Ethics & Values / Legal Implications in Nursing Flashcards
Altruism
Concern for the welfare and well-being of others.
Autonomy
Respect for the patient’s right to self-determination.
Human Dignity
Respect for the inherent worth and uniqueness of individuals.
Integrity
Adherence to a code of ethics and professional standards.
Social justice
upholding moral, legal, and humanistic rights
Principle-based approachh
Autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice
Nurses add fidelity, veracity, accountability, privacy, confidentiality
Care-based Approach
Centrality of care and compassion.
Emphasizes dignity, respect, and individual patient needs
Encourages moral virtues like empathy and responsiveness
Nonmaleficence
Avoiding harm.
Beneficence
Promoting well-being.
Justice
Acting fairly and equitably.
Ethical Framework and Decision-Making Process
Assess the Situation: Gather all relevant data.
Diagnose the Ethical Problem: Identify the conflict or dilemma.
Plan: Weigh alternatives and consider ethical principles.
Implement Your Decision: Take the chosen course of action.
Evaluate the Outcome: Reflect on the decision and its impact
Role of the Nurse as a Patient Advocate in Ethical Situations
Primary Commitment to the Patient: Ensuring their best interests and rights are upheld.
Promoting Autonomy: Helping patients make informed decisions.
Resolving Conflicts: Balancing patient autonomy with their well-being.
Speaking Up: Acting as a liaison between the patient and the healthcare system to address ethical or systemic concerns
Constitutional Law
Establishes fundamental rights and responsibilities.
Statutory Law
Created by legislative bodies (e.g., Nurse Practice Acts).
Administrative Law
Rules and regulations set by agencies like state boards of nursing.
Common Law
Evolved from court decisions and precedents
Intentional Torts
Deliberate acts causing harm (e.g., assault, battery, defamation).
Unintentional Torts
Harm caused by negligence or failure to act prudently (e.g., malpractice)
Competent Practice
Staying updated with knowledge and skills.
Informed Consent
Ensuring patients understand treatments and procedures.
Documentation
Maintaining accurate and complete records.
Following Policies
Adhering to institutional guidelines.
Liability Insurance
Protecting against legal claims
Effective Communication
Clarify orders and patient concerns.
Detailed Documentation
Record all care provided and decisions made.
Adhering to Protocols
Follow evidence-based practices.
Continuous Education
Stay informed about legal and clinical updates
Nurse Practice Acts
Define the scope of nursing practice and licensure requirements.
HIPAA
Protects patient privacy and confidentiality.
Good Samaritan Laws
Provide legal protection for nurses offering emergency care.
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Require reporting of abuse, neglect, or communicable diseases.
Advance Directives
Govern patient decisions regarding end-of-life care
