10 Professionalism, Documentation, Confidentiality, Cell Phones
Professionalism
- Safety First!
- Always prioritize your safety and the safety of others in all your actions and decisions. Be aware of your surroundings and adhere to safety guidelines and protocol. Practice within your scope and level of knowledge.
- Professionalism
- Whether in person, through email, or in any other form of communication, maintain a professional demeanors. Dress appropriately, use proper language, and show respect to teachers, peers, and others you interact with.
- Punctuality
- Arriving on time is a sign of responsibility and respect. Be punctual for Professional Practice, meetings and assignments. Being on time demonstrates your commitment to your education and to those you work with. (this includes being punctual with break times and not leaving clinical early)
- Communication
- Effective communication is key. When in doubt, ask questions for clarity, articulate your thoughts with precision, and practice active listening when engaging with others. Be proactive in seeking assistance when needed and seek constructive feedback when appropriate.
- Proficiency
- Strive to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. Commit to continuous improvement and growth. Always do your best.
- Time Management
- Learn to manage your time effectively to balance your studies, extracurricular activities and personal life. Create a schedule or to-do list to help you stay organized and on top of your responsibilities.
“Email Etiquette and Professionalism”
In the professional world, email is a crucial communication tool, and how you craft your messages speaks volumes about your professionalism. Email etiquette refers to the set of conventions and best practices for writing clear, concise, and respectful messages. A professional tone is essential for ensuring that your emails are taken seriously and foster positive working relationships.
We are encouraging students to start with a clear and relevant subject line, and always address the recipient with a courteous greeting. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings. Students need to be mindful of tone, especially in sensitive or formal situations—opt for a neutral, polite, and respectful language. Avoid slang, all caps, or emojis in professional emails.
Keep emails concise and to the point, and always include a clear call to action if needed. In closing, use a professional sign-off, such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely.” Lastly, double-check your email for tone and accuracy before hitting send to ensure you’re presenting your best self.
By adhering to these simple rules, you demonstrate respect for the recipient’s time and create an impression of professionalism in every email you send.
Confidentiality
Maintaining patient confidentiality is a fundamental responsibility for PSW students during their placements. All personal, medical, and sensitive information about patients must be kept private and only shared with authorized personnel when necessary for care. PSW students are prohibited from using any form of recording device, including cameras or audio recordings, to document patient information. This ensures that the privacy and dignity of patients are respected at all times, in compliance with ethical and legal standards.
Documentation
As PSW students, you may be required to document patient care and other relevant information during your placement. It is crucial that all documentation is accurate, clear, and concise to ensure proper communication and continuity of care. You should always double-check your entries for completeness and accuracy. Additionally, please have your preceptor review ALL documentation you complete to provide guidance and ensure it meets the facility’s standards and best practices.
Remember to sign off correctly on all documentation using your Mohawk College signature and designation:
example: J.TaylorMohColPSW2Student
Cell Phone Use
Cell phone use is strictly prohibited on the units during PSW student placements in healthcare facilities. This policy ensures that students remain fully focused on providing quality care to patients and maintaining a professional environment. Personal phone calls, texting, or using social media can distract from responsibilities and compromise patient safety. Students are expected to keep their phones off or in silent mode while on duty, using them only during designated break times and in appropriate areas.