Professionalism is the behavior, attitude, and image a member of a profession must maintain to appropriately reflect the values and goals of a given profession. It is important for students in a doctor of physical therapy program to maintain a high level of professionalism. Students are representing both the program they are enrolled in as well as the physical therapy profession. Professionalism is important in both the academic and clinical setting. In the academic setting professionalism reduces distractions and supports quality of a learning environment. In a clinical setting it develops trust from patients and shows respect for physical therapists.
Students of a doctor of physical therapy program demonstrate professionalism by maintaining a caring attitude toward all patient concerns and by keeping a clear focus on optimizing their patient’s functioning and quality of life. Understanding body language, facial expression and tone of voice are all imperative attributes to
…show more content…
Driven by the goal of improving overall wellness, students should take part in being active health advocates for their communities.
Displaying a proper attitude, image, and behavior projects the values inherent within physical therapy. Maintaining professionalism as a student in a doctor of physical therapy program is an important way to contribute to the elevation of the physical therapy profession. With reflective practice towards these components that define professionalism, student ambition will translate into providing efficient care as a well-rounded therapist that of which allows for maximum growth in all areas of the