Noticing is integral to the everyday practice of nurses; it is the precursor for clinical reasoning, informing judgement and the basis of care. By noticing the nurse can pre-empt possible risks or support subtle changes towards recovery. Noticing can be the activity that stimulates action before words are exchanged, pre-empting need. In this article, the art of noticing is explored in relation to nursing practice and how the failure to notice can have serious consequences for those in care.

Fiona Watson - Senior Lecturer, Mental Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Public Health and Wellbeing, Northumbria University

Annessa Rebair - Senior Lecturer, Mental Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Public Health and Wellbeing, Northumbria University