Proffesional Values

Professional Values

Altruism: There are certain professional values that must be incorporated into the nursing profession. Altruism is one of these professional values and dictates a concern for other people's well-being without necessarily putting one's needs first (Hansen-Turton et al., 2009). For nurses, this is an important value and is demonstrated through taking care of patients even when they are not assigned to their workload. Nurses take long shifts and even work overtime whenever there are emergencies to save the lives of others. For a professional nurse, altruism must be incorporated in their daily lives because they have to help others at all times. At a personal level, I demonstrate this quality by caring selflessly for others and at times putting myself needs aside. Students can demonstrate this value by taking care of their fellow colleagues whenever they are facing problems. Students who are altruistic follow the value even when the person who needs assistance is a stranger to them.

Autonomy: Autonomy refers to a person's ability to make independent decisions. In the nursing profession, this value is highly applicable as one must make decisions in a daily basis. This may involve unpredictable situations which the nurse must be responsible for whatever consequences arise out of his or her decisions (Callara, 2008). Additionally, nurses also demonstrate this value by allowing patients to make independent decisions on the type of health care they want to receive. In such a case, nurses give detailed information to the patients concerning the issue at hand, and let the patients and their families decide. Additionally, in cases where the patient cannot make the decision to their health status, the nurse calls the patient's health alternative to make the decision. I personally use this value when I'm in a situation where others want my advice. Instead of making the decision for them, I just provide adequate information and allow them make the decision. Students can also demonstrate this value by helping others make independent decisions without interference.

Human Dignity: Human dignity as a professional value is defined as having respect and admiration for the human being, example safeguarding the patient's right to privacy. This is an important value for nurses as it determines how they treat their patients. For a professional nurse, the value of human dignity is demonstrated when they respect the values and cultural backgrounds of their patients (Keating, 2011). In dealing with each patient, a nurse who possesses the value of human dignity respects and observes the defined code of conduct. I demonstrate this value by respecting all people and treating them equally despite whatever status one holds in the society. Students demonstrate this value by respecting each person's beliefs and treating them in accordance with the dignity they require.

Integrity: Integrity is defined as one's capability to act within personal principles, adherence to moral principles, honesty, and the quality of being unimpaired. (Haynes et al., 2004). Nurses demonstrate this value by acting within the principles of the nursing profession. Additionally, a professional nurse who follows the professional values must be honest about situations and give