Reflection and mental health nursing. Part 6: the importance of reflective evidence

One of the most important ways that a mental health nurse develops their clinical expertise is by reflecting on their professional experiences. Previous articles in this series have examined some of the key elements of reflection and how these can be developed and incorporated into routine clinical practice for ongoing development. This formative approach to reflective practice helps build clinical expertise as a nurse moves from novice student to expert practitioner. While post-registration degrees and courses can help a nurse gain new ideas and knowledge, it is the learning gained from self-reflection on lived clinical and professional experiences, termed ‘experiential learning’ that will enable a nurse to move along the novice to expert continuum.