Nurses' perceptions of their professional rights.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Ethics
• Professional Rights
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Professional ethics is a critical component of nursing practice.
• Nurses' rights are an underexplored area within the broader study of professional ethics.
• Understanding nurses' perceptions of their rights is essential for improving their professional environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe nurses' perceptions of their rights in Italy.
• To explore the factors influencing nurses' understanding and exercise of their rights.
• To contribute to the discourse on nurses' rights and professional ethics.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing open-ended focus group interviews.
• Inductive content analysis for data interpretation.
• Exploration of nurses' lived experiences regarding their rights.

Main Results:

• Nurses perceive their rights are shaped by historical roots, educational content, and societal positions.
• Italian working and professional legislation significantly influences nurses' rights.
• Nursing management plays a key role in creating an environment where nurses' rights can be upheld.

Conclusions:

• Nurses' awareness and experience of their rights are multifaceted.
• Legislation and management are critical determinants of nurses' rights.
• Further research and policy development are needed to support nurses' rights effectively.