An introduction to ethical theory for junior nurses

Nurses must account for the ethical standards of their practice if called to do so by their professional body, meaning that ethics is a part of daily practice. Ethics is about making a personal judgement, meaning ethical standards are usually broad, but this can make ethical standards appear unclear or intimidating. Because of this, it is important that nurses understand how the topic of ethics manifests in ethical theory, the degree ethical theory can inform practice, and its limitations. Presenting the main ethical theories, I highlight their perspectives and drawbacks. I then discuss how philosophers scrutinise ethical decisions. I conclude that, whatever the limits of ethical theory as a definitive guide to practice, reflection on ethical theory can help nurses to critically balance workplace demands for technical efficiency with the need to be compassionate and caring toward patients