Outline Definition of ethics Definition of nursing ethics Professional values Code of nursing ethics Legal aspects of nursing practice Illegal aspects of nursing practice

Ethics is defined as the study of principles that govern human behavior in our social world. It is defining what is right or wrong.

Nursing Ethics It is the branch of ethics that provide professional standards for nursing activities, these standards protect both the nurse and the patient

Professional values/ principles

Clinical nursing practice must be based on universal values which includes: 1.Respect for individuals 2.Autonomy “self-determination” 3.Beneficence “ doing good” 4.Non maleficent “ avoiding harm”

5.Veracity “ telling truth” 6.Justice “treating people fairly” 7.Fidelity “keeping promises” 8.Maintain privacy & confidentiality

Definition of code of ethics It is a guidelines for carrying out nursing responsibilities in manner consistent with quality in nursing care and the ethical obligations of the profession

Purpose of code of ethics To identify the fundamental ethical standards and values To guide ethical decision-making and practice, To indicate to the community the ethical values it can expect nurses to maintain.

American nurses’ association code for nurses

1. The nurse provides services with respect for human dignity and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of health problems.

2. The nurse collaborates with other health professionals and the public in promoting community, national and international efforts to meet health needs

3. The nurse participates in the improvement of the profession through contributions to practice, education, administration, and knowledge development

4. The nurse participates in establishing, maintaining, and improving health care environments and conditions of employment conducive to the provision of high quality nursing care

5. The nurse participates in the profession’s effort to protect the public from misinformation and misrepresentation to maintain the integrity of nursing

6. The nurse's primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, or community. 7. The nurse maintains competence in nursing and to continue personal and professional growth

8. The nurse promote and advocates to protect the health, safety, and rights of the patient 9. The nurse is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice and judgments

Legal aspects in nursing practice

1.Informed consent It is n agreement by patient to accept a course of treatment or procedure after receiving complete information

Nurse’s responsibilities: A. Witness the giving of informed consent B.Witness the exchange between the patient and physician C.Witness the patient’s signature D.Establishing that patient really did understand 1.Informed consent

 The patient’s medical record is a legal document and can be used in court as evidence.  Therefore, nurse need to keep accurate and complete records of all care and treatment provided to patient 2. Record keeping

 They are kept in securely locked drawers or cupboards and only authorized personnel have access to them.  Nurse should be familiar with correct dosages and potential complications  Misuse of controlled substance such as narcotics leads to criminal punishments 3. Controlled substances

While administering medication The health care provider should be know the following: A.Nature of medication and side effects B.If you have a question or a concern, you should always stop and call for help 4. Medication

Never document before medication is administered. Document A.Medication name B.Dosage C.Route D.Date and Time E.Signature

5. Physician's orders

Forms of illegal medical practice

Illegal practice NegligenceMalpracticeDefamation

1. Negligence It is the failure to perform one’s duty in manner expected by a similar health care provider in similar circumstances It is considered as a harmful conduct E.g: a. wrong medication or dose or route b. Nurse does not carry out sterile technique

2. Malpractice It is professional misconduct, unreasonable lack of skills in performing professional duties

2. Malpractice It is considered as professional and Intentional negligence whereby the health or life of a patient is endangered Examples: - Postoperative complications such as patient with internal bleeding

3. Defamation It is a spoken or written statement that tends to expose another person to hazard