The 'shift reflection' model of group reflective practice: a pilot study in an acute mental health setting (Power, 2021)
Ragoobar Rawle Turton Robert Winter Helen Power Nicola Belton Catherine Chow Claudia Beck Alison.
Mental Health Practice 2021;24(1): 25-32.
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Background: 'Shift reflection' is a novel, structured method of group reflective practice at the end of a shift. It involves a facilitator asking open questions about the shift, then using a mapping process to draw and make connections between the experiences of staff.
Aim: To undertake a pilot study of shift reflection in an acute mental health unit and to gather feedback from staff and service users on its effect on staff well-being, teamwork and ward culture.
Method: A mixed-methods design was used. Staff members provided feedback using the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale, completed pre-pilot (n=10) and post-pilot (n=14), a staff feedback questionnaire (n=14) and a focus group (n=7). Data from the questionnaires were examined using descriptive statistics and effect sizes, while the focus group data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Findings: The preliminary findings suggest that shift reflection was effective in supporting staff and that it improved team cohesion and morale. The ProQOL scale results indicated a small increase in compassion satisfaction, a medium reduction in secondary traumatic stress and a large reduction in burnout scores post-pilot. Five themes emerged from the focus group: value of shift reflection; team benefits; supportive role of facilitation; implementation challenges; and future directions. Conclusion: While several challenges in implementing shift reflection were identified, the findings of this pilot study provide a foundation for developing and testing its effectiveness in future research.