Ethics

Ethics – The branch of philosophy concerned with distinction between right and wrong based on body of knowledge

Morality – Behavior in accordance with custom or tradition

Nurse Practice Act – A series of statutes that have been enacted by each state legislature to regulate the practice of nursing in that state


Standards of care – Are guidelines that identify what the client can expect to receive in terms of nursing care

Contracts – Nurse are responsible for carrying out the terms of a contractual agreement with the employing agency and client
• Hospital staffing
• Floating

Good Samaritan Law – Encourage health care professional to assist in emergency situations without fear of being sued for the care provided


Legal risk areas
Good Samaritan Law – Encourage health care professional to assist in emergency situations without fear of being sued for the care provided

False imprisonment – Occurs when a client is not allowed to leave a health care facility when there is no legal justification to detain the client
Defamation – Is a false communication or a careless disregard for the truth that causes damage to one’s reputation

Informed Consent – Is the client’s approval to have his or her body touched by a specific individual

Client privacy – Client right to protection against unreasonable and unwarranted interference into private affairs


Confidentiality – A special relationship exist between the nurse and client , in which information discussed will not be shared with a third party
Medical records
•Client has the right to read the medical records
•Only staff members directly involved in care has legitimate access to a clients record

Patient Self determination act – Right to identify written direction about the care that they wish to receive in the event that they become incapacitated and are unable to make health care decisions
• Advanced directive
• Durable power of attorney
• DNR