CPD, Reflection, Records and Speaking Up

P 1.5 covers using GDC expectations, guidance, law, ethics and local systems to improve everyday practice. CPD, reflection, recordkeeping and speaking up show how requirements have been understood and applied.

Dental nurses can reflect after CPD, incidents, near misses, complaints, supervision, team meetings or difficult conversations. A useful reflection states what was learned, which requirement or guidance applied, what was done, what will change in future and whether the system itself needs improvement.

Useful evidence of application

• CPD certificates with relevant learning outcomes.
• Short reflections linking learning to practice.
• Training records and competence sign-offs where required.
• Incident, concern or audit records showing learning and action.
• Meeting notes or action logs where systems are updated.

Speaking up is part of applying standards. If a system does not support safe care, a requirement is being ignored, or staff are unsure which guidance applies, raise the issue through the appropriate route.

Self-reflection for GDC evidence

Professional requirements are best evidenced when learning is linked to safer behaviour, clearer systems and better patient care.