Integrity

Question 1

what are the 4 components of RPN integrity

Answer 1

1. moral autonomy
2. fidelity
3. steadfastness
4. wholeness

Question 2

describe moral autonomy for RPNs and give an example

Answer 2

Ability to make choices; ability to decide whether to be obedient or reject authority, stand up for patients
e.g., the right to refuse to provide care if you feel unsafe

Question 3

what is fidelity in relation to RPN integrity

Answer 3

• Promise keeping (to the patient, to the public; code of ethics, standards of practice)

Question 4

define steadfastness for RPNs
e.g.?

Answer 4

• resolute
• means to withstand pressure
• e.g., time management and stress management

Question 5

describe wholeness for RPNs

Answer 5

RPNs have many roles in their lives (RPN, parent, child, friend etc)
- Instructs you to be the same moral person in all those roles (Not stealing from friends – not stealing from work)
- Includes being accountable for your actions

Question 6

examples of challenges RPNs face regarding moral integrity

Answer 6

• The right to refuse giving medication
• Using restraints on patients
• being involved with patients using MAID

Question 7

Questions to ask employers in interviews

Answer 7

• Ask about opportunities for advancement; to specialize; for mentoring

Question 8

what is a moral dilemma

Answer 8

an unethical challenge; not knowing what to do

Question 9

what is the difference between moral dilemma and moral distress

Answer 9

dilemma = not knowing what to do
distress = you know what to do, but you’re being kept from doing it

Question 10

what is moral distress

Answer 10

• you know what to do, but you’re being kept from doing it
• making decisions in the face of barriers such as institutional policies rigid protocols, lack of resources, lack of time

Question 11

what is moral residue

Answer 11

• the aftermath of moral distress
• not doing what you know needs to be done, sticks with you (feels like a moral failure that you cant wash off)

Question 12

what is moral courage

Answer 12

– moral resilience; bouncing back from moral distress
- not something you have to do on your own, having the support of other RPNS

Question 13

what is moral injury

Answer 13

• a loss of trust when you witness your peers or leaders act in a way that violates ethical expectations
• results in moral residue

Question 14

example of moral injury

Answer 14

• patient liberty restricted when a patient doesn’t fulfill requirements for involuntary
• Negative stigma shown by doctors and other nurses