Professionalism

Question 1

What is professionalism?

Answer 1

Defined as the body of qualities or features characteristic of a profession
-doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons

Question 2

Characteristics of a profession (Ernest Greenwood 1957)

Answer 2

• systematic body of knowledge
• professional authority and credibility
• regulation and control of members
• professional code of ethics
• culture of values, norms, symbols

Question 3

GDC and professionalism

Answer 3

The knowledge, skills and attitudes/ behaviours required to practice in an ethical and appropriate way, putting patients needs first and promoting confidence in the dental team

Question 4

What is fitness to practice?

Answer 4

Students must demonstrate that they have knowledge, skills and attributes expected of registered dentist

Question 5

Profile & competences for the graduating European dentist

Answer 5

• professionalism
• interpersonal, communication and social skills
• knowledge base, info and info literacy
• clinical info gathering
• diagnosis and treatment planning
• therapy: establishing and maintaining oral health
• prevention and health promotion

Question 6

GDC principles of professional behaviour

Answer 6

• putting pxs’ interests first and acting to protect them
• respecting pxs’ dignity and choices
• protecting confidentiality of pxs’ info
• co-operating with other members of the dental team and other healthcare colleagues in interests of pxs
• maintaining professional knowledge and competence
• being trustworthy

Question 7

Why is professionalism more than just how one behaves at work?

Answer 7

Work must become part of one’s identity

Question 8

Key features of professionalism

Answer 8

Autonomy
Responsibility
Accountability
Justification

Question 9

Learning to be a professional

Answer 9

Reflection
Responsibility
Respect
Justification

Question 10

Standards for the dental team

Answer 10

1. putting pts’ interests first
2. communicate effectively with pts
3. obtain valid consent
4. maintain and protect pts’ info
5. have a clear and effective complaints procedure
6. work with colleagues in a way that is in pts best interests
7. maintain, develop and work within your professional knowledge and skills
8. raise concerns if pts are at risk
9. make sure your personal behaviour maintains pts’ confidence in you and the dental profession