Nursing Code of Ethics

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the nursing code of ethics, which briefly states the moral obligations and duties of every individual who enters the nursing profession. It outlines the five main sections of the code and explains the disciplinary actions that may be taken in the event that a nurse chooses not to follow the guidelines outlined.

From the Paper:

"A code of ethics is not expected to provide guidelines for all situations. Ambiguities will occur and personal judgment will be required, (Trevino & Nelson, 2004). Sometimes an employee becomes stuck in a dilemma where two right actions are in conflict with each other or any course of action violates some aspect of this code. Ultimately, the employee must reflect carefully on such situations before making the tough decision. Contemplating the values and goals of alternative ethical paradigms may be useful in reaching a decision, (Trevino & Nelson, 2004).
"Ethics is part of the foundation upon which nursing is built. The ethical tradition of nursing is self-reflective, enduring, and distinctive. Rooted in a continuing concern for the welfare of those who receive care, as well as for the moral shape of society, nursing ethics have a prominent history of concern that involves both the individual and the community, (ANA, 2005). Individuals who become nurses are expected not simply to adhere to the ideals and norms of the profession but rather to embrace them as a part of what it means to be a nurse. Nursing includes the protection, promotion and restoration of health, the prevention of illness, and the alleviation of suffering in the care of patients, as individuals, families, groups and communities, (ANA , 2005)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Alabama Board of Nursing, (ABN), (2005). Nurse practice act. Retrieved October 15, 2005 from, http://www.abn.state.al.us/main/nurse-practice-act/contents.html.
• American Nursing Association, (ANA), (2005). The center for ethics and human rights: Code of ethics. Retrieved October 15, 2005 from, http://www.nursingworld.org/ethics/ecode.htm
• McDonald, C., (2005). Codes of nursing ethics. Retrieved October 15, 2005 from, http://www.nursingethics.ca/codes.html.
• Trevino, L. K. & Nelson, K. A., (Eds.). (2004). Managing Business Ethics: Straight Talk about How to Do it Right. (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

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