Ethics and nursing research. 1: Development, theories and principles

This article, the first of two looking at nursing ethics and research, outlines the foundations and development of an ethical framework for nursing research. The two dominant theories of ethics--utilitarianism and deontology--are described as they relate to the rights of individuals undergoing the research. Each of these approaches has limitations and in some instances choosing the right action may be difficult. The guiding ethical standards of beneficence/non-maleficence, respect for human dignity, justice, informed consent and vulnerable subjects are reviewed for the reader as they relate to undertaking research. This knowledge will help nurses conduct, participate in, or use research that is based on ethically sound principles. The second article will explore and explain the relationship between these guiding principles and the elemental steps of the research process.