Professionalism in the Medical Field - Assignment Example

The dress should not be exposing such as having plunging necklines, backless, strapless, spaghetti straps, sheer, etc. Jewelry should be avoided or should be minimal and not too large or heavy. Underwear should not be visible. Full length or knee-length stockings or socks must be worn. Shoes should be of appropriate size, fitting, clean and in good repair. Casual wear such as flip flops, bedroom wear is unacceptable. Carrying a cellular phone for the sake of having personal calls is prohibited.

Chewing gum is front of patients is not allowed. Nails should be trimmed and short for hygiene purposes. No artificial nail extensions are allowed. Nail polish if worn should not be chipped. Body odor or very strong perfume is unfavorable. All personal is expected to maintain good body hygiene. Scrubs, uniforms or lab coats should be worn wherever required. Hats or caps are not acceptable unless for religious reasons. (UCSF, 2002) Ethics, as in the case of all professions, maintains a high standpoint in medical healthcare as well.

Perhaps the most important aspect is that of patient privacy. Patient approval before releasing the medical records is essential by law. However, in some cases, the rule might be relaxed for providing healthcare services. (Ducca, 2008) Interaction with the patient and other colleagues plus a person's behavior are an integral part of maintaining a professional atmosphere. Due to the critical and demanding nature of the medical profession, it is essential for the individual to have appropriate time management as well as multi-tasking skills.

He/she must show discretion with sensitive content, maintain a team environment and comply with laws, rules, and regulations. The attitude must be friendly and interest conflict must be handled carefully or completely eliminated if possible. A professional must be aware of and accept full responsibility for his/her actions. They should also keep in mind that they are accountable for every action and should be reliable, available, handle problems until resolved and finish what they have started.

(Toms, 2008) It is imperative to have the appropriate body language while interacting with others. When communicating the use of your body is as important as the right use of words. For example, while delivering good news to the patient, if the doctor is stiff and unsmiling the patient might get aggravated and think the doctor is lying while good news delivered with a smile and relaxed body is the appropriate way. Experience, appropriate dressing, competence, conduct, accountability, interest conflict, ethics, and body language are very important in the medical profession.

A medical professional is someone who projects the aura of someone capable and reliable. Colleagues and patients must be comfortable and the ability to provide a relaxed and healthy working atmosphere is the main object of medical professionalism.