What is a key characteristic of professionalism in nursing?

A key characteristic of professionalism in nursing is adherence to a code of ethics. This ethical framework provides guidelines for nurses to follow in their practice, ensuring that they deliver care in a manner that is respectful, empathetic, and in the best interest of patients. The code fosters accountability, promotes integrity, and helps maintain trust between nurses and the public.

Adhering to a code of ethics means that nurses commit to principles such as beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (not doing harm), autonomy (respecting patients' rights), and justice (fairness in care). This foundation is crucial in guiding nurses through complex ethical dilemmas they may face in their profession, thereby reinforcing their role as trusted healthcare providers.

In contrast, the other options highlight characteristics that do not align with professionalism. While independence from supervision can be important in some contexts, it does not inherently denote professionalism. Focusing solely on personal success diverges from the collective and altruistic values emphasized in nursing. Engagement in gossip undermines trust and professionalism, damaging relationships within the healthcare team and potentially affecting patient care. Therefore, adherence to a code of ethics stands out as the fundamental characteristic of professionalism in nursing practice.