Ethics Basics
What is the study of conduct and character within a profession?
Ethics
Which ethical principle refers to the client’s right to make their own decisions?
Autonomy
What term describes problems involving more than one moral choice?
Ethical dilemmas
What is the first step when addressing a potential ethical issue?
Identify whether the issue is an ethical dilemma
Which nursing responsibility involves supporting and defending client rights and wishes?
Advocacy
What are personal beliefs that determine standards shaping behavior called?
Values
Which ethical principle means acting to promote good without self-interest?
Beneficence
Which situation represents an ethical dilemma?
A family disagrees about starting tube feedings for a terminally ill client
Why must nurses gather as much information as possible when making ethical decisions?
Scientific data alone is not enough to resolve ethical dilemmas
What term describes the nurse acting on behalf of a client facing an ethical decision?
Agent for the client
What branch of ethics applies ethical principles to health and life issues?
Bioethics
Which principle means fairness in care delivery and allocation of resources?
Justice
Which criterion helps identify a true ethical dilemma?
Conflict between two moral imperatives
What step involves examining personal beliefs related to the dilemma?
Reflect on one’s own values
Assigning higher patient loads due to staffing cuts reflects which nursing role?
Decision maker for health care delivery
What guides expectations and professional standards of conduct?
Code of ethics
A nurse questioning an aggressive medication order for a frail client demonstrates which principle?
Nonmaleficence
Why can ethical dilemmas not be solved by scientific data alone?
They involve moral values and beliefs
Which group addresses unusual or complex ethical issues in health care?
Ethics committees
Discussing treatment options with a parent whose religion restricts care is an example of what role?
Agent for the client
Which ethical theory focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number?
Utilitarianism
Offering pain medication before ambulation demonstrates which ethical principle?
Beneficence
What must be true for a situation to qualify as an ethical dilemma?
The outcome will profoundly affect the client and situation
What is the final step after implementing an ethical decision?
Evaluate the outcomes
Which professional guideline outlines nurses’ ethical responsibilities in the U.S.?
ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses