Professionalism and leadership

Abstract Paediatric surgeons require skills that go well beyond those of operative expertise if they are to be effective and safe in their work. Even quality clinical decision-making within the complex environment of the hospital requires the surgeon to be competent in several non-technical domains that include having good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively and respectfully within teams. Paediatric surgeons must have a sound understanding of their professional responsibilities, and the leadership skills that they will have to employ on a daily basis if they are to be able to best serve their patients. Professionals, such as paediatric surgeons, are conferred both rights and responsibilities to work in a defined area that is regulated by multiple external jurisdictions. There is an expectation that the ethical practice of surgery includes having awareness and insight, observing ethics and probity (respecting the rights of patients), and maintaining one’s own health and well-being. As leaders, paediatric surgeons are expected to create the conditions for those with whom they work to perform at their best as, in turn, this will ensure that the needs of their patients are best met. They must be able to continue to anticipate, reason, and make the correct decisions, even when stressed. They will lead by example when under pressure, and know when to ‘follow’. A good leader recognizes and deals with conflict early, and in a constructive way that does not damage relationships.