Professional Behaviors and Communication

Objectives of the Lesson

• Define professionalism.
• Evaluate the use of professional behaviors in the workplace.
• Discuss professional communication.
• Utilize professional communication skills in interactions.

What is Professionalism?

• Definition: The conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize a profession or a professional person.
• Importance:
  • Promotes patient safety.
  • Facilitates effective collaboration among healthcare teams.
  • Helps in creating a respectful workplace.
  • Encourages critical self-reflection.
  • Enhances the environment for clinical care, education, and research.
  • Provides a sense of satisfaction and self-worth.

Professional Behaviors

• Competence:
  • Get the job done well.
  • Abilities match role requirements.
  • Manage expectations and seek support when needed.
• Knowledge:
  • Develop detailed, up-to-date, and specialized knowledge.
  • Strive to master your role throughout your career.
• Conscientiousness:
  • Be reliable and set high standards.
  • Be organized and accountable.
• Integrity:
  • Stay true to your word and values.
  • Be honest with yourself and others.
• Respect:
  • Be a role model for politeness and good manners.
  • Respect others' needs and uphold their rights.
• Emotional Intelligence:
  • Manage emotions under pressure.
  • Be aware of others' feelings.
• Confidence:
  • Reassures and motivates others.
  • Pushes you to take on new challenges.

Professional Communication

Importance

• Facilitates transparent, collaborative, and responsible interactions.
• Promotes trusting relationships among patients, families, and providers.
• Essential for interprofessional communication.

Communication Tips

• Cohesion and Clarity: Communicate clearly and concisely.
• Friendliness: Use a friendly tone.
• Confidence: Build trust and demonstrate confidence.
• Empathy: Indicate respect for others' views.
• Respect: Be respectful of others' opinions.
• Listening: Listen to understand, not to respond.
• Open-mindedness: Enter conversations without preconceived notions.
• Tone of Voice: Keep a neutral tone.
• Ask Questions: Use open-ended questions, allow time for responses.

Handling Workplace Conflict

• Move to a private area for discussions.
• Start with a professional tone.
• Know your audience and your goals.
• Stay focused and remain objective.
• Be truthful and sincere.
• Avoid creating drama.
• Speak softly, slowly, and maintain eye contact.
• Don't hold grudges.
• Seek supervisory intervention if necessary.

Skills Practice

• Practice communication skills with a friend or colleague.
• Reflect on the experience in a discussion post.
• Respond to peers.

Additional Resources

• References and resources available on the provided slide.