Constructing a theoretical model of moral distress

Area of Science:

• Nursing Ethics
• Healthcare Professional Well-being
• Bioethics

Background:

• Moral distress is a significant ethical issue impacting nurses and patient care quality.
• Existing research on moral distress lacks robust philosophical and empirical grounding.
• Previous studies are considered controversial due to methodological limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive theoretical model for understanding moral distress.
• To explore the roles of moral deliberation, power dynamics, and patient advocacy in moral distress.
• To propose an expanded conceptualization of moral distress in healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical model elaboration.
• Philosophical reflection on moral deliberation and power structures.
• Analysis of patient advocacy within the context of moral distress.

Main Results:

• A novel theoretical framework for moral distress has been developed.
• The model integrates moral deliberation, power, resistance, and patient advocacy.
• A broader, more nuanced concept of moral distress is proposed.

Conclusions:

• The elaborated theoretical model offers a stronger foundation for studying moral distress.
• This framework can enhance understanding of ethical challenges faced by nurses.
• The study contributes to improving nursing integrity and the quality of patient care.