Grading Rubric Helpers And Sample Table For This 1 ✓ Solved
Grading Rubric Helpers And Sample Table For This 1
After completing the assigned reading, reflect on the concept of professional accountability as it pertains to nursing. Provide examples of how a nurse demonstrates professional accountability in clinical expertise, using the nursing process, and in evidence-based practice. Include at least one reference, correctly formatted in APA, from scholarly sources less than five years old. The writing should be academic, in your own words, with proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. You may answer in narrative format or use a table, but both methods require APA citations and references.
Sample Paper For Above Instruction
Introduction to Professional Accountability in Nursing
Professional accountability in nursing is a critical component that ensures nurses maintain high standards of practice, uphold ethical principles, and deliver quality care to patients. It involves being responsible for one's actions, decisions, and competencies while adhering to established standards and guidelines (Fawcett & DeSanto-Madeya, 2019). The concept of accountability is rooted in professional integrity, ongoing education, and a commitment to patient safety and well-being.
Understanding Professional Accountability in Nursing
In nursing, professional accountability refers to the obligation of nurses to justify their actions and decisions in clinical practice. It encompasses adherence to legal, ethical, and institutional policies, as well as personal responsibility for maintaining competence (Newman & Heath, 2021). This accountability is fundamental to fostering trust with patients, healthcare teams, and the broader community.
Examples of Demonstrating Professional Accountability
Clinical Expertise
One example of demonstrating professional accountability through clinical expertise is a nurse proactively staying current with the latest clinical guidelines and technological advancements. For instance, a nurse performing intravenous placements demonstrates accountability by ensuring proper technique to prevent complications such as infections or infiltration. By continually updating their skills through ongoing education and certification, the nurse exemplifies accountability in clinical competence (Dickinson et al., 2020).
Using the Nursing Process
The nursing process involves assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. A nurse demonstrates accountability by meticulously performing each step to deliver individualized care. For example, during patient assessments, the nurse thoroughly gathers data, accurately documents findings, and formulates appropriate care plans. If a patient's condition changes, the nurse reassesses and modifies interventions accordingly, reflecting responsibility for quality care (Potter et al., 2018).
Utilizing Evidence-Based Practice
In evidence-based practice (EBP), accountability is shown by integrating the latest research into clinical decision-making. A nurse might implement fall prevention strategies supported by current evidence, such as staff education, environmental modifications, and regular patient assessments. By evaluating outcomes and adjusting practices based on new evidence, the nurse ensures safe and effective care, demonstrating accountability in applying best practices (Melnyk & Fineout-Overholt, 2018).
Conclusion
In summary, professional accountability in nursing is vital for ensuring safe, competent, and ethical care. It is demonstrated through clinical expertise, thoughtful application of the nursing process, and incorporation of evidence-based practices. Maintaining accountability fosters trust, enhances patient outcomes, and advances the profession.
References
- Dickinson, G., et al. (2020). Advances in clinical skills and professional accountability in nursing. Journal of Nursing Education, 59(4), 210-215.
- Fawcett, J., & DeSanto-Madeya, S. (2019). Contemporary nursing knowledge: Analysis and evaluation. F.A. Davis Company.
- Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2018). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Wolters Kluwer.
- Newman, M. A., & Heath, C. J. (2021). Ethical and legal issues in nursing practice. Journal of Nursing Law, 24(2), 59-66.
- Potter, P. A., et al. (2018). Fundamentals of nursing. Elsevier Health Sciences.