Key Attributes Of Professionalism

As a student studying physical therapy, it is important to practice professionalism, while understanding that you are not a professional yet. There are many attributes that one should have in order to be considered professional. The key attributes of professionalism that I aspire to practice as both a graduate student and professional are exhibiting emotional intelligence, obtaining and maintaining competency in the field, demonstrating accountability, engaging in active listening, and presenting oneself in a professional manner. Emotional intelligence as defined by Psychology Today, is the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. Even on a difficult
day, you must put your patients first. I was amazed and sympathetic to hear the pain one of the physical therapists at my internship had been in from multiple herniated discs in her back over the past few months when I was doing my internship. She was always a positive presence in the clinic and cared for her patients despite her current situation. She is an exemplary model of creating a positive environment in the clinic and for the patients. Have compassion and be caring towards everyone, even if they do not seem to want it. Most patients you will see are in pain and feeling defeated, then the day that they come in with a huge smile on their face because they are feeling better will make it all worth it. Mastering emotional intelligence is paramount and will promote positive professional relationships throughout my career. One becomes competent through their experiences and their willingness to learn.
Competency comes from always striving for excellence in whatever you do. When completing my observation hours for my URI field experience course, I found that my best days there were the ones where I asked the most questions. Asking questions shows that you are eager, curious, and honest enough to admit that you are not all knowing. When I found that I was not able to answer questions from my mentor, I studied those areas so that I would be better prepared the next time I faced that situation. Although I have learned a lot in the last four years as an undergraduate student, and through my experiences as an intern and a PT aide, I know I still have a lot to learn. I understand that I will need to remain current in the health profession of physical therapy, and always be open to learning new ways of performing within my profession for the best outcome for the
patients. Accountability includes making responsible decisions for the best outcome for the patients and being honest when your professional judgement may have been compromised.
A true professional is proud to do the best that they can, but takes ownership of human error. It is important to take every accomplishment and failure as a learning experience in order to perform at your most optimal level. As a student and future professional in the physical therapy field, you are trusted to be respectful of patients confidentiality rights. I have learned this first hand working and living in the same town. When I see patients outside of the clinic, I respect their privacy and wait for them to be the ones to acknowledge me first. I realize that as a student, and as a professional, I will be responsible for being accountable to my patients, my peers, and my continuing
education Listening actively requires one to concentrate, understand, respond, and remember. When working with patients, it shows diligence to be able to know who each patient is personally and professionally. Patients respect and value the relationship that they make with their Physical Therapist, and it contributes to making their experience more enjoyable. When working with patients you are not just treating an injury, you are treating a person. Not all injuries are the same despite the same diagnosis, so each plan needs to be tailored to that individual. Listening actively to each patient and to the peers you work with will help for a better experience, and better outcomes. Be self-aware enough to appreciate how your demeanor can impact the behaviors and outcomes of others. Representing yourself well through the way you dress, perform, and speak will help others take you more seriously and further help you be as successful as possible as a student, and eventually a physical therapist. A professional maintains their integrity through every situation, being honest and having high moral codes. Knowing how to communicate with people of different sex, age, background, personality, beliefs, and abilities will help you grow professional relationships with peers and patients. Being professional and demonstrating emotional intelligence is important so that you can best learn and develop competency, be accountable and own your mistakes, and practice active, empathetic listening to better understand the needs of individual patients.