To fully understand professionalism, we must first understand the meaning of the word profession. For example, paramedicine became a profession in NSW in 208 by AHPRA, therefore, changing the dynamics of what it means to be professional in regards to the degree and its career counterparts (APHRA, 208). Lastly, it is imperative that students learn from their mistakes from untoward incidents thus allowing them to grow and expand their knowledge. It is imperative that students learn how to conduct themselves in a professional manner before engaging in the industry as failing to do so would result in myriad ramifications. The meaning of professionalism is often observed in its absence such as when rules are broken or complaints are made but by this point often the damage has already been done. In accordance with the healthcare leadership alliance (LHA), professionalism is defined as the ability to cohesively couple personal and health conduct, allowing both ethical and professional standards to guide practice (Garman, Evans, Krause & Anfossi, 2006).
Professionalism in university is paramount to success given the ever-increasing standards and relentless governing principles in
the health industry. Thus leading to the gradual development of an industry-ready professional (Gambescia & Sahl, 205). Professionalism in medical professions is especially paramount as trust is at the forefront of health careers such as paramedicine and the paramedicine undergraduate degree as a whole. Some evidence suggests that students who lack professional traits will be more likely to be subjected to negative behavior post-grad or later in their careers, although more research is needed (McLachlan et al. 2009). Professionalism is difficult to define as it is ever-changing and relative to the situation and therefore it is important that students come into the degree with a baseline understanding of what it means to be professional and the consequences of disregarding this principle. The measurement of such a qualitative concept can be difficult and therefore a clear understanding of how professionalism can be measured must be outlined. Some examples of this include a list of rules that undergraduate students must follow to be compliant, and a list of instant fail criterion or consequences for not complying with the guidelines thus having disciplinary action pursued.