustrating that when nurses communicate effectively, they are more capable of articulating their needs for necessary changes and understanding the perspectives of others. In a supportive work environment, nurses actively engage with colleagues, patients, and families to identify and implement solutions to challenges, enhancing patient care quality.

The Importance of Communication in Nursing

This article also touches on the importance of the nurse practitioner-patient relationship. By fostering effective communication, nurse practitioners can create a trusting environment, which is essential for courageous care. Through collaborative efforts, nurses can empower patients by involving them in their care, thereby enhancing the overall healthcare experience.

Courage is an integral aspect of nursing professionalism. Throughout a nurse’s career, there are numerous instances requiring them to undertake challenging tasks that may lead to discomfort. These challenges may include delivering bad news, informing a patient about limited treatment options, or discussing concerning test results. As student nurses, we are called upon to develop these skills now and into the future. We are often regarded as the best communicators, well-equipped to navigate these difficult circumstances.

Conclusion

In summary, the article "Our View of Courageous Care" by Cindy Munro and Richard Savel offers valuable insights into the significance of courageous care in nursing practice. By embracing quality improvement initiatives and fostering a healthy work environment, nurses can enhance patient care and advocate for the needs of their patients. Courageous care is not just about individual actions but involves a collective commitment to improving healthcare delivery systems and patient outcomes.

References:

• Munro, C., & Savel, R. (2015). Our View of Courageous Care. Journal of Nursing Care Quality.
• American Journal of Critical Care. (Year). Title of the article. AJCC.