NURSING ETHICS AND LAWS

ETHICAL PRINCIPLES Consent

Autonomy Types of Consent

 respect for an individual’s right to make their - Admission Agreement
own decision - Immunization Consent
- Blood Transfusion Consent
Nonmaleficence - Surgical Consent
 Obligation to do and cause no harm to others - Research Consent
- Special Consent
Beneficence
 Duty to good to others  Treatment can not be done without pt consent

Justice  In the case of an emergency when a pt. can not

 Distribution of benefits and services fairly give consent, consent is implied through
emergency laws
Veracity
 Obligation to tell the truth  Minors (under 18) consent must be obtained
from a parent or legal guardian
Fidelity
 Following through with a promise Before signing the consent, the pt must be informed
of the following risks and benefits of surgery,
PATIENTS RIGHTS treatments, procedures and plan of care in layman’s
terms so pt understands clearly what is being done.
 Privacy
 Considerate and respectful care
 Be informed
 Know the names and roles of the persons who
are involved in care
 Consent or refuse treatment
 Have an advance directive
 Obtain their own medical records and results

HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND

ACCOUNTABILITY ACT
(HIPAA)

 Patient’s records are private and they have the

right to ensure the medical information is not
shared without persmission

 All the healthcare professionals must inform

the pt. How their health information is used.

 The pt. has the right to obtain a copy of their

personal health information.