Scientific Sessions

Nursing ethics serves as the moral foundation of professional nursing practice, guiding nurses in making decisions that respect human dignity, promote patient well-being, and uphold professional integrity. Rooted in principles such as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, and fidelity, nursing ethics ensures that care is delivered with compassion and fairness while honoring patients’ rights and cultural values. Ethical practice demands that nurses balance professional responsibilities with sensitivity to the unique needs of each individual, often navigating complex situations where moral dilemmas arise. For instance, a nurse may face challenges in respecting a patient’s wish to refuse treatment while also wanting to preserve life. In such cases, ethical decision-making frameworks help nurses evaluate options, consider the patient’s perspective, and act in a way that aligns with professional codes of conduct, such as those outlined by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) or the American Nurses Association (ANA). Continuous ethical education empowers nurses to act with integrity even in rapidly changing healthcare environments.

Alongside ethical responsibilities, nurses must operate within the legal frameworks that define their scope of practice and safeguard patient safety. Legal aspects in nursing include adherence to regulatory standards, maintaining accurate documentation, ensuring informed consent, protecting patient confidentiality, and avoiding negligence or malpractice. A strong understanding of these legal requirements helps nurses minimize liability and maintain public trust. Patient advocacy is closely linked to both ethics and law, as it involves standing up for patients’ rights, ensuring equitable access to care, and facilitating communication between patients and the healthcare team. Advocates play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable populations, clarifying treatment options, and ensuring that care decisions align with patients’ values and preferences. Effective advocacy not only safeguards patient autonomy but also strengthens the nurse-patient relationship, fostering trust and mutual respect. In modern healthcare, where systems can be complex and fast-paced, the integration of ethical practice, legal compliance, and committed advocacy is essential to delivering safe, patient-centered, and morally sound care.