Overview
This lecture defines professionalism for patient care technicians (PCTs), outlines its core attributes, and explains why it's vital in healthcare settings.
Attributes of Professionalism
- Professionalism means embodying values and behaviors that reflect positively on you and your healthcare team.
- Loyalty involves commitment to patients, coworkers, and your workplace, building trust and teamwork.
- Courtesy is shown through kindness, warm greetings, and patiently listening to both patients and coworkers.
- Taking initiative means helping without being asked and handling tasks proactively, like restocking supplies or preparing for patient needs.
- Flexibility is critical for adapting to unpredictable and fast-paced healthcare environments.
- Credibility involves honesty, reliability, and taking responsibility for mistakes.
- Confidentiality requires protecting patient privacy and not sharing information inappropriately, including on social media.
- Time management and prioritization help you handle urgent and routine tasks efficiently.
- Teamwork is essential; clear communication and willingness to help others benefit patient care.
- Setting professional boundaries maintains appropriate relationships and encourages openness to constructive feedback.
Maintaining Professionalism
- Avoid workplace gossip, personal distractions, excessive phone use, and negative attitudes at work.
- Focus on responsibilities to ensure quality patient care.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Professionalism — The demonstration of values, behaviors, and attitudes that reflect well on you and your healthcare team.
- Loyalty — Commitment and reliability towards patients, coworkers, and your workplace.
- Courtesy — Showing respect and kindness to everyone in the healthcare setting.
- Initiative — Taking proactive steps to address needs without specific instructions.
- Flexibility — Ability to adapt quickly to changing situations and priorities.
- Credibility — Being honest, trustworthy, and accountable for your actions.
- Confidentiality — Protecting private information of patients and colleagues.
- Time Management — Organizing and prioritizing tasks to use time effectively.
- Teamwork — Collaborating with others to achieve the best patient outcomes.
- Professional Boundaries — Maintaining appropriate relationships and conduct at work.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Maintain a checklist to organize and prioritize tasks during each shift.
- Practice professional behaviors and avoid distractions while at work.
- Be open to feedback and look for opportunities to help your team.
- Always protect patient privacy and avoid sharing work-related information outside appropriate channels.