Looking Back in a Professional Lens

I performed a professional reflective audit by answering some basic questions. I thought this reflection exercise provided a thorough overview on how I have developed in a leadership role and the many moving parts I need to monitor. Looking back at my answers, I would also like to mention that the below blog is only a portion of what I believe is significant part of my professional accountability.

---

In the dynamic world of healthcare management, accountability and collaboration are at the core of providing the best possible care for patients. As a dedicated leader, I firmly believe in taking full responsibility for my actions and ensuring a supportive environment for my team.

Join me on this journey as I share my experiences and insights into the realm of healthcare management.

A Manager's Responsibility

As a manager, I recognize that my role extends far beyond overseeing day-to-day operations. It's about supporting the immediate staff around me, empowering them to deliver the best care they can . This mission involves several key elements:

1. My own Professionalism : . Setting the tone for the entire team and ensures that quality care remains the top priority. Think of the importance to the environment!

2. Needs Assessment: Validating that our team have all the tools necessary to complete their tasks. Whether its equipment or education.

3. Open-Door Policy: I strongly believe in an open-door policy. It encourages clear communication and allows my team to voice their concerns, ideas, and feedback freely. Collaboration thrives in an environment where everyone's voice is heard.

Accountability to Licensing and Union Guidelines

As a licensed nurse registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), I've been part of a governing body that requires a license to practice. Additionally, I've been a proud member of the Ontario Nurses Association (ONA), a union that safeguards nurses' rights through collective agreements.. My accountability extends to both the staff I manage and the ethical standards set by these organizations.

In my current position, I find reassurance in having a director who provides constructive feedback when needed. However, there's also a lingering sense of vulnerability due to my interim status, knowing that my position could change at any moment. It's a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of the healthcare field.

Collaboration Across Healthcare Professions

I currently work closely with a diverse healthcare team, including nurses, Occupational Therapists (OT), Social Workers (SW), Nurse Practitioners (NP), Physical Therapists (PT), and various other healthcare professionals. This collaboration is especially critical in the context of transitional care, where we focus on ensuring the safe discharge of patients back to their homes.

Our collaborative discussions, whether in person or through email, are the vital pieces necessary for patient care. We leverage each other's expertise and backgrounds to navigate the complexities of healthcare. Each profession brings a unique perspective to the table, improving the problem-solving abilities and ultimately benefiting our patients.

Through my journey in healthcare management, I've learned firsthand the importance of engaging with different professions during periods of change management. These interactions are not just about problem-solving; they are about building a stronger, more resilient healthcare system.