Professionalism in pre‐licensure nursing education: Core values, didactic coursework and clinical training

Abstract

AbstractAimTo discuss professionalism for pre‐licensure nursing students and identify recommendations for inclusion in core values, didactic coursework and clinical training.BackgroundProfessionalism is part of the nursing identity that encompasses integrity and honesty. This concept has been difficult to translate into formal education in nursing programs and clinical practice.DesignA discursive paper.Data SourcesA search of national literature without date restrictions in PubMed, CINAHL, Google Scholar and frameworks for nursing education. We explored principles of professionalism in nursing education and practice.DiscussionEvidence‐based literature supports the integration of core values of altruism, autonomy, human dignity, integrity, honesty and social justice into didactic curricula, and clinical training. Principles of professionalism can be incorporated intentionally in nursing education to maintain patient safety and trust.ConclusionThe principles of professionalism, related to core values of the nursing profession, are abundantly described in the literature. However, these principles represent core values that have not been formally conceptualized. With the changing landscape of healthcare, there is a need for deliberate, measurable integration of professionalism into pre‐licensure education.Patient or Public ContributionThere was no patient or public involvement in the design or drafting of this discursive paper.