Is this the care you'd want?

Nothing in life is black and white. Perhaps that is why the question of ethics is so important in nursing. All nursing practice is ethical practice. In a therapeutic relationship, it is vital that nurses understand and respect the patient’s needs. Ethical implications apply on every level, from entering the patient’s home, involving them in their care, to considering the extension of care (inclusive of therapeutic touch) that is involved.

Akin to the definition of ‘profession’ in nursing, ethics also causes some uncertainty. The different approaches to ethics is confusing at times. Ethics is an explanation of what happens between a patient and nurse, not who they both are. It is a code of practice, and a belief system unique to each individual. It is a behaviour in a certain way, a reaction. Not all nurses react or behave in the same manner and therefore different approaches are necessary.