Question

Nurse leaders must possess competency in five domains:

(1) leadership,
(2) communication and relationship management,
(3) professionalism,
(4) knowledge of the health care environment, and
(5) business skills and principles.

Which of the following statements best describes the domain of professionalism?
a. Guiding, directing, teaching, and motivating to set and achieve goals
b. An approach to an occupation that distinguishes it from being merely a job, focuses on service as the highest ideal, follows a code of ethics, and is seen as a lifetime commitment
c. Coordination and integration of resources to accomplish specific goals
d. Ethical fitness and moral courage form the backbone of making necessary and hard—but right and unpopular—decisions.

Answer 1

Professionalism in nursing is an approach that distinguishes a career in this domain as being service-oriented, ethically guided, and a lifelong commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. It necessitates adherence to a code of ethics and is fundamental for establishing trust and accountability in the healthcare setting.

Step-by-step explanation:

The domain of professionalism in nursing is best described by the statement: "An approach to an occupation that distinguishes it from being merely a job focuses on service as the highest ideal follows a code of ethics, and is seen as a lifetime commitment." This statement encapsulates the essence of professionalism in healthcare, which extends beyond technical competencies to include attributes such as ethical practice, accountability, and commitment to self-improvement and excellence.

Professionalism is critical in the healthcare environment because it fosters trust with patients, peers, and the broader community. It entails maintaining standards of practice, engaging in reflective practice, and adhering to a professional code of conduct. This commitment to ethical principles and continuous personal and professional development ensures that nurse leaders can effectively navigate the complexities of the healthcare environment, including the labour market for nursing and other healthcare professionals.