Mike
Thanks for a fine post.
My response to your lead question is, yes, people act contrary to their values frequently. Acting in line with your values can be tough. To be respective, responsive, and civil to others doesn't require sophisticated expertise, but does require a capacity to remain sensitive to others despite distractions, fatigue, or even overt provocation.

Another point: Core values can be in conflict with one another: providing attentive patient care may require a serious time commitment to a particular patient while assuring the safety of all patients on her shift requires limiting her time with any specific patient, esp when staffing is slim. Fulfilling both values can be impossible. Choosing one value over the other is not always feasible; often one compromises a bit on both, feeling the disappointment profoundly.

Living one's values is an ongoing life challenge requiring creative problem solving, self discipline, and focus every day. Esp if you're aspiring for something truly great.
Michael
www.workengagement.com