As a nurse faculty member, I want to help students understand that being a nurse is about more than passing exams or learning skills in the lab. First, it means having the knowledge and skills needed to safely care for patients. Patients and families trust us, and we owe it to them to be prepared and competent.

Second, being a nurse means working well with others. Nursing is complex, and no one does this job alone. Asking questions, listening to teammates, and learning from others help us provide better care.

Third, being a nurse means caring. There will be days when you are tired, stressed, or dealing with things in your own life, and compassion may not come easily. On those days, professionalism means choosing to act with kindness, respect, and compassion, even when it feels hard.

Finally, professionalism in nursing requires a commitment to lifelong learning and evidence-based practice. Healthcare is always changing, and professional nurses keep learning so they can make good decisions and provide safe, up-to-date care.

Being a professional nurse is about how you think, how you act, and how you show up for your patients and each other.