Final answer:
The action that best depicts altruism in a healthcare context is a nurse urging a clinic to offer care to a homeless person who can't pay, as this represents selfless concern for someone else's welfare regardless of personal benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The action that represents the professional value of altruism is c. A nurse encouraging a clinic to treat a homeless man who is unable to pay for his care. Altruism is defined as the selfless concern for the well-being of others without expecting any reward or benefit in return. This behavior goes beyond personal gain and focuses on the moral obligation to help those in need. For instance, a nurse encouraging a clinic to provide care for a homeless individual who cannot afford it is a pure demonstration of altruism, as the nurse is advocating for someone else's well-being with no expectation or potential for personal advantage.
Altruism is important in the healthcare field as it underlines the ethical responsibility health professionals have towards patients. This includes promoting practical disease prevention and patient education, even when personal or cultural values differ. By acting altruistically, a healthcare professional exemplifies the qualities of compassion, sympathy, and kindness which are crucial in providing effective medical care and fostering a professional environment where the focus remains on the patient's needs and the greater good of the community.