Reflection in an intermediate care team

ObjectivesReflection has been cited as an effective method of providing evidence of professional development, learning and continued competence. Reflection in teams is thought to develop trust within the team and greater understanding of other team members’ roles and responsibilities. The aim of this qualitative study was to describe the experiences and perceptions of reflection by members of an intermediate care team.DesignPhenomenological design, consisting of individual semi-structured audiotaped interviews. The interviews were transcribed and read to gain understanding. Themes were identified and grouped into categories.ParticipantsTen members of a multidisciplinary intermediate care team were interviewed.FindingsTeam reflection had not been developed formally in the intermediate care team, although many of the prerequisites for team reflection were present. Team members primarily used dialogical reflection in clinical practice as a problem-solving tool. Written reflection was limited, with its use being dependent on the skills, level of training and postqualification support of the participants.ConclusionA formal structure and managerial support is necessary to facilitate team reflection. Additional postgraduate support is required to enable team members to utilise written reflection effectively. Further research to investigate reflection in health and social care teams is warranted.