PROFESSIONALISM AND CARE IN THE POST-PANDEMIC ERA: SOME REFLECTIONS TO THINK ABOUT THE TRAINING OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Professional behavior, or professionalism, focuses primarily on interaction with the patient and in the work environment. It refers to a code of conduct and values such as altruism, hu- manization, and cultural understanding. This concept encompasses a set of skills, knowledge and behaviours aimed at protecting, respecting and assisting people in vulnerable conditions in the best possible way. The ability to care for others is fundamental to professionalism, and its essential value is articulated in respect, empathy, honesty, and ethics in care. The literature indicates that professionalism does not remain stable over time; on the contrary, it suffers a notable “erosion” that depends on various factors, both personal and professional, thus affecting the ability to provide quality care. The well-being of the health professional significantly influ- ences their behavior, which, in turn, has an impact on the possibility of making mistakes or not collaborating effectively with the team. The period characterized by the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the levels of stress and burnout among health professionals, who have been exposed to uncertainty, high mortality rates and moral distress due to the difficult decisions they have had to make. This has been a particularly painful period, during which they too have shown themselves to be very vulnerable. In this context, health and educational insti- tutions confront the significant challenge of prioritizing the well-being of students and health professionals. Training activities grounded on medical humanities and narrative medicine can significantly enhance this well-being, facilitating enriching reflections on professional practice and the capacity to care for others.