Professionalism is defined as

• A. The consistent demonstration of and strict adherence to accountability, responsibility, dependability, and commitment.
• B. Professionalism is the ability to lead interprofessional teams during patient care.
• C. Professionalism is the process of implementing evidence-based practice changes.
• D. Professionalism is the pursuit of research funding and publication.

Answer: (A)

Professionalism is shown through the consistent demonstration of accountability, responsibility, dependability, and commitment. In nursing, this means upholding ethical standards, protecting patient safety, communicating respectfully, and taking responsibility for one’s actions. When a nurse is reliable, follows through on commitments, and adheres to evidence and policies, trust is built with patients, families, and the health-care team, which supports safe, high-quality care.

Leading interprofessional teams, implementing evidence-based practice changes, and pursuing research funding are important professional activities, but they describe specific roles or goals rather than the defining behavior of professionalism itself.