Ethics is an essential component of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in nursing. To ensure that nurses and other healthcare professionals maintain the highest moral standards, ethical rules and principles have been established in Canada. To provide secure, sympathetic, and patient-centered care, ethics in nursing practise are crucial. The CNO's Code of Ethics states that nurses have a duty to put patients' health and safety first, respect their autonomy and dignity, and uphold their confidentiality (CNO, 2017). This suggests that nurses must work in their patient's best interests, encourage their autonomy and self-determination, and safeguard their privacy.
The necessity of making ethical decisions in nursing practise is also emphasised in the Professional Standards. In order to make sure that their activities adhere to ethical standards when faced with ethical challenges, nurses are encouraged to participate in ethical reflection and critical thinking (RNAO, 2008). Making ethical decisions requires considering the opinions and values of patients, families, and the larger healthcare team.
When it comes to establishing moral guidelines for nursing practise in Canada, the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is a significant authority. The ethical standards of respecting patients' privacy, dignity, and confidentiality are demanded of nurses (CNA, 2017).
During my clinical practice back home as a nurse, I had a patient who was diagnosed with a complex medical condition requiring a surgical intervention. I took the time to explain the procedure, potential risks, and benefits in a clear and understandable manner. I provided them with written materials and encouraged them to ask questions. By respecting their autonomy, I empowered the patient to make an informed decision about their care. This example demonstrates my commitment to upholding ethical principles, respecting patient autonomy, and promoting their involvement in their healthcare journey.
Ethics. (n.d.). https://www.cno.org/en/learn-about-standards-guidelines/educational-tools/learning-modules/ethics/
Ethics - Canadian Nurses Association. (n.d.). Higher Logic, LLC. https://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/nursing/regulated-nursing-in-canada/nursing-ethics
Ethical Practice Teaching activities and resources | RNAO. (n.d.). https://mharesource.rnao.ca/section-six/ethical-practice-teaching-activities-and-resources