Concept maps are drawn out so that the ideas from the nurse are displayed in front of them. This allows for the nurse to review the organized points and reflect on how the nurse can improve on certain skills for future clinical practice. Furthermore, “But, the activity of creating concept maps did help the students come to a more accurate assessment of what they knew well and what they didn’t” (Rasmussen, 2015). After creating concept maps, the nurses reflect on their ideas and how they can improve their skills in the workplace. Reflecting on concept maps is critical because nurses are required by the CNO (College of Nurses of Ontario) to complete yearly reflections; reviewing concept maps drawn by the nurse can help with the reflection process by identifying their strengths and weaknesses to aid in writing a learning plan for the following year (CNO, 2017). This further helps nurses understand how they can apply new knowledge to their future clinical practice. It is a great way for nurses to spread out their information and visually review their map (Bart, 2011).
Concept mapping is a concept in which all nurses should learn and use within their practice. Whether it be in a hospital or senior home, concept mapping is a great tool for nurses to use to aid in the reflection process. Finally, “Graduate nurses use this tool to focus on increasing organization of care,