what are the 4 components of RPN integrity
- moral autonomy
- fidelity
- steadfastness
- wholeness
describe moral autonomy for RPNs and give an example
Ability to make choices; ability to decide whether to be obedient or reject authority, stand up for patients
e.g., the right to refuse to provide care if you feel unsafe
what is fidelity in relation to RPN integrity
- Promise keeping (to the patient, to the public; code of ethics, standards of practice)
define steadfastness for RPNs
e.g.?
- resolute
- means to withstand pressure
- e.g., time management and stress management
describe wholeness for RPNs
RPNs have many roles in their lives (RPN, parent, child, friend etc)
- Instructs you to be the same moral person in all those roles (Not stealing from friends – not stealing from work)
- Includes being accountable for your actions
examples of challenges RPNs face regarding moral integrity
- The right to refuse giving medication
- Using restraints on patients
- being involved with patients using MAID
Questions to ask employers in interviews
- Ask about opportunities for advancement; to specialize; for mentoring
what is a moral dilemma
an unethical challenge; not knowing what to do
what is the difference between moral dilemma and moral distress
dilemma = not knowing what to do
distress = you know what to do, but you’re being kept from doing it
what is moral distress
- you know what to do, but you’re being kept from doing it
- making decisions in the face of barriers such as institutional policies rigid protocols, lack of resources, lack of time
what is moral residue
- the aftermath of moral distress
- not doing what you know needs to be done, sticks with you (feels like a moral failure that you cant wash off)
what is moral courage
– moral resilience; bouncing back from moral distress
- not something you have to do on your own, having the support of other RPNS
what is moral injury
- a loss of trust when you witness your peers or leaders act in a way that violates ethical expectations
- results in moral residue
example of moral injury
- patient liberty restricted when a patient doesn’t fulfill requirements for involuntary
- Negative stigma shown by doctors and other nurses
