D235 Reflection Paper on Interprofessional Communication in Healthcare

D235 Reflection Paper on Interprofessional Communication in Healthcare

Part One: Working Style

A1: What Are My Working Style Results?

Based on the results of my 5 Dynamics assessment, my working style reflects a strategic blend of both effortless and deliberate energy patterns. Specifically, my profile demonstrates effortless intensity in the explore and execute dynamics, deliberate intensity in the excite dynamic, and deliberate+ intensity in the examine dynamic. This combination highlights my ability to generate ideas naturally, analyze information thoughtfully, engage others intentionally, and complete tasks efficiently.

The explore dynamic with effortless intensity suggests that once I begin exploring a concept or problem, I remain intrinsically motivated to seek solutions without external pressure. This allows me to innovate and adapt quickly in academic and professional environments. The deliberate nature of my excite dynamic reflects a conscious effort to energize teams by sharing ideas, encouraging discussion, and promoting collaboration. Similarly, the deliberate+ intensity in the examine dynamic demonstrates my preference for critically evaluating information, questioning assumptions, and organizing data before making decisions. Finally, the execute dynamic operating at an effortless level enables me to translate plans into action efficiently while minimizing disruptions.

Table 1
Overview of 5 Dynamics Working Style Results

A2: How Do I Reflect on My Working Style Results?

Two primary strengths emerge from my working style profile. First, my effortless explore energy allows me to quickly identify possibilities and generate solutions during the early stages of projects. This contributes to confidence and momentum, creating a cycle of productivity and satisfaction. Second, my effortless execute dynamic supports timely task completion, which strengthens trust and reliability within a team setting.

These results closely align with my approach to managing academic coursework and professional responsibilities. Rather than delaying tasks, I prefer to review expectations immediately and organize my workflow accordingly. However, one area of challenge arises when I am presented with a high volume of information in a limited timeframe. To address this, I intentionally incorporate short breaks, repetition, and active engagement strategies. For example, I benefit from sitting near the front during lectures, recording sessions, and reviewing key concepts afterward. This reflective awareness allows me to adapt my learning strategies to maintain performance under pressure.

A3: What Working Styles Do I Prefer in Teammates?

An ideal team environment, in my view, consists of individuals who collectively represent all working style dynamics. I value teammates who are open-minded, willing to brainstorm, and capable of expressing ideas respectfully. Psychological safety is essential, as it ensures that every team member feels heard and valued.

When differences of opinion arise, I encourage transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving. Rather than viewing disagreement as conflict, I see it as an opportunity to integrate diverse perspectives and arrive at more effective solutions. This approach supports interprofessional collaboration, which is critical in healthcare settings where teamwork directly impacts patient outcomes.

Part Two: Communication

A4A: What Is My Listening Mode?

Throughout my nursing career, I have participated in emotionally complex conversations that required intentional listening. One notable experience involved an end-of-life care discussion with a resident’s family and a hospice nurse. The conversation required sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the family’s spiritual beliefs. In this situation, I primarily utilized a listening-to-learn mode, focusing on gathering factual information while also recognizing emotional cues.

A4B: How Did Listening Impact My Learning?

Active listening enabled me to fully understand the family’s values, preferences, and expectations, even when they differed from my personal beliefs. This deeper understanding allowed the healthcare team to design a care plan that honored the resident’s wishes while maintaining professional standards. Listening attentively fostered trust and ensured that all stakeholders felt respected and included in the decision-making process.

A4C: How Has Listening Affected My Relationships?

Practicing intentional listening has positively influenced my interpersonal relationships. Allowing others to express their thoughts and emotions without interruption helps me understand not only the content of their message but also the underlying feelings. This approach strengthens rapport, reduces misunderstandings, and supports authentic communication in both professional and personal relationships.

A5A: What Is My Speaking Mode?

One challenging workplace interaction involved a coworker justifying calling out of work while engaging in social activities, which later became public through social media. When I attempted to offer an alternative perspective, the discussion escalated. In this instance, my speaking shifted from informative to defensive, as the focus moved toward managing conflict rather than fostering dialogue.

A5B: What Have I Learned from Speaking?

This experience highlighted the importance of self-awareness during difficult conversations. While I strive to consider multiple viewpoints, I have learned that not all conflicts require mediation. Encouraging direct communication between involved parties can often lead to greater accountability and understanding. Although resolutions are not always ideal, constructive dialogue increases the likelihood of mutual respect.

A5C: How Does My Speaking Affect Relationships?

My speaking style varies depending on the audience and context. Adapting tone, language, and delivery allows me to communicate effectively while maintaining respect and clarity.

Table 2
Adaptation of Speaking Style by Audience

A6: How Do I Apply the Laws of Conversation?

I approach conversations with intentionality, focusing on creating meaningful and productive exchanges. By assessing the audience and emotional context, I aim to build trust and minimize misunderstandings. When bias or miscommunication occurs, I rely on nonverbal cues and emotional awareness to redirect discussions toward value-driven outcomes rather than conversational waste.

A7: How Will I Use New Communication Tools?

I plan to integrate newly learned communication tools in both professional and personal interactions. Applying frameworks such as the Ladder of Listening allows me to remain mindful and emotionally intelligent during conversations. Avoiding unnecessary debates and recognizing physiological and emotional needs helps maintain respectful and constructive dialogue.

Part Three: Course Reflection and Future Application

A8A: What Have I Gained from the Course?

This course significantly enhanced my understanding of effective communication by introducing various listening modes, strategies for mindful conversation, and principles of professional speaking. These skills are essential for fostering positive interprofessional relationships in healthcare.

A8B: What Challenges Did I Face?

One of the most challenging aspects of the course was interpreting my 5 Dynamics learning profile and applying theoretical concepts to real-life experiences. Bridging this gap required reflection and practical application.

A8C: What Is the Most Valuable Course Content?

The most valuable takeaway was recognizing how quickly conversations can shift from productive to wasteful. Understanding the impact of communication on perceptions, trust, and professional relationships was particularly impactful.

A9: How Can I Help Others Using These Skills?

I intend to model compassionate communication and facilitate meaningful dialogue among colleagues and peers. By promoting professionalism and respect, I can support others in developing essential communication skills that are often overlooked.

A10: How Will I Sustain These Skills?

As a unit manager in a long-term care facility, I plan to consistently apply positive communication strategies. This includes encouraging team feedback, actively listening to residents, collaborating across disciplines, and maintaining respectful professional dialogue.

A11: What Areas of Communication and Leadership Do I Need to Improve?

I recognize the need to further strengthen my leadership communication skills to maintain authority while remaining approachable. I aspire to emulate my nursing director’s communication style, which balances confidence, clarity, and inclusivity, ensuring that team members feel informed and supported.

References

Noonan, A. R. (2023). Interprofessional communication and leadership in healthcare: D235 reflection paper. Western Governors University.

O’Daniel, M., & Rosenstein, A. H. (2008). Professional communication and team collaboration. In R. G. Hughes (Ed.), Patient safety and quality: An evidence-based handbook for nurses (pp. 2-271–2-284). Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Salas, E., Sims, D. E., & Burke, C. S. (2005). Is there a “big five” in teamwork? Small Group Research, 36(5), 555–599. https://doi.org/10.1177/1046496405277134