Week 10. Professionalism - Fall 2024 PDF

Introduction to Health Science Professionalism (Chapter 13)  Objectives Explain the meaning of professionalism for individuals who work in health care Describe each of the following components of professionalism: – Attitudes...

Introduction to Health Science Professionalism (Chapter 13)  Objectives Explain the meaning of professionalism for individuals who work in health care Describe each of the following components of professionalism: – Attitudes – Behaviors – Health care skills – Appearance Explain the meaning of “ professional distance” Explain how health care professionals can effectively handle difficult situations Describe how to accept criticism professionally. Explain how professional organizations help individuals who work in health care increase their level of professionalism Identify the characteristics of health care leader  Professionalism Essential quality of individuals who work in health care Difficult to define – Consists of many characteristics and behaviors Caring competence – Dedication to doing the best – Maintaining high-quality service “Caring competence” is one way to express the meaning of professionalism in health care (Professional attitude)  Professional attitude Attitude refers to the way a person thinks and feels about someone or some- thing. – Be committed to work – Recognize impact on patient care – Use objective approach to situations – See problems as opportunities for positive action – Develop and practice self-discipline  Question True or False: – The primary focus of health care professionals should be the welfare of their patients.  Question True or False: – The primary focus of health care professionals should be the welfare of their patients. Answer True Main focus of health care professionals: – Well-being of patients – True even for occupations that do not involve direct patient contact  Question True or False: – Patients who are difficult or rude may be reacting out of fear or pain.  Question True or False: – Patients who are difficult or rude may be reacting out of fear or pain. Answer True Fear and pain can cause individuals to take out feelings on others in negative ways  Professional Behaviors Each individual represents facility Actions influence patient satisfaction with care – Never complain to patients about work – Poor outcomes as well as malpractice lawsuits increase when patients are dissatisfied with the service they receive. – Patients are health care consumers, and good service increases consumer loyalty.  Professional Behaviors Be dependable Perform all duties as assigned and needed Be flexible Accept differences Be aware of how your actions affect others Practice good communication skills Put personal problems aside during work time Be well organized and plan your work Behave ethically at all times and set high personal standards Conduct yourself calmly Serve as a role model for good health Set professional goals and aim for continual improvement  Question Jaime believes his supervisor does not listen to him and deliberately makes the workplace unpleasant. Jaime should discuss this problem with _____. A. The supervisor B. His coworkers C. His friends  Question Jaime believes his supervisor does not listen to him and deliberately makes the workplace unpleasant. Jaime should discuss this problem with _____. A. The supervisor B. His coworkers C. His friends Answer A. The supervisor Employees should discuss problems with their supervisor – Even if situation involves supervisor – Other people do not have authority to solve problem  Question True or False: – If you are having problems at home that are worrying you, it is a good idea to share them at work so your coworkers will understand if you cannot perform at your best.  Question True or False: – If you are having problems at home that are worrying you, it is a good idea to share them at work so your coworkers will understand if you cannot perform at your best. Answer False Although difficult, it is important to continue to do your best at work – Discussing personal problems with coworkers not a good idea  Professional Health care skills Develop in-depth understanding of work Observe and listen carefully Consult employee manual or ask questions Perform all work neatly and accurately Dedicate time to acquire new knowledge and skills  Question True or False: – It is not necessary to understand why you are performing a procedure as long as you can do it well and without making mistakes.  Question True or False: – It is not necessary to understand why you are performing a procedure as long as you can do it well and without making mistakes. Answer False Health care professionals should understand theories that support what they do  Question True or False: – If you are asked to do something by your supervisor, you should never question whether directions are appropriate.  Question True or False: – If you are asked to do something by your supervisor, you should never question whether directions are appropriate. Answer False Appropriate to ask for further information Health care professionals should think about what they are doing and question directions if circumstances do not seem right  Professional Appearance Practice personal cleanliness. Avoid long and/or painted fingernails. Use a deodorant or antiperspirant daily (mild) – Avoid the use of perfumes and strong-smelling hair sprays and other personal products. Pay attention to dental hygiene. Consider personal safety and that of others  Question True or False: – Perfumed products can trigger asthmatic attacks.  Question True or False: – Perfumed products can trigger asthmatic attacks. Answer True Products with fragrances can trigger asthmatic attacks and allergic reactions  Professional Distance Maintain healthy balance in professional- patient relationship – Have caring attitude – Do not depend on friendship and approval of patients – Focus on achieving patients’ health care goals  Handling difficult situations Aim for objective, although caring response Understand own behavior and reactions Separate fact from emotion  Question True or False: – It is acceptable to develop a friendship with a patient if the patient seems lonely and in need of friendship.  Question True or False: – It is acceptable to develop a friendship with a patient if the patient seems lonely and in need of friendship. Answer False Not a good idea to become friends with patients – However, caring and friendly approach is desirable  Question Approaching situations objectively means: A. Having a caring attitude B. Addressing the patient’s needs before your own C. Considering the facts  Question Approaching situations objectively means: A. Having a caring attitude B. Addressing the patient’s needs before your own C. Considering the facts Answer C. Considering the facts Objective approach – Consider facts Rather than respond emotionally or based on one’s opinion  Professional acceptance of Criticism Criticism and correction can be valuable learning resources. Try to react gracefully Evaluate information – If appropriate, use for self-improvement  Professional Organisations Health care occupations have an organization whose purposes are to: Promoting the profession Ensuring quality patient care by making certain that professionals have the necessary knowledge and skill sets Sponsoring continuing education (learning experiences beyond those needed to earn the initial certificate or degree to work in an occupation). Encouraging networking among members Supporting legislation on behalf of the profession and health care in general – American Association for Respiratory care – American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science – Australian Physiotherapy Association – National Association of Nutrition Professionals – Radiological Society of North America  Professional Leadership Leadership – Encourage people to achieve common goals – Leaders combine visions of excellence with the ability to inspire others. Characteristics of health care leader: – High level of competence – Commitment to high-quality service – Willingness to recognize and support work of others – Dedication to meeting high standards – Belief that necessary changes and improvements can be accomplished – Willingness to serve as an example and complete the tasks necessary to achieve the goals of the group – Ability to communicate effectively  Question Which of the following is an example of a leader? A. A manager who hires, schedules, and evaluates employees B. An employee who inspires his coworkers to work together C. A supervisor who has highly developed technical skills  Question Which of the following is an example of a leader? A. A manager who hires, schedules, and evaluates employees B. An employee who inspires his coworkers to work together C. A supervisor who has highly developed technical skills Answer B. An employee who inspires his coworkers to work together Leader does not have to be in supervisory position – But person who inspires others to do their best Questions