Ethics in the absence of truth

Nurses are passionate about patients' rights; especially the right of all patients to full disclosure, autonomy, and decision making. When these patient rights have been violated by an absence of truth, by deception, or by lies, nurses become unwilling actors in a part they find neither wise nor ethical. This discomfort can negatively impact patient care and contributes to job dissatisfaction. This article examines real-life situations where the principle of veracity has been abused. Suggestions for resolving ethical concerns can help readers to approach similar situations in a new light.