“Competence influences self-respect, self-esteem, professional status, and the meaning of work. In all nursing roles, performance evaluation, combined with peer review, is a means by which nursing practice can be held to the highest standards” (American Nurses Association, 2012). Staying current on these changes by attending continuing education units, reading medical journals, and attending skills fairs helps the nurse maintain competence. The nurse also recognizes that his or her attitude and clinical skills reflect the workplace and will conduct himself or herself in a professional manner. Nurses and the Profession Applying my philosophy to nurses and the profession, I believe it is part of the nurse's duty to advocate to question unethical behavior observed in the professional setting. Expressing concern about unethical behavior instead of turning a blind eye preserves the nurse's integrity. If the organization for which the nurse works requires actions that are contrary to the nurse's moral code or values, the nurse must make this known. In nursing, evidence-based practice skills are used to help patients return to their normal state before illness or injury. New skills and knowledge brought by the nurse to patient care should be sought and supported by evidence-based practice. Nurses and