Professionalism

1
Professionalism

• An AARC Guide to Professionalism

2
Definitions

• Profession
• A vocation or occupation requiring special,
  usually advanced, education, knowledge, and skill
  
• Professional
• One engaged in one of the learned professions or
  in an occupation requiring a high level of
  training and proficiency
• Source (Blacks Law Dictionary 6th ed)

3
A Higher Standard

• Make sound decisions
• Function as leaders
• Put patients first
• Commit to profession

4
Societal Expectations

• Professional credentials
• Professional code of ethics
• Standards of practice
• Maintenance of knowledge and skills
• Peer review process
• Research and publication

5
Patient Expectations

• Personal integrity
• Confidentiality
• Appreciation for diversity
• Strong work ethic
• Sound judgment

6
Citizenship

• Philanthropic endeavors
• Civic responsibilities

7
Professional Education
Knowledge and Skills

• General education
• Psychomotor and cognitive skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Teaching and administrative skills
• Research skills

8
Professional Education
Lifelong Learning

• Continued self-improvement
• Continued professional development
• Continuing education
• Research

9
Professional Image
Appearance

• Conservative apparel
• Grooming
• Hair
• Nails
• Hygiene
• Subtle use of jewelry

10
Professional Image
Appearance

• Light, natural use of makeup
• Limit use of personal phones and beepers
• Verbal and non-verbal communication in sync

11
Professional Image
Attitudes and Behaviors

• Positive attitude
• Mature behavior
• Proper etiquette
• Accept responsibility

12
Professional Image
Attitudes and Behaviors

• Thorough and timely completion of tasks
• Communication technology skills
• Professional competence

13
Professional Image
Attitudes and Behaviors

• A professional attitude and behavior does not
  preclude warm, friendly interaction.
• Physical and emotional limits should be
  maintained in the patient/professional
  relationship.

14
AARC
Setting standards for the profession

• Professional Advocacy
• Professional Resources
• Professional Network

15
AARC Publications

• Role Model Statement For Respiratory Care
• Statement Of Ethics And Professional Conduct For
  Respiratory Care
• Position Statement On Diversity

16
AARC

• Helping members grow and develop in the practice
  of respiratory care.