Professional Etiquette

Etiquette
• Rules of behaviour among members of a
profession or class of society
• It is necessary to have certain rules of
behaviour laid down in the service
• This will ensure that every member knows
what is expected of him/her
• It also helps to ensure the welfare and safety
of our patients/clients
 Etiquette CONT’D
• Etiquette is a code of good manners that a
nurse should follow. The nurse is an important
member of the health team that must work in
co-operation and harmony for the care of the
sick.
• For a smooth functioning and a good
interpersonal relationship.
• You as a nurse should follow certain essential
good manners:
 Some Etiquette For Nursing Professionals

• Respect and pay courtesy to older people or ones

superior rank

• You should greet your seniors, co-workers, your

patients etc with appropriate words and
according to the time of the day.

• You should be courteous to all. Be gentle and

polite in your talk.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• When entering a room or ward senior members
must be allowed first and doors opened for them

• Open the door for the seniors and stand aside for
them to pass.

• Know the other classes of healthcare professionals

who care for your patients and be familiarized with
their procedures and cooperate with them
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Do not give information which will make the public fearful of
hospitalization

• Do not stress the fact that you are better prepared than others
when working with them

• We should know the people in our care and address them

according to their rank

• Address them properly- address the seniors with proper title

eg Sir, Madam, Sister, Mister, Miss etc.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Visitors coming to the ward or health facility
should be properly attended to and warmly
welcome

• Information about our patients should be

given to the right people.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Keep eye contact and sit face to face when listening to
someone.

• Never let others secret go out of you.

• Do not cover the mouth while talking to others.

• Excuse yourself before you interfere with others engaged in

talking or doing some work.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Say "Thank you" when some one is doing a
favour for you.

• Do not delay your answers to the questions.

give the answers immediately and
appropriately.

• Be punctual.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Maintain silence wherever and whenever
necessary.

• Keep your dress neat and tidy.

• While on duty never use any form of jewellery

that may interfere with work.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Stand up when people of higher rank enter
your room.

• Stand up when answering questions in the

class room.

• Excuse yourself when overtaking a senior

person.
 Professional Etiquette CONT’D
• Obey seniors without arguing.

• Help the seniors to carry a heavy load if you

find them on the way.