Professionalism and Interprofessional Practice

Question 1

Our Veterinary Obligations (5)

Answer 1

1. Patients/Animals
2. Clients/Owners
3. Colleagues
4. Practice owners
5. Society

Question 2

Definition of a profession

Answer 2

• Work based upon the mastering of a complex body of knowledge + skills
• Governed by a code of ethics
• Disciplined group with high standards

Question 3

Define altruism

Answer 3

• Unselfish concern for the welfare of animals, often involving actions that benefit the animal at some personal cost to the veterinarian

Question 4

Define Autonomy

Answer 4

the right or condition of self-government.

Question 5

What are the domains of a profession? (6)

Answer 5

1. Ethical practice
2. reflection + self awareness
3. Accountability
4. Respect
5. Teamwork
6. Social responsibility

Question 6

Types of ethics (4)

Answer 6

1. Descriptive
2. Official
3. Administrative
4. Normative

Question 7

What are Descriptive ethics?

Answer 7

• oaths, views of members of the profession or declarations

Question 8

What are Official ethics?

Answer 8

• codes of conduct (professional)

Question 9

What are Administrative ethics?

Answer 9

• Standards articulated and enforced by the government

Question 10

What are Normative ethics?

Answer 10

• Approaches to solving problems and decision making

Question 11

What is professional competence?

Answer 11

• ‘the habitual and judicious use of communication, knowledge, technical skills, clinical reasoning, emotions, values and reflection in daily practice for the benefit of the individual and community being served’
• Integration of underpinning knowledge, technical skills and the domains of professionalism within an authentic clinical context.

Question 12

Attributes of professions (9)

Answer 12

• A professional association
• A code of ethics/professional conduct
• A professional education system
• Skills development for those entering practice
• Continuing professional development
• Certification of professionals by the profession
• A recognised body of knowledge
• Government licensing/registration of professionals
• Accreditation of educational programmes

Question 13

What is a paraprofession?

Answer 13

Profession that assists eg
- Vet nurses and techs are paraprofessionals that assist the veterinarian

Question 14

Veterinary healthcare team (8)

Answer 14

• Veterinarians
• Nurses
• Techs
• Animal attendants
• Reception
• Practice manager
• Other ancillary
• external

Question 15

Effective Inter Professional Practice (IPP) should result in….

Answer 15

• reduced medical errors
• increased safety
• resolved conflicts
• increased job satisfaction
• boosted morale