Professionalism in Nursing

Professionalism: How to be Professional in the Nursing Environment Professionalism is the act of being respectful and courteous to others. This should be a personal desire and not something that needs to be reinforced legally. How you carry yourself and interact with others is the presentation of yourself that affects others attitudes toward you. Being professional can elevate the respect you receive and improve your relationships with clients and other professionals. Professionals are expected to show a degree of special attainment, altruism, and self-sacrifice in their dealings with the rest of the community and in return receive privileges both in the workplace and at large” (Bryan-Brown, et al. 2003). Clinical Professionalism During clinicals, you are working in the professional environment that will make up your career. You will be at various health care environments in which you will be judged on your ability to look, act, and be professional. You must dress appropriately (i. e. clean uniform, badge), wear suitable accessories, be well groomed, and wear the proper scrubs.

Communication in this environment is extremely important. A nurse is commonly dealing with people involved in health care situations which can scare and overwhelm their emotions to the point that they look to the nurse for comfort and answers. Conduct yourself with a level of knowledge but remember you must communicate on a level that they can understand and from which they receive comfort. Dealings with other staff must also be professional. Speaking about your patient(s) must be done in a confidential manner so that nothing is overheard and misinterpreted.

Furthermore, you should take care in your eating/cleanliness habits so that nothing slovenly is seen to impinge upon your appearance of being a professional. At all times, confidentiality must be maintained. Classroom Professionalism Professionalism must extend to the classroom environment. Your peers are the people you will be working with for a period of time and, as such, should be treated with the respect and courtesy they deserve. Turn off cell phones and other electronics while in the classroom environment to prevent distractions. Avoid distracting conversations and text material unrelated to the current topic.

Respect your teachers, students, and guests who are giving lectures by giving them your full attention and not interrupting or holding conversations with other classmates. Always ask for help if you have a problem. As professionals themselves, your fellow students and your teachers can be an invaluable resource and professional discussions can lead to a learning environment for everyone. Instructor Professionalism at Clinicals Remember, your instructors have been here before. They are aware of potential problems you may face and they will be an invaluable resource for you in the coming years.

Always treat them with the respect they deserve. Interaction in the professional setting like this will set you up for success in the future. This is an incredible area for learning and all parties involved should conduct themselves with a professional and clinical manner. Conclusion As a future nurse, the pursuit of professionalism is of great importance. This behavior will allow you to receive the respect and courtesy you deserve, help interact with patients and other professionals to improve efficiency and relationships, and promote a better health care plan for your patients.

Being professional is the best way to further your career and improve the care you give to your patients. References Bryan-Brown, C. & Dracup, K. , (2003). Professionalism, American Journal of Critical Care, 12(5), 394. Indiana University, School of Nursing. (n. d. ), Requirements for All Students: Professionalism Expectations. Retrieved from http://nursing. iupui. edu/students/ professionalism. shtml University of Illinois at Chicago. (2000), Guidelines for Professionalism in the Clinical Setting. Retrieved from http://www. uic. edu/depts/mcam/osa/ policy/professionalism. html