EFFECTIVE LIFELONG LEARNING WITHIN NURSING ROLE

Effective Lifelong Learning within Nursing Role



Effective Lifelong Learning within Nursing Role

Introduction

Lifelong learning has been described as the ability to rise to changing circumstances with flexibility, to learn all the way through a career, and to integrate theory and practice…to cope with previously unmet circumstances competently (Bligh, 1982), but also broadly speaking, embracing learning in different informal, formal, opportunistic and planned settings (Candy et. al., 1994). Lifelong learning has increasingly gained prominent position in the nursing profession as a concept and a practical activity due to continuing changes and development in health care delivery (Gopee, 2001, p. 607). A focus on continuous learning is essential to remain current on practices, trends, and the latest treatments in the nursing field.

Lifelong learning is closely associated with the evolving nature of healthcare delivery in the National Health Service. Healthcare professionals have significant roles in managing the issues of lifelong learning and continuing education and should be prepared to work and make decisions in collaboration with caregivers, patients, families, policymakers, inter- professional care teams, and others. Lifelong learning in nursing requires nurses to be engaged in professional learning constantly throughout their career so as to keep their skills and knowledge up to date. The NMC requires that in the UK, all nursing students, throughout their training, develop lifelong learning skills and are skilled lifelong learners at the point of qualification. In this paper, the attributes and skills that are required for becoming an effective lifelong learner are discussed.

Discussion

According to Gopee (2001), characteristics treasured by lifelong learners consist of the following: flexibility, innovation, change agency, creativity, adaptability, accountability and self-reliance (Gopee, 2001, pp. 612). The development of professional nurses is enhanced by each of these characteristics who are equipped for health care delivery in a technologically advanced, continuously evolving society. Reflective, communication, listening, intellectual, observational and professionalism skills are other attributes that are required by a lifelong learner within nursing role.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Lifelong learners exhibit effective communication skills. They are equipped to communicate information, concepts and ideas to their patients, family, peers, colleagues and other healthcare professionals. Language and listening skills are extremely important for a nurse. I have to develop effective communication skills to be able to communicate with patients, doctors, and my co- workers in a very fast paced environment. In deliverance of good quality nursing care, communication and interpersonal skills are fundamental factors. Communication is identified by NMC as one of the vital attributes that must be acquired by students so as to make progress throughout their nursing career.

The nursing profession also requires building of a strong interpersonal relationship with the patient. Understanding and connecting with the feelings and concerns of patients is a skill that is a must for all nurses. I believe that I have to develop strong inter personal skills for the sake of lifelong learning within my professional role of nursing (Hart, 2010, pp. 10). The nurses are expected to support and cater to the patient's ...