2 Beliefs & Values
The following section outlines my personal beliefs and the values which I consider essential to nursing.
Belief Statement:
Values:
Empathy
Practicing empathy is one of the core values that I believe is crucial to the nursing profession. Empathy refers to the ability to put oneself in another person’s shoes and to be able to understand what that person may be feeling. I believe this is important to nursing as understanding patients and catering to their unique needs and values is central to the profession. People under the care of nurses are likely struggling in some way, whether it is psychologically, physically or emotionally. Because of this, they are likely to feel vulnerable and scared. By practicing empathy, the nurse can better understand how the patient is feeling and therefore can implement a better healing plan for said patient by sympathizing with their unique situation and needs. Practicing empathy may also function to enhance professional satisfaction by promoting the nurse’s sense of purpose and meaning throughout their professional career.
Respect
Treating patients and their families with respect is another value that I believe is essential in nursing. All relationships should be developed from a foundation of respect. It is important to treat everyone with the same level of respect, regardless of their background, culture, beliefs and values. Patient and nurse values may not always align but it is essential to practice a respectful and unbiased approach when dealing with patients to maintain autonomy. I also believe that respect is the foundation of trust, compassion, and ethical care. One must show respect to promote the development of trusting, compassionate nurse-patient relationships which will enhance overall patient outcomes. Practicing respect towards other professionals is also important in nursing. Nurses must respect everyone they work with whether it be doctors or housekeepers. This is important to maintain positive professional relationships and to promote a respectful work environment.
Accountability
Accountability, regarding nursing, refers to taking responsibility for one’s actions, and decisions while acting in the best interest of one’s patient. This is essential in the nursing profession as we are held accountable to maintain the well-being of our patients while also adhering to the guidelines and regulations of the profession. This includes implementing both our skills and knowledge when caring for patients while also being accountable for our mistakes. Accountability also includes advocating for our patients to ensure health interventions and other actions are in the best interest of our patients. By practicing accountability, it ensures that our patients will receive the care they need without errors and that if an error may occur it can be fixed efficiently, minimizing its fallout.
Collaboration
I believe collaboration is another essential value to the nursing profession. Concerning nursing, collaboration involves working effectively with patients and peers, combining multiple views, perspectives, and backgrounds to solve problems, determining the best solutions and promoting the best care. In nursing, the nurse needs to collaborate with the patient and their families to determine their core values and establish their healthcare needs. It is also essential for nurses to collaborate with their peers. This could include nurses working together to administer care to a patient or nurses collaborating with a doctor to determine a solution to a patient’s concern. It could also include collaborating with various other professionals like a social worker, psychologist, or spiritual care provider. By utilizing collaboration, nurses can foster the best possible holistic care for their patients. Collaboration can also function to increase professional satisfaction as it promotes seeking help when needed and encourages working together.