Clinical supervision: what do we know and what do we need to know? A review and commentary

Abstract

Nursing knowledge concerning many aspects of clinical supervision is increasing because of research. Much of the literature suggests that clinical supervision is scholarly activity requiring much the same attention to relationships as the therapeutic activities it supports. This discussion concludes with the idea that clinical supervision might work at its best as a quiet activity allowing nurses to think about nursing work in ways that suit individual learning styles.

Group supervision as a means of developing professional competence within pre-hospital care

“…According to Jones (2006), supervision of this kind can generate both anxiety and stress. On the contrary, in the present study, the group stresses the importance of the group supervision sessions for discussing professional situations and difficult issues in a spirit of trust and collegiality.…”

“…On the other hand, other studies revealed positive effects of supervision, as it could reduce occupational stress (Williamsson and Dodds, 1999). The process is further described as cost effective, supportive and safe (Jones, 2006;Scott and Smith, 2008;Walsh et al, 2003;Lindgren et al, 2005). According to Jones (2006), group supervision also creates conditions for a group of colleagues to enhance their professional learning and improve their efforts.…”

“…The process is further described as cost effective, supportive and safe (Jones, 2006;Scott and Smith, 2008;Walsh et al, 2003;Lindgren et al, 2005). According to Jones (2006), group supervision also creates conditions for a group of colleagues to enhance their professional learning and improve their efforts. Learning is initiated when more experienced colleagues share their ideas on how best to achieve efficient, professional care.…”

“…Studies have shown that the effects of group supervision differ in content, scope and results (Scott and Smith, 2008;Jones, 2006;Lindgren et al, 2005;Walsh et al, 2003). Negative ratings described the supervision situation as stressful and able to provoke anxiety (Jones, 2006).…”

“…Learning is initiated when more experienced colleagues share their ideas on how best to achieve efficient, professional care. The novice is given a more realistic approach in his/her professional life (Jones, 2006). In the supervising situation, it is important to be able to express one's own vulnerability and fear and to have the courage to talk about it in an honest way (Scott and Smith, 2008).…”