college connection
PROFESSIONALISM
COUNCIL DEFINES VETERINARY PROFESSIONALISM
By defining professionalism for veterinarians, the College is supporting veterinarians in meeting the public’ s expectations or assumptions and earning their trust.
The definition provides a guide for veterinarians as to what would be observed in the actions and behaviours of veterinary professionals that indicate professionalism.
Demonstrating professionalism and ethical conduct in the practice of veterinary medicine contributes to the public perception of the profession and resulting confidence. Professional behavior contributes to positive interactions and optimal outcomes, both of which bring satisfaction and fulfillment to a veterinarian’ s work.
The definition is provided in a guidance document. It is not meant as a set standard, nor is it meant to override any existing legal obligations. The objectives of the guidance document are to:
1. Provide broad guidance to the profession on the concept of professionalism;
2. Articulate a definition of veterinary professionalism;
3. Articulate the elements of professionalism as defined by guiding principles and duties; and
4. Assist veterinarians in upholding the
Definition of Veterinary Professionalism:
Professionalism is a set of behaviours, attitudes and skills that reflects the values of the profession, as expressed in the Code of Ethics, and reinforces the social contract between the profession and the public.
The veterinarian uses their judgment in any given interaction to respond with behaviours, attitudes and skills that are appropriate to the context and draw on the elements of professionalism.
While basic guidance for professional behaviours is established in regulations and professional standards, the expectation is that veterinarians will strive for optimal outcomes in their interactions with clients and colleagues, putting the interest of the patient above self-interest.
The elements of professionalism are further defined by a set of guiding principles, professional duties, and professional expectations.
To complement the above definition, the guidance document includes a set of guiding principles and professional duties to assist veterinarians with understanding the behaviours, attitudes and skills that align with professionalism.
social contract between the public and the profession in the practice of veterinary medicine.
How do I apply this definition to my practice?
It is important to be intentional about demonstrating professionalism. With intention and practice, like any skill, it can become second nature. This means:
• Be intentional about the words and behaviours you use, and about the knowledge and skills you are applying in the moment. Notice that they reflect the values of the profession as set out in the Code of Ethics, for example, compassion, transparency, respect, trustworthiness. If they do, you are demonstrating professionalism.
• Use your judgment in the moment to respond appropriately, thinking about which behaviours and actions will convey professionalism. This is context specific. For example, if you are interacting with your client, listen attentively and observe the person in front of you.
• Choose behaviours that demonstrate professionalism, no matter the emotion that is being displayed by your client or that is being felt by you internally.
• Observe and interact with the animal and apply skills and behaviours that demonstrate professionalism. Reflect on values that keep you focused on professionalism: with animals, the focus may be on compassion, respect, and competence.
The goal is to have a satisfactory outcome for all involved, including yourself. This includes situations when there is a poor patient outcome, when you must share bad news with the client, or when you are having a euthanasia discussion.
A satisfactory outcome is where even the most difficult interactions turn out well because the veterinarian responded with behaviours, attitudes and skills that demonstrated professionalism.
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Summer 2018 / 3