How is professionalism defined in nursing?

Professionalism in nursing is fundamentally defined as adherence to ethical practice and accountability. This encompasses a commitment to ethical principles such as beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, and justice, which guide nurses in delivering high-quality care while respecting patients' rights and dignity. Accountability is also a crucial aspect, as it involves a nurse's responsibility for their actions and decisions, ensuring that they meet the standards of care and act in the best interests of their patients and communities.

Focusing solely on technical skills does not capture the essence of nursing professionalism, as it also involves critical thinking, compassion, and ethical decision-making. Similarly, measuring professionalism by the number of patients seen in a day overlooks the quality of care provided and the importance of patient interactions. Finally, defining professionalism by the level of supervision required can diminish the emphasis on the nurse's ability to operate autonomously and responsibly, which is a key element of professional practice. Overall, professionalism encompasses a holistic approach that integrates ethical considerations and accountability into patient care.