In this essay, I will evaluate my own ability to generate reliable and valid evidence in my portfolio in support of two NMC proficiencies from the Care Delivery domain (NMC, 2004) at Bondy (1983) level 2. I will critique a cross section selection of my portfolio, identifying my strengths and limitations in demonstrating the achievement of the proficiencies in practice through supporting evidence and develop and action plan to develop my knowledge, skills and attitude around the chosen proficiencies.
The NMC (2004), under the Nursing and Midwifery Order (2001), are required to maintain a register of all qualified nurses and midwives, and establish standards of proficiencies that students on pre-registration courses must achieve in order to gain entry to their relevant part of the register. Each standard of proficiency requires supporting evidence to verify achievement; this is in the form of a portfolio.
A portfolio is a varied collection of evidence, with the aim to convey the qualities, competencies and abilities of the owner, whilst demonstrating both achieved and potential development, conventionally consisting of written reflective, critical accounts (Brown 1995). Portfolios are essential in nursing to integrate theory into practice, addressing the issue of the theory-practice divide and therefore upholding evidence based practice (Jasper, 1995).
For student nurses, portfolios are beneficial because this principle of applying theory to practice results in the reinforcement of learning through the process of reflection (Lambeth et al. 1989). McMullan et al (2003) stated that this learning process had two sides that combine together and enhance each other; the professional, practical skills and experience student nurses learn and gain on practice placements and the academic side where the student acquires knowledge and