Your lateness speaks volumes

What does it mean to act professionally as a trainee dental nurse? In many circumstances, it may just entail being punctual and adhering to the uniform policy within the practice. But in actual fact, it is more about the trainee’s attitude and behaviour within a professional capacity.

When I observe the number of unexplained latecomers and absences from my students on my Monday evening class, I wonder how this may be deemed acceptable behaviour in the practice where they work – especially on a frequent basis.

As a London commuter and a dental nurse, I can relate to the transport issues and the unforgiving working hours in general practice. I can also relate to the professional responsibility we have towards emergency patients who turn up minutes before clocking off from work.