Introduction to Nursing Law and Ethics

Question 1

Why is nursing ethics important?

Answer 1

• Nursing practice is autonomous and distinct from medicine, with unique ethical challenges.
• It possesses a set of professional standards and a framework of legal and ethical guidelines.
• Nursing has its own ontology and epistemology.

Question 2

Professional Responsibilities

Answer 2

• Have an obligation to serve public interest and the common good.
• Possess a unique body of knowledge.
• Have multiple accountabilities.
• Are trusted to engage in decisions that influence and shape public policy, law, and societal norms.

Question 3

Why should nurses study ethics?

Answer 3

• Morality and care is at the heart of nursing practice.

- Nurses practise as part of a team, but with different perspectives.

Question 4

Where does ethics play a role in?

Answer 4

• Nurse-client relationships
• Health care policy
• Health care organizations
• Health care system as a whole

Question 5

A Code of Ethics represents:

Answer 5

• A key characteristic of a professional body.
• A public declaration of a profession’s societal mission.
• A formal expression of a profession’s values and responsibilities.

Question 6

The CNA Code of Ethics for RNs

Answer 6

• First published in 1980 and most recently revised in 2017.
• Offers nurses a framework for ethical practice.
• Consists of two parts:
  1. Nursing Values and Ethical
  Responsibilities
  2. Ethical Endeavours

Question 7

The Code of Hammurabi

Answer 7

(1790 BC) is the first recorded collection of laws and ethical codes in which:

• Justice was strict
• The behaviour of women was regulated
• Class distinctions occurred

Question 8

The Hippocratic Oath (400 BC)

Answer 8

• Beneficence and non-maleficence
• Sanctity of life
• Competence
• Professional integrity
• Privacy and confidentiality

Question 9

The Nuremberg Code (1947)

Answer 9

Established after the trials of Nazis accused of human experimentation.

• Informed consent (autonomy)
• Beneficence
• Non-maleficence

Question 10

7 Values of the Nursing Code

Answer 10

1. Providing safe, compassionate, competent, and ethical care.
2. Promoting health and well-being.
3. Promoting and respecting informed decision making.
4. Preserving dignity.
5. Maintaining privacy and confidentiality.
6. Promoting justice.
7. Being accountable.

Question 11

What do nurses have to advocate for?

Answer 11

• Policies to address the social determinants of health.
• Accessible, universal, comprehensive health care services.
• Environmental preservation.
• Positive, healthy work environments.
• The resolution of global health issues.

Question 12

Who are the vulnerable in society?

Answer 12

• Children
• Elderly
• Visible minorities
• Homeless

Question 13

The Canada Health Care Act

Answer 13

• Public Administration
• Comprehensiveness
• Universality
• Portability
• Accessibility

Question 14

What function do Ethical Committees provide?

Answer 14

• Consultation: advice and support in ethical decision making.
• Education: through in-services, workshops, case presentations, and internal publications.
• Policy making: by establishing policies or guidelines to assist staff in dealing with complex issues.