What is the term used for a specific way of doing things in a professional setting?

The term "procedure" refers to a specific way of doing things in a professional setting because it embodies a set of established steps or actions that are followed to accomplish a particular task or achieve a desired outcome. Procedures are vital in various fields, including healthcare, as they ensure consistency, safety, and efficiency in performing tasks. They provide clear instructions on how to carry out processes, which helps maintain standards and compliance within an organization.

While other terms like policy, guideline, and protocol have their specific meanings, they differ in scope and application. Policies outline overarching principles or rules that guide decision-making, guidelines generally suggest best practices without being as strict as procedures, and protocols often refer to detailed plans of action in specific contexts, particularly in medical or scientific situations. Given their emphasis on step-by-step execution, procedures are the most accurate term for describing the specific methods used in a professional environment.