Problem: Nursing is recognized as a profession, for example, there is standardized, formal higher education and a systematic body of knowledge that provides the framework for the profession's practice. Which of the following is an example of a characteristic that supports the idea that nursing is a profession? Nursing is recognized as a profession, for example, there is standardized, formal higher education and a systematic body of knowledge that provides the framework for the profession's practice. Which of the following is an example of a characteristic that supports the idea that nursing is a profession? Standards that are set by the medical profession. Existence of a social contract with society. Accountability lies solely on the nurse managers. Recognized dependence on the physician for clinical direction.