This course focuses on the theory and skills that prepare nurses to be competent participants of a moral community. Content includes analysis and application of several conceptualizations of ethical behavior, examination of the roots of ethical behavior, clarification of values, ethical decision making, collaboration with others to determine ethical standards, and evaluation of an ethic of care in nursing practice. Students explore caring and justice within health care. Graduate students further examine the ethical dimensions related to advanced nursing roles.
- Apply a professional nursing code of ethics and professional guidelines to clinical situations.
- Apply an ethical decision making framework to clinical situations that incorporates respect for diverse values and beliefs.
- Assume personal accountability for the moral practice of nursing.
- Demonstrate the ability to develop a plan of action to address ethical dilemmas confronting the advanced practice nurse. (Graduate credit)
- Describe the purpose of and role of the nurse in ethics committees in health care delivery systems.
- Discuss the perspectives of justice and caring as they relate to ethical decision making in nursing.
- Identify personal values and their influence on professional decision making and behaviors.
- Lead colleagues in discussing the resolution of a nursing ethical dilemma. (Graduate credit.)