Nursing Research Paper: Theoretical Framework for Ethics Education in Nursing

Theoretical Framework for Ethics Education in Nursing
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Theoretical Framework for Ethics Education in Nursing
The project "Increasing Ethical Awareness and Competence" uses a theoretical framework as the basis of the study. This project seeks to explain the significance of ethical education within the nursing practice, and so the theoretical framework utilizes a set of studies to support the various theories related to ethical education. The theoretical framework presents different research studies drawn from various nursing units or institutes. This literature review helps the project back up the theory that ethical education enhances nursing competency and assists nurses in tackling complex ethical challenges. Based on this project, the following core concepts which are crucial in formulating the theoretical framework are identified.
One of the framework concepts that guide the project is the moral principles contained in nursing practice. Nursing principles offer a code of conduct for nurses and ensure they show good behavior in their profession. Nurses must understand these principles as they constantly face dilemmas within the healthcare settings. Their good judgment can enable them to act according to the regulations in the nursing practice. The principle of autonomy is essential in this framework, as it helps nurses respect the decision-making capacity of patients and their families. Many times, some of a patient's decision may conflict with the care guidelines, and so the nurses may find it hard to follow their choice. However, ethical education helps the nurses to accept any objection to medications or treatments (Manley et al., 2011). It is evident in the project, which illustrates how patients can refuse blood transfusion in favor of an alternative treatment.
A second principle that guides the framework is beneficence, which advocates for good treatment from nurses. This will ensure any intervention used will offer optimal health benefits to the patient. A major objective of ethical education is to prevent patients from being exposed to harm, which may risk their life. This is related to the principle of non-maleficence, which many nursing practitioners may find it hard to uphold. This is because, in some cases, patients can stop taking medication, or next of kin may request termination of life support. This is contrary to nurses' moral principles, which expect them to protect the life and health of the patient (Manley et al., 2011). Such scenarios put nurses in ethically challenging situations.
A fourth principle that guides the framework is Justice, which is vital because it ensures health equity for all. Many patients receive lower-quality care because they live in underserved communities where there is a shortage of nurses. The nurses may also be inadequately trained to lead them to engage in unethical practic...