D235 Reflection Paper on Interprofessional Communication in Healthcare

D235 Reflection Paper on Interprofessional Communication in Healthcare

Student Name

Western Governors University

D235 Interprofessional Communication and Leadership in Healthcare

Prof. Name:

Date

Part One: Working Style

A1. Working Style Results

According to my 5 Dynamics learning report, my working style is represented by four energy patterns: Explore (Effortless), Excite (Deliberate), Examine (Deliberate +), and Execute (Effortless). These dynamics provide insight into how I naturally approach learning, collaboration, and problem-solving tasks.

This combination of dynamics indicates that I am a well-rounded individual who thrives in both the creative and implementation stages of a project. I can transition from generating ideas to executing them with minimal effort, while maintaining deliberate engagement and analysis during the process.

A2. Reflection on Working Style Results

Two of my greatest strengths are my effortless ability to explore and execute. When I begin a new idea or task, creativity flows naturally, allowing me to innovate and develop solutions efficiently. My execution strength enables me to turn ideas into results while ensuring tasks are completed on time and at a high standard. These traits contribute to strong teamwork and mutual accountability, fostering confidence and cohesion among peers.

In contrast, one of my challenges involves processing large amounts of information within a short period, which can lead to cognitive overload. To counter this, I take structured breaks and revisit topics to reinforce understanding. I have found that repetition and reflection enhance my comprehension, particularly during complex lectures.

Additionally, my preferred learning environment is one where focus and engagement are maximized. Sitting at the front of the classroom, recording lectures, and taking concise handwritten notes help me absorb material more effectively. A professor’s enthusiasm and structured delivery style significantly impact my motivation and ability to grasp complex concepts.

A3. Teammates’ Working Style

When collaborating with others, I value balanced team dynamics that integrate all four 5 Dynamics energies. Each member brings a unique perspective, which, when combined, creates a holistic approach to problem-solving.

I thrive in teams that encourage open communication, respect for differing opinions, and collective decision-making. If disagreements arise, I encourage honest dialogue and inclusive discussions so that all voices are acknowledged. A psychologically safe environment ensures that everyone contributes confidently, leading to a shared and satisfying project outcome.

Part Two: Communication

A4A. Listening Mode

During my nursing career, I once participated in a family conference involving end-of-life care discussions for a long-term care resident. The meeting included the resident’s family, a hospice nurse, and myself. The emotional tone was somber, yet professionalism guided our discussion.

I engaged in active listening, focusing on understanding the family’s spiritual values, emotional needs, and desired treatment plan. Without realizing it at the time, I was practicing “listening to learn”—a crucial aspect of therapeutic communication that ensures empathy and accuracy in patient care planning.

A4B. Listening and Learning

Through this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of how empathetic listening fosters trust and collaboration. Although the family’s beliefs differed from my own, I remained open-minded and respectful. This approach allowed for an agreement that honored the patient’s dignity and the family’s wishes. My listening facilitated a shared sense of peace and mutual respect—key elements in patient-centered care.

A4C. Listening and Effect

Over time, adopting a listening-first approach has improved both my professional and personal relationships. Allowing others to express their feelings without interruption builds emotional safety and trust. Understanding the emotions behind the message enables me to respond thoughtfully, ensuring genuine and productive communication.

A5A. Speaking Mode

In one professional instance, a co-worker called out sick but was later seen on social media attending brunch. When she defended her actions, I engaged in an honest conversation to provide perspective. While she perceived it as an invasion of privacy, I maintained a sincere tone, aiming to reduce defensiveness. However, the conversation transitioned from accuracy to pretense, as I sought to avoid conflict rather than confront it directly. This taught me the importance of balancing empathy with accountability when communicating in sensitive situations.

A5B. Speaking and Learning

Through various interactions, I have learned that constructive dialogue requires patience and reflection. When discussions become tense, it is essential to pause, reassess, and reframe the conversation to maintain clarity. While not every interaction results in harmony, facilitating open discussions between differing viewpoints can help foster understanding. Serving as a neutral mediator, when appropriate, can promote resolution and enhance workplace relationships.

A5C. Speaking and Effect

My communication approach adapts depending on the audience. Professionally, I prioritize clarity, respect, and precision. When addressing families, I avoid jargon, speak softly, and encourage questions to ensure understanding. With co-workers, I maintain professionalism while being empathetic to their perspectives. By practicing emotional intelligence and perspective-taking, I am able to connect meaningfully with diverse individuals.

A6. Laws of Conversation

My communication style emphasizes building value-based relationships through understanding and trust. I consciously assess my audience’s needs, emotions, and cues to ensure my responses are relevant and respectful. By avoiding assumptions and emotional biases, I prevent the cycle of waste—miscommunication, frustration, or disconnection. When tension arises, I focus on reestablishing trust through empathy, self-awareness, and nonverbal alignment.

A7. Communication Tools

I plan to apply my new communication tools across all aspects of my life—professional, academic, and personal. Utilizing frameworks like the Ladder of Listening helps me remain mindful and emotionally intelligent. Avoiding unproductive debates, promoting respect, and addressing physiological and emotional needs will strengthen my interpersonal relationships and prevent communication breakdowns.

Part Three: Course Reflection

A8A. Course Experiences

This course has significantly enhanced my understanding of communication styles, mindfulness, and listening techniques. I have learned to engage in thoughtful dialogue, avoid wasteful speech, and practice meditation as a means of grounding communication. These tools have refined my ability to foster meaningful and professional interactions.

A8B. Course Challenges

The most challenging aspect of the course was understanding and interpreting the 5 Dynamics model and applying it to my personal learning style. However, this challenge was ultimately rewarding, as it provided insight into my strengths and growth areas.

A8C. Course Value

The course’s most valuable component was learning the Cycle of Value and Waste in communication. Recognizing how easily speech can shift from constructive to destructive has made me more intentional in my communication. Understanding this concept is crucial for cultivating mutual respect and effective collaboration.

A9. Helping Others

I can apply these lessons to help others by:

1. Modeling compassionate and mindful communication.

2. Promoting professionalism and empathy in daily interactions.

Many individuals lack essential interpersonal skills, and by demonstrating effective communication, I can inspire others to adopt more thoughtful and respectful approaches.

A10. Sustaining Positive Skills and Habits

As a unit manager in a long-term care facility, I will integrate these communication strategies into my daily leadership practices. Each morning, I begin with positive affirmations for my team, followed by collaborative rounds and interdisciplinary meetings. Maintaining professionalism, compassion, and respect in all interactions strengthens team cohesion and resident satisfaction.

A11. Areas of Communication and Leadership

Continuous growth in communication and leadership is vital. Observing my nursing director’s confident and structured communication inspires me to refine my approach. My goal is to lead with authority, empathy, and clarity—fostering a team environment rooted in trust, collaboration, and professionalism.

References

Covey, S. R. (2020). The 7 habits of highly effective people: Powerful lessons in personal change. Simon & Schuster.

Goleman, D. (2018). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.

D235 Reflection Paper on Interprofessional Communication in Healthcare

Kegan, R., & Lahey, L. L. (2016). An everyone culture: Becoming a deliberately developmental organization. Harvard Business Review Press.

Senge, P. M. (2006). The fifth discipline: The art & practice of the learning organization. Doubleday.