Learn one, do one, teach one.

 

As nurses we are often taught "Learn one, do one, teach one." I learned it. I practice it now in my profession, however teaching isn't really the end. I want to make sure my patient or their carer can also do the thing safely and with good practice without me there.

This comes to the idea of demonstrating competency or "teach back." The higher the stakes the more I want to have my patient or their carer teach me how to do the thing. It is imperative they can do the thing successfully. It gives us opportunities to iron out the areas that matter, but also to build confidence that that can take the thing home and be successful.  I also find I learn a lot. In nursing we need to hold some things to a certain standard but other stuff is what I call "style points." I learn a lot by looking at different people's styles and it makes me a better nurse as I have adopted their techniques because they are legitimately good.

Look around at the folks around you. They have a lot to teach and when you think you know something - don't say "Oh, ok" or "I know" say "Teach me how you do that."  I promise you will be amazed at the things you learn!