The Role of Nurses in Upholding Ethical Standards in Healthcare

Abstract

Background
Healthcare systems can never work without nurses being the cornerstone of it, and they are the front line to face the horses to confront with complex ethical dilemmas. Ethical standards standing is integral to nursing practice due to the patient’s own character preservation, commitment to the patient’s autonomy, and equitable access to genuine care. This study investigates the role that nurses have in maintaining ethical practice, the challenges they encounter in ethical practice in healthcare settings, and the ways of improving ethical practice.
Methods
This was a mixed-method study that involved a literature review and qualitative interviews with 25 practicing nurses. These were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring ethical responsibilities, challenges, and strategies.
Results
The core ethical responsibilities of respect for autonomy (92%), confidentiality (89%), and patient advocacy (85%) all played a central part in relation to role practices. High prevalence of resource constraints, where 72% of partakers agreed because 57% acknowledge the existence of barriers and 34% agree to the presence of resource constraints; organizational pressures, where 68% of partakers agreed because 51% acknowledge barriers and 46% agree to the presence of organizational pressures; cultural conflicts where 60% of partakers agreed because 45% acknowledge barriers and 35% agree on the presence of cultural conflicts were prevalent. Effective communication, continuous ethics education, and organizational support were some of these strategies.
Conclusion
The ethical challenge of maintaining ethical standards in healthcare is played by nurses. Being able to address barriers through education and systemic support can also help nurses navigate ethical dilemmas and, ultimately, better patient outcomes and the framework and professional integrity of the nurse.