Nursing week 7 assignment

1

7

Week 5: Abstract, Significance, and Summary

Name:

Institution Affiliation:

Week 5: Abstract, Significance, and Summary

1.1 Abstract

The field of nursing is tied to principles of ethics and morality. This research endeavors to shed light on the critical issue of nursing ethics within healthcare environments. The importance of this study stems from the integral role nurses play in patient care and the ethical dilemmas they encounter daily. The research problem addressed is the need to understand how nursing ethics are practically applied, especially in the face of ethical dilemmas nurses routinely encounter. The purpose of this study is to explore the practical implementation of nursing ethics by examining nurses' actions and decision-making processes. By doing so, it aims to identify challenges and areas for improvement in upholding ethical principles. This research is important due to nurses' pivotal role in patient well-being. Their ethical decision-making directly affects patient safety and care quality, making the exploration of nursing ethics integral to maintaining professional integrity and enhancing patient outcomes. Rooted in the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, justice and non-maleficence, this study employs a robust theoretical framework to explore the realm of nursing ethics.

This study addresses key areas such as how nurses navigate ethical dilemmas, the impact of ethical choices on patient care and the ethical factors influencing ethical behavior. Drawing from these insights, this study's central research question is: "How do nurses in diverse healthcare settings implement and navigate nursing ethics, and what influences their ethical decisions?" This qualitative research adopts a case study approach, focusing on experienced nurses in hospital emergency departments. The implications extend to positive changes in nursing practice, education, and organizational policies, fostering a more ethically grounded healthcare environment, benefiting both healthcare providers and patients. In pursuit of positive social change, this research promises to elevate nursing ethical standards, cultivating a healthcare environment characterized by improved patient care, safety, and overall well-being.

1.2 Significance and Summary 

1.2.1 Current nature of the problem and relevance

The issue of nursing ethics is an enduring concern within the healthcare profession, constantly evolving in response to the ever-changing landscape of healthcare delivery. Nursing ethics are underpinned by fundamental principles such as autonomy, beneficence, justice, and non-maleficence (Haddad & Geiger, 2023). These principles provide nurses with the ethical framework necessary for making complex decisions regarding patient care. Ethical dilemmas are pervasive in nursing practice, making it vital for nurses to navigate these challenges while upholding the highest standards of care (Lowman & Cooper, 2018).

One of the most pressing ethical concerns is the protection of patients from harm. Nurses often grapple with unfamiliar responsibilities, especially in dynamic healthcare environments (Munkeby et al., 2022). This creates a significant ethical burden as nurses must ensure that their actions prioritize patient well-being. Furthermore, safeguarding patient confidentiality has become increasingly intricate in the digital age, where electronic health records are commonplace (Lowman & Cooper, 2018). The ethical dimensions of informed consent have also expanded with the advent of telemedicine, requiring nurses to adapt to novel challenges in obtaining and documenting patient consent (Haddad & Geiger, 2023). In essence, nursing professionals are continually confronted with new ethical dilemmas brought about by advancements in healthcare technology, changes in patient demographics, and evolving healthcare policies (Odland et al., 2020). Neglecting to address these challenges would not only compromise the quality of patient care but also undermine the ethical foundations of the nursing discipline.

1.2.2 Addressing the Gap in Literature

One of the most compelling aspects of this study is its ability to effectively address the existing literature gap. While prior research has explored nursing ethics, there is a limitation of comprehensive studies that provide an in-depth understanding of how nurses navigate ethical issues in real-world healthcare settings. This study bridges that gap by shedding light on the practical aspects of ethical decision-making among nurses. It offers insights into their lived experiences, thereby contributing to the nursing ethics discourse.

1.2.3 Contribution to social or organizational change in nursing and nursing education

This research project plays a pivotal role in driving positive change within the field of nursing and nursing education. First, by shedding light on the ethical dilemmas faced by nurses in their daily practice, this project highlights the urgent need to address these issues. In the current healthcare landscape, where patient care is paramount, ensuring nurses have a solid ethical foundation is crucial. This research brings attention to this essential aspect. Moreover, this study contributes to social change by emphasizing the significance of ethical practices in healthcare. It underlines that ethical nursing practices are not just theoretical concepts but practical necessities that directly impact patient outcomes. This understanding can lead to a cultural shift within healthcare organizations, where ethical considerations are prioritized and integrated into everyday decision-making processes.

This research also contributes to organizational change. This research has the potential to influence how healthcare institutions train and support their nursing staff. By identifying areas where nurses commonly encounter ethical dilemmas, this project can inform the development of targeted training programs and support mechanisms. These changes can enhance the preparedness of nurses to navigate ethical challenges, ultimately benefiting both healthcare organizations and the patients they serve. Furthermore, this research serves as a valuable resource for nursing education. It offers insights into the real-world ethical challenges that nursing students may encounter during their careers. Incorporating the findings and recommendations of this study into nursing curricula can better equip future nurses with the ethical knowledge and decision-making skills they need to excel in their roles (La Vigne, 2023).

1.2.4 Research Significance

This research is significant as it contributes to the discipline of nursing ethics. It serves as a reminder that nursing ethics is not a static concept but an ever-evolving aspect of healthcare. The study underscores the need for continual attention to ethical decision-making in nursing, as it directly impacts patient care, safety and overall well-being. This research also has the potential to foster a culture of ethical excellence within healthcare organizations. While identifying the factors that influence ethical decision-making, it offers a roadmap for organizations to create environments that support and empower nurses to make ethically sound choices. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and a stronger reputation for healthcare institutions. Therefore, ethical decision-making is not just a professional duty but a moral obligation to patients and the broader healthcare community.

1.3 Recommendations for further research

Longitudinal studies can be conducted that track nurses' ethical development throughout their careers. Researchers can follow cohorts of nurses over several years to gain insights into how ethical decision-making evolves with experience and whether ongoing support and education lead to sustained ethical practices. This longitudinal approach would provide a deeper understanding of the long-term impacts of ethical training and workplace experiences.

In addition, future researchers could conduct a broader, multi-institutional investigation to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how nursing ethics are implemented across various healthcare settings. While this study focuses on a specific hospital environment, future research should encompass a more diverse range of healthcare institutions, including smaller clinics, long-term care facilities and specialty hospitals. Lastly, further research can investigate the role of healthcare institutions' organizational culture in shaping nurses' ethical behavior. A qualitative exploration of how institutional policies, leadership practices and workplace norms influence nurses' ethical choices could yield valuable insights. Such research would contribute to understanding the systemic factors supporting or hindering ethical nursing practices.

References

Haddad, L.M. & Geiger, R.A. (2023). Nursing Ethical Considerations. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526054/.

La Vigne, N. (2023). The Importance of Inclusive Research: How Engaging People Closest to the Issue Makes for Better Science and Greater Impact. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/importance-inclusive-research.

Lowman, R. L., & Cooper, S. E. (2018). The ethical practice of consulting psychology. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/0000058-000.

Munkeby, H., Moe, A., Bratberg, G., & Devik, S. A. (2022). 'Ethics Between the Lines' - Nurses' Experiences of Ethical Challenges in Long-Term Care. Global qualitative nursing research, 8, 23333936211060036. https://doi.org/10.1177/23333936211060036.

Oldland,E.,Botti,M.,Hutchinson,A.M.,&Redley,B.(2020).AframeworkofnursesresponsibilitiesforqualityhealthcareExplorationofcontentvalidity.Collegian,27(2),150163.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2019.07.007.

Week 7 Culminating Experience Research Project Final Submission

· Points 135

 Throughout your culminating experience courses, you have worked toward completion of a research proposal in your field of study. While you have not formally implemented your project/proposal, you have complete the steps of the research process with the intent of conducting your research in the future. This week, you will bring all of your research together into one final culminating assignment. 

Your final paper will encompass all assignments you have completed thus far. At this point, you have submitted each section and received feedback. The final paper should be edited and professionally presented. An attempt to incorporate all previous assignment feedback should be evident. 


Compose your individual sections into one paper, with a title page, abstract, headings delineating your sections, reference page(s) and appendices (if applicable). The following should be included in your final submission: 

· Title page 

· Abstract

· Introduction and background

· Problem statement, purpose and research questions

· Literature review

· Theoretical or conceptual framework

· Predictions, outcomes and variables (or limitations, depending on your research)

· Methodology

· Key stakeholders

· Ethical considerations

· Significance and Summary

The paper should be between at least 50 pages in length including title page, abstract, references and appendices (if applicable). It must follow APA Manual (6th ed.). Each section of the paper should be clearly identified using proper APA headings. The final paper should be professionally written in a manner suitable for publication.

Make sure you have incorporate all feedback and are submitting a clean copy with comments removed. 

Review the rubric for grading criteria.

Week 3 Key Populations and Ethical Considerations

Week 3 Key Populations and Ethical Considerations

Key Populations

The research proposal of nursing ethics integrated key populations that are nurses and researchers who are students tasked with assessing the implementation of nursing ethics in a hospital environment. Nurses are significant in performing hospital activities as they handle diagnosis, patient observation, recording details, and administering medication (Odland et al., 2020). Based on all these activities, the study population was effectively chosen due to nurses' strong relationship with the hospital environment and their capability to influence patient treatment (Odland et al., 2020). The main target population is persons working in healthcare environments and how they implement ethics, but the primary study population is nurses who have a closer connection to the daily health improvement of patients.

The researcher is a student tasked with assessing how nurses handle their daily professional activities using the case study method. A researcher has a profound role in implementing research questions, performing inclusive research, guiding the participants to know how to respond to the research question, and recording all theoretical evidence discovered (La Vigne, 2023). Based on the key populations’ factors, there is an adequate method of improving coordination among them when they understand how their unique input can promote an accurate research process.

Ethical Considerations Concerning Recruitment of Participants

Recruitment of nurses to engage in the research requires ethical considerations so that all participation procedures get implemented in official methods. The first ethical consideration is voluntary participation, which needs to be implemented by assessing how the participants are provided with a fair recruitment process that does not force them to participate. This consideration is imperative as in healthcare environments, some professionals might feel pressure to participate so that they can enhance accurate healthcare improvement, but this thought needs to be eliminated through consideration of voluntary participation. The second consideration is explaining the time commitment so that the participating persons will understand their personal requirements before commitment.

The third ethical consideration is to avoid undue influence from other participants who have provided their consent to engage in research and who might start influencing their colleagues to engage in the research. Providing adequate information about the research area can eliminate this as all participants review their interests. An accurate and precise description of the study as a process for assessing nursing ethics and their implementation in healthcare will be effectively performed. Sharing the information using an email is suitable so that the potential participants fully understand what will be expected during their participation.

Ethical Considerations in Relation to Data Collection/Intervention Activities

Ethical concerns can occur in relation to the data collection process due to the method of gathering, storing, and retrieving information. In terms of gathering data, an ethical concern can occur when the participants provide information that is not fully accurate. Integration of such information into follow-up data analysis can cause the research procedure to be implemented incorrectly. Another ethical concern is that some participants can decide to withdraw early from research even though they are already committed to fully engaging in the research. An issue is discovered here as the data provided by the participants can require follow-up, yet lack of the opportunity to engage in follow-up processes will result in a limited capability of generalizing study results.

Another ethical concern is participants who voluntarily accept to engage in the result but later refuse to answer pertinent questions during a case study. Confusion thus arises as there will be difficulties attempting to strengthen the research's accuracy. The plan to address these ethical concerns is to develop a strict participation information sheet that includes an invitation to participate in the research, an explanation of the purpose of the research, a time commitment of the research that is approximately three weeks, and a section to include the potential participant's professional qualification. All these will provide a reliable method of improving the accuracy of the research process.

Treatment of Data

Treatment of data for the research will integrate a case study method that will be of surveys, interviews, observation, and access to documents related to nursing ethics in healthcare environments. For the participants who voluntarily participate, surveys and interviews in the healthcare environment will be pertinent in generating accurate reviews. A survey will be sent first via email to the participants who have provided their communication details, and then a follow-up interview shall be performed physically at a hospital. Using observation will then strengthen data collection and treatment by supporting responses provided by the nurses using the initial case study methods. Access to different documents will allow the implementation of more support for research data by backing it up with peer-reviewed points. Confidential material protection will be implemented when all participants in the research get their names recorded as initials of the first and last names. All these are supportive methods of ensuring the research process integrates accurate methods.

Conflicts of Interest During Implementation

A conflict of interest that might arise if the study was implemented is financial connections related to the source of funds provided for performing the research. The participants might consider their responses as tools to improve a different healthcare environment's performance. To solve this conflict, a clear explanation that the research is purely for educational development will ensure all participants do not develop conflicting arguments. Another conflict can be a belief by different participants that sharing information about patient treatment can hinder unique healthcare methods. Since the research is about nursing ethics, the issue will be common for some nurses who believe confidentiality must always be maintained. Dealing with this is required while interacting with the research participants, who can be made aware of the need to access accurate responses to improve nursing ethics in healthcare, which can be performed by not disclosing private patient information.

References

La Vigne, N. (2023). The Importance of Inclusive Research: How Engaging People Closest to the Issue Makes for Better Science and Greater Impact. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/importance-inclusive-research .

Oldland, E., Botti, M., Hutchinson, A. M., & Redley, B. (2020). A framework of nurses’ responsibilities for quality healthcare — Exploration of content validity. Collegian, 27(2), 150–163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2019.07.007 .

1

7

Week 5: Abstract, Significance, and Summary

Name:

Institution Affiliation:

Week 5: Abstract, Significance, and Summary

1.1 Abstract

The field of nursing is tied to principles of ethics and morality. This research endeavors to shed light on the critical issue of nursing ethics within healthcare environments. The importance of this study stems from the integral role nurses play in patient care and the ethical dilemmas they encounter daily. The research problem addressed is the need to understand how nursing ethics are practically applied, especially in the face of ethical dilemmas nurses routinely encounter. The purpose of this study is to explore the practical implementation of nursing ethics by examining nurses' actions and decision-making processes. By doing so, it aims to identify challenges and areas for improvement in upholding ethical principles. This research is important due to nurses' pivotal role in patient well-being. Their ethical decision-making directly affects patient safety and care quality, making the exploration of nursing ethics integral to maintaining professional integrity and enhancing patient outcomes. Rooted in the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, justice and non-maleficence, this study employs a robust theoretical framework to explore the realm of nursing ethics.

This study addresses key areas such as how nurses navigate ethical dilemmas, the impact of ethical choices on patient care and the ethical factors influencing ethical behavior. Drawing from these insights, this study's central research question is: "How do nurses in diverse healthcare settings implement and navigate nursing ethics, and what influences their ethical decisions?" This qualitative research adopts a case study approach, focusing on experienced nurses in hospital emergency departments. The implications extend to positive changes in nursing practice, education, and organizational policies, fostering a more ethically grounded healthcare environment, benefiting both healthcare providers and patients. In pursuit of positive social change, this research promises to elevate nursing ethical standards, cultivating a healthcare environment characterized by improved patient care, safety, and overall well-being.

1.2 Significance and Summary 

1.2.1 Current nature of the problem and relevance

The issue of nursing ethics is an enduring concern within the healthcare profession, constantly evolving in response to the ever-changing landscape of healthcare delivery. Nursing ethics are underpinned by fundamental principles such as autonomy, beneficence, justice, and non-maleficence (Haddad & Geiger, 2023). These principles provide nurses with the ethical framework necessary for making complex decisions regarding patient care. Ethical dilemmas are pervasive in nursing practice, making it vital for nurses to navigate these challenges while upholding the highest standards of care (Lowman & Cooper, 2018).

One of the most pressing ethical concerns is the protection of patients from harm. Nurses often grapple with unfamiliar responsibilities, especially in dynamic healthcare environments (Munkeby et al., 2022). This creates a significant ethical burden as nurses must ensure that their actions prioritize patient well-being. Furthermore, safeguarding patient confidentiality has become increasingly intricate in the digital age, where electronic health records are commonplace (Lowman & Cooper, 2018). The ethical dimensions of informed consent have also expanded with the advent of telemedicine, requiring nurses to adapt to novel challenges in obtaining and documenting patient consent (Haddad & Geiger, 2023). In essence, nursing professionals are continually confronted with new ethical dilemmas brought about by advancements in healthcare technology, changes in patient demographics, and evolving healthcare policies (Odland et al., 2020). Neglecting to address these challenges would not only compromise the quality of patient care but also undermine the ethical foundations of the nursing discipline.

1.2.2 Addressing the Gap in Literature

One of the most compelling aspects of this study is its ability to effectively address the existing literature gap. While prior research has explored nursing ethics, there is a limitation of comprehensive studies that provide an in-depth understanding of how nurses navigate ethical issues in real-world healthcare settings. This study bridges that gap by shedding light on the practical aspects of ethical decision-making among nurses. It offers insights into their lived experiences, thereby contributing to the nursing ethics discourse.

1.2.3 Contribution to social or organizational change in nursing and nursing education

This research project plays a pivotal role in driving positive change within the field of nursing and nursing education. First, by shedding light on the ethical dilemmas faced by nurses in their daily practice, this project highlights the urgent need to address these issues. In the current healthcare landscape, where patient care is paramount, ensuring nurses have a solid ethical foundation is crucial. This research brings attention to this essential aspect. Moreover, this study contributes to social change by emphasizing the significance of ethical practices in healthcare. It underlines that ethical nursing practices are not just theoretical concepts but practical necessities that directly impact patient outcomes. This understanding can lead to a cultural shift within healthcare organizations, where ethical considerations are prioritized and integrated into everyday decision-making processes.

This research also contributes to organizational change. This research has the potential to influence how healthcare institutions train and support their nursing staff. By identifying areas where nurses commonly encounter ethical dilemmas, this project can inform the development of targeted training programs and support mechanisms. These changes can enhance the preparedness of nurses to navigate ethical challenges, ultimately benefiting both healthcare organizations and the patients they serve. Furthermore, this research serves as a valuable resource for nursing education. It offers insights into the real-world ethical challenges that nursing students may encounter during their careers. Incorporating the findings and recommendations of this study into nursing curricula can better equip future nurses with the ethical knowledge and decision-making skills they need to excel in their roles (La Vigne, 2023).

1.2.4 Research Significance

This research is significant as it contributes to the discipline of nursing ethics. It serves as a reminder that nursing ethics is not a static concept but an ever-evolving aspect of healthcare. The study underscores the need for continual attention to ethical decision-making in nursing, as it directly impacts patient care, safety and overall well-being. This research also has the potential to foster a culture of ethical excellence within healthcare organizations. While identifying the factors that influence ethical decision-making, it offers a roadmap for organizations to create environments that support and empower nurses to make ethically sound choices. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and a stronger reputation for healthcare institutions. Therefore, ethical decision-making is not just a professional duty but a moral obligation to patients and the broader healthcare community.

1.3 Recommendations for further research

Longitudinal studies can be conducted that track nurses' ethical development throughout their careers. Researchers can follow cohorts of nurses over several years to gain insights into how ethical decision-making evolves with experience and whether ongoing support and education lead to sustained ethical practices. This longitudinal approach would provide a deeper understanding of the long-term impacts of ethical training and workplace experiences.

In addition, future researchers could conduct a broader, multi-institutional investigation to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how nursing ethics are implemented across various healthcare settings. While this study focuses on a specific hospital environment, future research should encompass a more diverse range of healthcare institutions, including smaller clinics, long-term care facilities and specialty hospitals. Lastly, further research can investigate the role of healthcare institutions' organizational culture in shaping nurses' ethical behavior. A qualitative exploration of how institutional policies, leadership practices and workplace norms influence nurses' ethical choices could yield valuable insights. Such research would contribute to understanding the systemic factors supporting or hindering ethical nursing practices.

References

Haddad, L.M. & Geiger, R.A. (2023). Nursing Ethical Considerations. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526054/.

La Vigne, N. (2023). The Importance of Inclusive Research: How Engaging People Closest to the Issue Makes for Better Science and Greater Impact. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/importance-inclusive-research.

Lowman, R. L., & Cooper, S. E. (2018). The ethical practice of consulting psychology. American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/0000058-000.

Munkeby, H., Moe, A., Bratberg, G., & Devik, S. A. (2022). 'Ethics Between the Lines' - Nurses' Experiences of Ethical Challenges in Long-Term Care. Global qualitative nursing research, 8, 23333936211060036. https://doi.org/10.1177/23333936211060036.

Oldland,E.,Botti,M.,Hutchinson,A.M.,&Redley,B.(2020).AframeworkofnursesresponsibilitiesforqualityhealthcareExplorationofcontentvalidity.Collegian,27(2),150163.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colegn.2019.07.007.