Unit 1

PROFESSION
A

paid

occupation,

especially

one

that

involves prolonged training and a formal

qualification
It is defined as an occupation with ethical

components

that

is

devoted

to

promotion of human and social welfare.

the

NURSING AS PROFESSION
Nursingis

profession

within

the

health caresector focused on the care of

individuals, families, and communities so
they may attain, maintain, or recover optimal
health andquality of life.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A
PROFESSION
Characteristics of a Profession according to Houle

(1980)
Concept of mission open to change.
Mastery of theoretical knowledge.
Capacity to solve problems.
Use of theoretical knowledge.
Continued seeking of self-enhancement by its members.
Formal training.

Credentialing system to certify competence.

Creation of subculture.
Legal reinforcement of professional standards.
Ethical practice.
Penalties against incompetent or unethical practice.
Public acceptance.
Role distinctions that differentiate professional work from

that of other vocations and permit autonomous practice.

Service to society.

RESPONSIBILITY OF A NURSE
Care giver
Clinical and ethical decision maker
Protector and advocate
Manager
Communicator
Comforter
Leader
Counselor
Rehabilitator
Educator
Researcher

QUALITIES OF A NURSE
Self confident
Humble and honest
Loyal
Co-operative
Good listener
Keen observer
Good administrator
Good supervisor

Impartial
Capable
Good workmanship
Responsible
Accountable
Competent
Judge
advocate

ETHIC
It is the study of philosophical ideas of right or wrong
behaviors
BASIC TERMS IN ETHICS
Autonomy
Justice
Non-maleficence
Beneficence
Fidelity
Accountability
Confidentiality

CODE OF ETHICS
A code of ethics Is a set of ethical
principles that are accepted by all members
of a profession. its gives an idea about the
correct practice and behavior.

Icn code of ethics (1953)

ELEMENTS OF CODE OF ETHICS

Nurses and people

Nurses and practices
Nurses and the profession
Nurses and co-workers

CODE OF ETHICS INC

The nurse respect the uniqueness of
individual in provision of care nurse
The nurse respect the right of individual as
partner in care and helps in making informed
choices
The nurse respect individuals rights to privacy ,
maintain confidentiality ad shares information
judiciously

Nurse maintain competence in order to render

quality nursing care

The nurse is obliged to practice within the frame

work of ethical professional and legal boundaries

Nurse is obliged to work harmoniously with

members of the health team

Nurse commits to reciprocate the trust invested

in nursing profession by society