Utilizing reflective practice to obtain competency in neonatal nursing

The ability to reflect is an important component for the development of competency. Reflection is a process that involves thinking about the thoughts that occur as a situation or event is unfolding. Reflection can also occur following the event. Using reflection as a learning tool, the progression from beginner practitioner to expert and proficient practitioner can be developed. As NICU nurses and healthcare professionals, we provide care to the most vulnerable patients that require a specific body of knowledge to ensure high quality. Such knowledge is acquired, maintained and advanced through lifelong learning in practice and research. The goal of this article is to provide the reader with a sound knowledge base of reflection that will help meet professional, organizational and individual demands of being a safe and competent neonatal nurse.