Why is self-reflection important in nursing practice as assessed by the NGN?

Self-reflection is a vital practice in nursing that significantly contributes to the growth and improvement of clinical performance. Engaging in self-reflection allows nurses to evaluate their experiences, decisions, and interactions with patients. This process helps identify areas for improvement, enhances critical thinking skills, and fosters personal and professional development.

Through self-reflection, nurses can analyze their strengths and weaknesses, learn from their mistakes, and develop better strategies for patient care. It encourages a deeper understanding of patients' needs and promotes empathy, which can improve the nurse-patient relationship. Ultimately, this continuous cycle of reflection and application leads to enhanced clinical skills and better patient outcomes, which are essential in nursing practice.

The other options, while they may touch on important aspects of nursing practice, do not capture the comprehensive benefits of self-reflection as effectively as promoting growth and improvement.