Professional Identity and Values. Where Do I Fit In ?

Throughout this course, I have taken a close look at my professional identity and how I am viewed as a healthcare professional. Prior to this course I was very active on social media in my personal life. On my social media accounts, I do follow co-workers and they follow me. I think this course taught me to really look at how I portray myself and my life on social media and if this is the kind of professional identity I want to have.

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I believe the way I choose to interact and present myself on social media should directly reflect my professional values as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT). After performing the social media audit and hearing feedback from other classmates, I realize I must work towards positively engaging in health discussions online to help others avoid misinformation and encourage health promotion. Whether I am at home or at work, I still function as a RT within the healthcare system and therefore should not be silenced by my employer about topics that are conducive to the health and safety of the populations I serve. Ultimately, I want to be a critical thinker, culturally competent, empathetic, understanding and passionate about the safety and well-being of the populations I care for.

When starting my career as an RT, I was required to take on a multitude of responsibilities. From time management, to critical thinking, to collaborating with the health care team and making patient care plans, I learned a lot quickly from experience and peers. While performing these duties not only was I obligated to adhere to hospital policy and best practice guidelines but also learn where my personal beliefs and values fit within my professional identity an RT.

I learned very quickly to have confidence and become a patient advocate and a health care provider my patients and families could rely on. During my career I have become empathetic, organized, a life long learner, a policy follower and compassionate. Continuing to this day in my role as an RT, I have come to value and prioritize autonomy, communication, accountability, collaboration and safety practices.

Within the health care system I belong to the College of Allied Health Professionals of PEI. I am also a member of the federal governing body Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists. I pay membership dues and receive my liability insurance from the CSRT to be a member of the college. Since I work in PEI, I am also an employee of Health PEI, the health authority in Prince Edward Island.

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