Which framework is commonly used for ethical decision-making in nursing?

The ANA Code of Ethics is widely recognized as a foundational framework for ethical decision-making in nursing. This code serves as a set of guiding principles that delineate the ethical responsibilities of nurses toward patients, the profession, and society. It emphasizes the importance of respecting patient autonomy, providing competent care, and advocating for the vulnerable, thereby helping nurses navigate complex ethical dilemmas they may encounter in their practice.

The ANA Code of Ethics also addresses issues such as confidentiality, informed consent, and the responsibility of nurses to uphold the dignity of all individuals. By providing a comprehensive ethical framework, it enables nurses to reflect on their values and the moral implications of their clinical decisions, promoting both ethical practice and professionalism in nursing.

While other resources, such as The Code of Conduct for Nurses and the Nursing Practice Standards, provide important guidelines and regulations within the nursing profession, they do not specifically focus on the ethical decision-making process to the extent that the ANA Code of Ethics does. Similarly, the Patient Care Ethics Guidelines may offer situational advice but lack the broad application and foundational role served by the ANA Code of Ethics in shaping the ethical dimensions of nursing practice.