Myths, magic and reality in nursing ethics: a personal perspective

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Nursing Ethics
• Philosophy of Medicine

Background:

• Nursing ethics is often perceived as complex and mystical.
• There is a need to demystify ethical practice in nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue that ethical nursing behavior is immediate, everyday, and simple.
• To explore aspects of justice, compassion, and courage in nursing relationships.
• To examine the role of helpful myths in ethical nursing.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of quotes from medieval philosophers Thomas Aquinas and Meister Eckhart.
• Discussion of ethical principles in the context of client and colleague relationships.

Main Results:

• Ethical nursing practice is presented as accessible and grounded in daily interactions.
• Key virtues like justice, compassion, and courage are essential for nurses.
• The concept of 'helpful myths' can support ethical nursing.

Conclusions:

• Ethical nursing is not inherently difficult or magical but an immediate, everyday practice.
• Understanding nursing ethics through historical philosophical perspectives can simplify complex issues.
• Nurses' relationships with clients and colleagues are central to ethical practice.