Discussion On Socialization In The Health Care System

Discussion 1in The Health Care System Socialization Occurs As A Nurse

Discussion #1 In the health care system socialization occurs as a nurse becomes comfortable in their role. As new hires and new nurses become familiar with their work environment and colleagues they are more sociable. Being a nurse is much more than conversing and performing skills. It is a sense of belonging and gaining professional identity which contributes to professional socialization. Professional identity entails the way in which an individual view him/herself as a nurse, who can perform nursing functions professionally, skillfully and responsibly, (Zarshenas, Sharif, Molazem, Khayyer, Zare, & Ebadi 2015).

Socialization also occurs as nurses become more familiar and are confident in practicing as a nurse. Nursing development and professional identity is another decisive factor in fostering socialization. Nurses learn their socialization in the work place from their preceptors as they are introduced on to the organization. They learn about their colleagues and the physicians that work in the facility. The preceptors will guide the nurses on how to approach each situation and doctors.

Sometimes new nurses will feel intimidated by doctors and their preceptors can help them over come theses fears through introductions and teaching nurses how to be proficient in performing their duties. Developing as a nurse is a sense of becoming, involving personal commitment and internalization of values during the process of professional socialization (Zarshenas, Sharif, Molazem, Khayyer, Zare, & Ebadi 2015).

Paper For Above instruction

The socialization process within the healthcare system plays a pivotal role in shaping nurses' professional identity and confidence. From onboarding to ongoing practice, socialization provides nurses with the necessary skills, knowledge, and interpersonal relationships to function effectively within complex healthcare environments. This process, rooted in experiential learning and mentorship, facilitates a transition from novice to competent practitioner, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility essential for quality patient care.

Initially, new nurses encounter a significant period of socialization as they familiarize themselves with organizational protocols, policies, colleagues, and physicians. Mentorship, especially from preceptors, is fundamental during this phase. Preceptors serve as role models and guides, demonstrating clinical skills, teaching institutional routines, and providing emotional support. Through observation, guided practice, and feedback, novice nurses gradually build competence and confidence. This mentorship also helps alleviate initial fears, especially regarding interactions with physicians, which are often intimidating for new grads. By establishing professional rapport, preceptors aid nurses in integrating into the team and developing a professional identity aligned with organizational values.

Professional identity formation, as described by Zarshenas et al. (2015), is central to nursing socialization. It encompasses self-perception as a competent, responsible professional capable of performing complex nursing duties with proficiency. This sense of identity is reinforced through experiential learning, reflective practice, and positive reinforcement from colleagues and supervisors. As nurses internalize the values and norms of the profession, they develop a sense of pride and accountability, which enhances their social cohesion within the healthcare team.

Moreover, the socialization process is dynamic, encompassing continuous learning and adaptation. As nurses progress in their careers, their roles expand, requiring ongoing socialization into advanced practices, leadership, and interprofessional collaboration. This lifelong process ensures nurses remain competent, ethical, and aligned with evolving standards of care.

In conclusion, socialization in healthcare settings is instrumental in developing effective, confident, and professionally fulfilled nurses. It integrates formal education with experiential learning and mentorship, resulting in a cohesive workforce capable of delivering high-quality patient care. Recognizing the importance of socialization can help healthcare organizations design better orientation programs and support systems that promote professional growth and retention.

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