What are ethical dilemmas in nursing primarily concerned with?

Ethical dilemmas in nursing are primarily concerned with conflicting moral principles. In the nursing profession, practitioners often face situations where they must weigh different ethical values against one another. For example, a nurse may encounter a scenario where patient autonomy conflicts with the need to provide adequate care or when a patient's wishes contradict medical advice. These dilemmas require nurses to navigate complex moral landscapes, applying their ethical training to arrive at a decision that respects the dignity and rights of patients while also adhering to the professional standards of care.

The resolution of these ethical dilemmas often involves critical thinking, dialogue with colleagues, and sometimes consulting ethics committees to discern the best course of action that aligns with both moral principles and professional guidelines. While the application of new technologies, building rapport with patients, and managing staff conflicts are all important aspects of nursing, they do not encapsulate the core of what makes ethical dilemmas distinct. Ethical dilemmas arise specifically due to the competing values and the moral responsibilities nurses must balance in their practice.