For This Discussion You Will Be Examining Ethical Nur 393543

For This Discussion You Will Be Examining Ethical Nursing Practice In

For this discussion you will be examining ethical nursing practice. In three to five paragraphs answer the following questions. Define in your own words "ethical nursing practice." Describe the basis or framework you used for your definition. Explain the difference between legal and ethical nursing practice. Discuss one ethical or bioethical dilemma a nurse may encounter and describe how it could be handled.

Paper For Above instruction

Ethical nursing practice refers to the application of moral principles and professional standards that guide nurses in providing care to patients while respecting their rights, dignity, and well-being. It involves making decisions and taking actions that uphold the core values of the nursing profession, such as compassion, integrity, accountability, and respect for patient autonomy. Ethical nursing practice is rooted in the commitment to do what is right, even when faced with complex and challenging situations, ensuring that patient welfare remains the primary focus.

The framework I used to define ethical nursing practice is based on the principles of bioethics, which include beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. Beneficence emphasizes acting in the best interest of the patient, while non-maleficence involves avoiding harm. Autonomy respects patients' rights to make informed decisions about their own care, and justice pertains to fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources and treatment. These principles provide a robust foundation for nurses to evaluate their actions and ensure they uphold moral standards in diverse clinical scenarios.

Understanding the difference between legal and ethical nursing practice is essential for professional integrity. Legal nursing practice involves adhering to laws, regulations, and policies set forth by governmental and institutional authorities. It provides a framework of mandatory standards that nurses must follow to avoid legal repercussions. Ethical nursing practice, however, extends beyond legal compliance and involves moral reasoning to determine the most appropriate course of action in situations where laws may be ambiguous or insufficient. While legality is a baseline requirement, ethics guide nurses to prioritize patient care quality and moral values, sometimes requiring actions that are morally correct but legally contentious.

One common ethical dilemma nurses face involves managing situations where patient autonomy conflicts with beneficence. For example, a patient diagnosed with a terminal illness may refuse life-sustaining treatment, asserting their right to die with dignity. The nurse must respect the patient's wishes while also feeling the obligation to preserve life. Handling such dilemmas involves open communication, thorough assessment of the patient's understanding and decision-making capacity, and collaboration with the healthcare team and ethics committees when necessary. Supporting the patient's autonomy while ensuring they are fully informed allows nurses to navigate these complex situations ethically and compassionately.

In conclusion, ethical nursing practice is fundamental to delivering high-quality, morally sound care. It is guided by core bioethical principles and a framework that emphasizes patient rights, fairness, and moral integrity. While legal standards provide essential boundaries, ethical decision-making often requires nurses to engage in critical moral reasoning to address complex dilemmas that arise in diverse healthcare settings effectively.

References

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