Values are defined as “a belief about the worth or importance of something that sets a standard to guide one’s behavior” (DaLaet, 2016, p. 53.) Values are formed over a person’s lifetime from the influence of experiences, family, culture, and one’s environment. There are a set of values that are the foundation for professional qualities and skills. These core values include altruism, respect for human dignity, and patient autonomy.

Altruism means concern for the well-being of others. This is often what draws people to work in healthcare. Altruism is evident in caring behaviors such as listening to someone’s concerns, using an understanding approach and respecting the culture, perspective, and beliefs of others. Being aware of who among those you care for are the most vulnerable and advocating for their needs is another way to reflect altruism. Mentoring other professionals is another way to give back to one’s profession and keep the workforce built up and well trained. (Daleat, 2016).

Valuing human dignity means respecting the inherent worth and uniqueness of all individuals. This value is reflected by protecting the patient’s physical privacy in the space they are in, as well as keeping all patient and healthcare information confidential, providing culturally sensitive care, and being sensitive to individual patient needs (Daleat, 2016). In order to provide care to any individual, you must believe that they deserve justice, to be cared for, even if they have committed a crime or are under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs.

Respect for the patient’s autonomy means recognizing and honoring the patient’s right to make their own decisions, also called self-determination. Care of the patient should be planned in partnership with them and their families or support persons. The people involved in decision making should be provided with unbiased information such as the benefits and the risks related to each option the person could choose. This is called informed consent.

Attributions

1. Figure 11.5: image released under the Pexels License