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Embodying reflexivity mostly uses spontaneous ways of reflecting
informally which could be seen as gossiping and is therefore potentially
open to dismissal and being labelled through gendering processes. This is
dynamic and easily talked away, while written reflections are fixed, so that
systemic patterns over time can be disappeared and remain unnoticed.
Hence political actions resulting from reflections are in danger of being lost
in a system that already devalues nurses‘ contributions. Yet I suggest it
can form the basis of relational reflexivity and political acuity and systemic
agency. Gossip can establish intimacy and be seen as an interest in
people (Tannen 1992). It can alter existing power inequalities (van Iterson
& Clegg 2008) and release emotional tensions (Waddington 2005).
Tannen (1992 p. 97) further argues ―when people talk about the details of
daily lives it is gossip; when they write about them it is regarded as
literature‖. Nurses can use this interest in patients reflecting with them to
reducing power differentials and increase collaborative, considered and
relational practice. Further research could focus on exploring the
relationship between gossip and storytelling and to what extent is it a
gendered process?
How might this Inquiry Inform Organisational Learning and
Ward Practice?
Timid
Tasks to be done and rules to be followed
Interrupted frequently, quickly
Meeting targets and standards
Involved in incessant change
Done to and told what to do
Clare Hopkinson 11/6/06
I mirrored the culture of the ward by getting straight into the inquiry rather
than reading and consolidating my understanding through standing back
and pausing and posing questions. I found as my experience of co-
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