Title : Heart and honor: Revisiting ethics for compassionate nursing practice
Abstract:
Purpose: As nurses, we are always expected to “act ethically”; but what does that mean? This presentation will provide nursing professionals with a renewed framework for ethical decision-making that prioritizes both the "Honor" of the profession (adherence to standards) and the "Heart" of practice (the delivery of compassionate, patient-centered care).
Background: The American Nurses Association (ANA, 2001) identifies ethics as an essential part of the foundation of nursing care while recognizing the history of concern for the welfare of the sick, injured, and vulnerable, as well as care for self and the impact we can have on social justice. In modern practice ethical dilemmas can lead to a disconnect between clinical efficiency and the fundamental ethical components of nursing. This "compassion gap" is frequently a byproduct of moral distress—where a clinician knows the ethically correct action but feels constrained from taking it. Or there may be a conflict in choices for care, which depending on frequency, can lead to burnout.
Method/Action:
- Analyze the four pillars of bioethics
- Share patient-care stories
- Utilize a step-by-step model for resolving moral distress
Results/Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Define the relationship between ethical integrity, moral distress, and burnout.
- Apply ethical frameworks to common clinical dilemmas.
- Identify three strategies for self-care in daily practice
Conclusion: By reintegrating "Heart" and "Honor," nurses can improve the patient experience and protect their well-being.
