ethics and values

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Nursing code of ethics:

- advocacy- support a patient's cause

- responsibility- being answerable for the patient's health condition, follow thru on promises and respect professional obligations

- accountability- ability to answer for one's actions

American Nurses Association code of ethics

- a nurse promotes, advocates for and strives to protect the health, safety and rights of the patient.

- protects patient privacy

Beneficence

- taking positive actions to help others

- the best interest of the patient for the nurse than self interest

- actions that may be beneficial to others

Non-maleficence

- avoidance of harm or hurt

- the benefits outweigh the risks

Advocacy

- support of a particular cause

- advocate for rights of patient

- including against insurance companies

autonomy

- commitment to include patients in decisions about aspects of care

- acknowledge and protecting a patient's independence

Fidelity

- agreement to keep promises

- providing patient care in all circumstances

- following through on care

Justice

- discussion about health insurance, hospital location and services (even organ transplants)

Utilitarianism

- the worth of something is determined by its usefulness in the world

Ethics of care

- philosophy that focuses on understanding relationships, especially personal narratives

Feminist ethics

Resolving difficult ethical situations

- nurse gives information only available to her, based on the unique relationship with the patient.

- be aware of one's values and how they may differ from others