Reflective Entry Using Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle
1. Formal & Concise (Assignment Style)
Description
A middle-aged patient with a terminal illness was admitted during my placement. The
healthcare team had to address end-of-life care, which was emotionally challenging for the
family.
Feelings
At first, I felt uneasy and worried that such discussions might heighten the family’s distress.
However, observing the team’s professionalism made me appreciate how essential values
are in patient care.
Evaluation
The physician demonstrated courage by discussing the poor prognosis honestly. Nurses
showed compassion through attentive presence and comfort. Integrity was maintained
through transparency and respect for cultural values, while humility was evident in
listening to the family’s views. These qualities fostered trust, dignity, and acceptance.
Analysis
The case illustrated that courage facilitates honest communication, compassion relieves
emotional burden, integrity builds trust, and humility strengthens collaboration. Together,
they created holistic, patient-centered care.
Conclusion
I learned that professional values significantly influence patient outcomes, particularly in
sensitive situations such as terminal illness.
Action Plan
I will develop confidence in addressing difficult topics, practice empathy in all interactions,
uphold ethical standards consistently, and involve patients and families in decision-making.
2. Personal & Reflective (Learning Journal Style)
Description
During my placement, I observed the care of a patient with a terminal illness. The
healthcare team needed to guide the family through difficult end-of-life decisions.
Feelings
I initially felt anxious, unsure how such conversations could be managed without
overwhelming the family. As I observed, I felt inspired by the team’s courage and
compassion, and it made me reflect on the kind of healthcare professional I aspire to be.
Evaluation
The doctor’s courage in speaking truthfully gave the family clarity. Nurses’ compassion—
small gestures like sitting with the patient—offered comfort. Integrity was upheld through
honest communication, while humility was seen in the team’s willingness to listen and
respect the family’s voice. The result was dignified care and emotional acceptance for both
patient and family.
Analysis
This case showed me that values shape outcomes as much as clinical interventions. Courage
allows difficult truths to be shared, compassion provides emotional healing, integrity fosters
trust, and humility ensures collaboration. These traits turn medical care into holistic care.
Conclusion
I realised that being a good healthcare professional is not only about clinical skills but also
about embodying these values. They determine whether care feels cold and distant or
meaningful and healing.
Action Plan
I plan to practice open, honest communication, develop greater empathy, uphold integrity in
all decisions, and approach patients and families with humility. I will seek feedback from
mentors to strengthen these traits in my future practice.
