Chapter 10Communication and Peer Group

Supervision

Reasons to Join a Peer Group

• Receive feedback on clinical issues• Decrease isolation• Share ideas• Clinical case review• Support• Networking• Professional development/supervision

For APRNs peer groups relate to self-regulation and competency.

Small Group Theory

• The ideal size of a small group is 7-9 members• All groups will proceed through predictable

stages of development• Being aware of small group theory benefits

anyone who participates in a group.

Supervision vs. Consultation

The major difference between the two concepts is the concept of power differential.

Skills Required for Peer Group Members

• Ability to listen to the consultee’s statement of the problem

• Ability to decide if the question is congruent with the presentation

(continued)

• Ability to respectfully ask questions related to the issues

• Ability to productively give suggestions

• Ability to “let go” of your ideas

Skills consultee include

• Ability to state a crisp question • Ability to structure the flow of the

consultation• Self-awareness of strengths and areas of

personal vulnerability

(continued)

• Ability to receive specific questioning

• Ability to tolerate different views

For All Group Members

• Ability to make a long-term commitment to the group

• Make attendance a priority

The order of the presentation

• Identify the type of problem• Describe background information• Communicate your concerns• Provide a history of the problem• Share personal experiences that are related to

the problem

The Consultative Process

• Description- or The Question

• The Question behind the question

• The Evolving hypothesis

• Summary and evaluation

Organizing the Peer Group Meeting

• Socialization• Checking-In• Prioritizing Presentations• Consultations• Plans for Next Meeting Verified