POSTMODERNISING CLINICAL SUPERVISION IN NURSING

Abstract

Clinical supervision (CS) has been organised and conducted around specific modernist principles, despite claims of the need for, or existence of, heterogeneity. A postmodernist perspective is used to challenge the idea that there is a correct structure (hierarchical) and function (developing supervisee self-awareness, detecting and resolving “real” problems) for CS. The meaning of CS can be locally constructed. In an egalitarian consultation, expertise is shared and multiplicity in clinical stories is celebrated. Practitioners are liberated in relation to deciding what approaches fit for the person in context. They feel strengthened by the cohesion of a group with a flattened hierarchy and, within limits, able to challenge existing policy and practice.

Notes

¹ As far as it is ever possible to do so.

² Pseudonyms are used to protect confidentiality.