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Ethical responsibilities in nursing: research findings and issues
1Northern Illinois University School of Nursing, DeKalb 60115.
Summary
Nurses are more aware of ethical responsibilities but lack preparation for ethical decision-making. Educational level significantly impacts nurses' ethical responsibilities, while other factors show no significant effect.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Ethics
- Medical Ethics
- Healthcare Professional Development
Background:
- Nurses increasingly recognize ethical responsibilities but often lack preparedness for ethical decision-making.
- Existing literature suggests a gap between ethical awareness and practical application in nursing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and validate assertions regarding nurses' ethical responsibilities and preparedness.
- To analyze research on ethical decision-making in nursing from 1970 to 1987.
Main Methods:
- A literature review of 12 studies published between 1980 and 1987 was conducted.
- Kohlberg's cognitive theory of moral development was the primary conceptual framework used.
Main Results:
- Educational level was consistently significant in relation to ethical responsibilities across studies.
- Findings for age and clinical experience were mixed.
- Economic level, religion, ethnicity, and other variables did not significantly affect ethical responsibilities.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to validate Kohlberg's theory in nursing ethics.
- Exploring alternative frameworks is recommended for a multidimensional view of ethical responsibilities.
- Qualitative research designs are suggested for future nursing ethics investigations.