Driscoll (1994) also says that reflection is said to be a catalyst for change and that reflection can alter focus from "doing" thereby in consciousness rising into self-awareness. However, whilst most literature gives positive opinions of refection there are some which would disagree, Lister (1988) impresses that reflection needs self-awareness and openness which for a student may be difficult to give either because they don't want to or because they are unaware of the importance of the situation especially in early training. Rich and Parker (1995) would go one step further and say that reflection challenges honesty. Mackintosh (1998) argues that reflection has no clear framework, and is of unproved benefit to the professional practice of nurses, Reece-Jones (1995) says that hindsight bias is almost inevitable. Stuart (1998) however, acknowledges that we do reflect most of the time, and that in general this type of reflection is a loosely based concept. Stuart recognises however that reflection can become complex when used as a structured deliberate and conscious way of thinking and acting, which can result in a change of attitude, behaviour and understanding. Thus highlighting the changes that need to take place before one can claim that learning has taken place. .
This piece of work endeavours to explore the importance of effective communication, it will reflect upon how whilst working as a student midwife on central delivery suite in a local hospital; I had the unfortunate experience of delivering a fresh stillborn baby boy. It will aim to discuss how I as a health care professional communicated with the parents, their family and other health care professionals in this situation. It will also highlight how health care professionals communicate differently with men and women in the context of midwifery.
The woman who to protect anonymity will be called Sue. This labour was considered a trial of scar: this was due to her first pregnancy being complicated, it ended with an emergency caesarean section at 29 weeks gestation due to the fetus being diagnosed with hydrops.