Nursing Ethics Essay: My Nursing Ethic

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My Nursing Ethic Ethics is a branch of philosophy dealing with what is morally right or wrong (Merriam-Webster, 2015). Nurses practice patient care without self-interest, thus, attempting to make decisions that are right for the patient. This writer’s goal is to be a patient advocate and make decisions based on nursing ethics and the patient’s right to choose.
Professional Moral Compass A personal moral compass is an indicator of a person’s character, actions, and beliefs. A compass has a needle that points north consistently. Moral compass shows a picture of a person’s direction in life based on morality. Morality is defined as personal values, character, or conduct of individuals or groups within communities and societies; often used interchangeably with ethics (American Nurses Association (ANA), 2015). This writer was raised with values of honesty, caring, and a good work ethic in order to contribute to society and the community. As a child, this writer stole a candy bar from the store and she felt so guilty she …show more content…

Nurses are faced with ethical dilemmas in their practices often. Respecting a patient’s belief or choice, whether we think it is right or wrong, is a must. Jehovah Witness (JW) patients refuse blood transfusions and their life can be in danger, but that is their right to choose and nurses must respect that. Patients decide not to have a lifesaving surgery or chemotherapy, which is their personal decisions. We, as nurses, can educate and inform, but eventually it is the patient’s right to refuse or accept treatment. This writer feels that when good morals and character are in place, the best possible ethical decisions can be made. These decisions are not necessarily right or wrong, but the best choices for the patient and their care based on the patient’s right to

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