Help with professionalism

leslie :-D · Jun 28, 2009

i would think, addressing your underlying sources of discontent, would be the first step.

what specifically do you mean?

do you lack assertiveness, or are you shy, a loner?

i guess i am not fully understanding what you need, jess.

but as i encourage all nurses, new and otherwise...

do your job, and do it well.

help others who are in a bind/overwhelmed, including the nsg assts, housekeeping, secretary or whoever and however you can help.

treat others with respect, always...

even those...especially those who lack the same graces.

stay away from the rumor mill, the gossipers.

and no matter what is thrown at you, conduct yourself with class and calm.

i'm sorry if i didn't answer your question.

let me know how i/we can help you.

leslie

floridianurse · Jun 28, 2009

Hey there--

I would also suggest that you refrain from:

--talking about patients in a condescending manner

--crude jokes

--dropping the ball on a task that you said you would do

--complaining

--all forms of negativity

--make sure you clothing and hair are clean and neat

Practice your listening skills and truly listen to what the patient is saying, observing nonverbal language. Indicate to the patient that you are listening by keeping eye contact, a nod of the head and a smile appropriate to the message and an intelligent, caring response.

Always follow through on what you said you would do. Make sure others can depend on you every time.

Be trustworthy.

Be early. Go the extra mile when you can. Be available to help others when needed (with a good attitude).

Hope this helps!

Floridanurse

UM Review RN, ASN, RN · Jun 28, 2009

Treat everyone fairly.

Be courteous.

Never discuss a problem with another coworker or patient in public. Always ask to speak privately.

DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN · Jun 28, 2009

“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.

Watch your words, for they become actions.

Watch your actions, for they become habits.

Watch your habits, for they become character.

Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

People don't think that they have control over what they think when in fact they do.

Oh and a big one is do not gossip. Even standing there and listening to others do it is participating and making their behavior OK.

ktwlpn, LPN · Jun 28, 2009

To quote my husband-"remember that the Lord gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth - this is to make you listen twice as long as you speak"....I have always had a problem with letting emotions take over and then my runs and I end up getting into trouble. I have to strive every day to not let my emotions interfere with my ability to shut up and listen and then act after I have all of the facts. Very important when managing a unit in rehab or ltc...I also work on my body language and the tone and volume of my voice.If you look like you have it together it seems to help you stay calm and then are able to REALLY get it together...

allnurses Guide · Jun 28, 2009

It's a good idea to pick a mentor whose attitude you admire (in any field) and talk to them about it. Chances are it's not an accident - most people have to consciously decide to work on how they are perceived. I know I am prone to reacting too quickly without thinking enough, and my current boss is the most positive, calm, stable, tactful person I've ever met - he is really a great model and I think is making me better each day. Avoiding negativity/complaining is a huge one - it really affects your unit poorly when people whine and moan about everything. Try to assume the best rather than the worst and give people the benefit of the doubt.