Week Two

Question 0

Responsibility

Answer 0

Responsibility means that a person has an obligation or duty to perform a role or function to an expected standard. Responsibility can be delegated, as long as it is delegated to someone who is competent to carry out the activity. The person who delegates the responsibility shares accountability with the person who accepts the delegation.

Question 1

Accountability

Answer 1

Accountability means that a nurse or Midwife must be prepared to answer to others, such as clients, Council and employers, for their actions and the responsibilities inherent in their positions. Accountability can not be delegated.

Question 2

Competence

Answer 2

Competence is the combination of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values necessary for nurses and Midwives to practise at a standard acceptable to clients and others in the professions with similar background and experience. Competent means “having the requisite abilities or qualities.”

Question 3

Professional Conduct

Answer 3

Professional conduct is the field of regulation of members of professional bodies, either acting under statutory or contractual powers.

Question 4

Unprofessional Conduct

Answer 4

Failing to meet the minimal standards or accepting and prevailing practice, which could jeopardise the health, safety and welfare of the public.

Question 5

Professional Misconduct

Answer 5

Behaviour outside the bounds of what is considered acceptable or worthy of its membership by the governing body of the profession.