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7 Key Elements of Professionalism in Nursing

There are several elements associated with professional nursing. The key elements of professionalism in nursing are demonstrated through ethical conduct and best nursing practices. The following is a list of key elements of professional nursing and explanations about their importance.
 

1. Leadership:

One of the key elements of professionalism in nursing is the ability to positively influence patients and peers by using strong leadership skills. By using nurse leadership skills, nurses can increase nurse competence which helps them carry out professional nursing practices.
 

2. Professional Values:

A professional nurse has values that reflect an understanding of the type of care needed by and given to patients. Professional values include characteristics such as compassion and caring, advocacy and altruism, respect for human dignity, safety, social justice, honesty and integrity, and accountability.
 

3. Professional Development:

Ongoing professional development is an essential component of quality patient care. It helps nurses maintain competence, improve skills, and is directly related to career advancement and enhancement.
 

4. Basic Care Competency:

Nurses can demonstrate professionalism in nursing by mastering essential nursing skills necessary for patient care. Using evidence-based practices is an excellent way to demonstrate the element of care competence, as it improves the quality of patient care and safety and contributes to better patient outcomes.
 

5. Altruism:

This key element in nursing professionalism is defined as an engagement in care toward another without expecting anything in return. Altruism is motivated by concern for others or by the values and goals associated with care instead of expectation of rewards. Professional nurses look for ways to demonstrate altruistic behavior and encourage that behavior in their peers.
 

6. Social Justice:

In healthcare, social justice relates to the delivery of safe, high-quality care given to all individuals. The most common example of social justice in nursing occurs when nurses act as patient advocates. Their roles revolve around providing competent, compassionate care and intervening on behalf of patients as needed.
 

7. Human Dignity:

Observing human dignity is essential for establishing therapeutic relationships between patients, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. According to the International Council of Nurses, respect for human dignity is inseparable from professional nursing. Respect for life and human dignity is not limited to a patient's race, age, culture, creed, sex, gender, nationality, social or health status.

(from https://www.nursingprocess.org/professionalism-in-nursing.html)