Exam Pass Notes

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Key Takeaways

• ACT-informed approaches help dental nurses change how they relate to difficult thoughts and feelings so these things have less influence on behaviour.
• Psychological flexibility means noticing what is happening and choosing actions that align with professional values.
• Cognitive defusion creates distance from harsh self-judgements so you can respond rather than automatically obeying negative thoughts.
• Acceptance and grounding enable steadier action when discomfort is present.
• Values-based action keeps responses connected to safety, compassion, teamwork and professional standards.

Practical ACT Skills

• Notice: label thoughts, emotions and body sensations as they occur.
• Defuse: use a phrase such as "I am having the thought that..." to reduce literal belief in a thought.
• Ground: use a controlled breath, press your feet into the floor or identify the next safe, practical step.
• Choose: select actions guided by values rather than by panic or self-criticism.

Values and Team Culture

• Values provide a practical guide for behaviour even when stress remains.
• In team practice, asking for help, giving factual updates and raising recurring pressure are professional behaviours that support safety.
• ACT complements workplace actions but does not replace organisational responsibility for unsafe or persistent problems.

When to Seek More Support

• Seek formal support if stress affects sleep, concentration, confidence, relationships or safe practice.
• Repeated missed breaks, bullying, unsafe staffing or inadequate supervision require both workplace escalation and external support where appropriate.