chapter 4
Questions of Values and Ethics
OBJECTIVES
After reading this chapter, the student should be able to:
■Discuss the way values are formed.
■Differentiate between personal ethics and professional ethics.
■Compare and contrast various ethical theories.
■Discuss virtue ethics.
■Apply the seven basic ethical principles to an ethical issue.
■Analyze the impact that sociocultural factors have on ethical
decision making by nursing personnel.
■Discuss the influence organizational ethics have on nursing
practice.
■Identify an ethical dilemma in the clinical setting.
■Discuss current ethical issues in health care and possible
solutions.
OUTLINE
Values
Values and Moral Reasoning
Value Systems
How Values Are Developed
Values Clarification
Belief Systems
Morals and Ethics
Morals
Ethics
Ethical Theories
Ethical Principles
Autonomy
Nonmaleficence
Beneficence
Justice
Fidelity
Confidentiality
Veracit y
Accountability
Ethical Codes
Virtue Ethics
Nursing Ethics
Organizational Ethics
Ethical Issues on the Nursing Unit
Ethical Dilemmas
Resolving Ethical Dilemmas Faced by Nurses
Assessment
Planning
Implementation
Evaluation
Current Ethical Issues
Practice Issues Related to Technology
Genetics and the Limitations of Technology
Stem Cell Use and Research
Professional Dilemmas
Conclusion39