Take an ethical stand!

Coalition of Nurses on Management Boards

In this turbulent era of health care, we’re all called to concentrate on our contributions and their potential impact on our society and nursing, especially in inner cities, rural America, suburban America, U.S. territories, and internationally. Sharing your input on essential decisions often requires taking an ethical stance. The decision-making methods we use are influenced by our personal and skilled core values, experiences, backgrounds, and preparation. The American Nurses Association Code of Ethics AND Nurses on boards Basic competencies of the Coalition Board can function a guide in taking a stand on constructing a healthier America.

10 key considerations in ethical decision-making to make sure a positive consequence:

1. Do your homework on the subject.
2. Be objective; consider all perspectives before drawing your personal conclusions.
3. Maintain curiosity and a willingness to explore all relevant ideas and approaches.
4. Seek the perspectives of all stakeholders; listen with an open mind.
5. Consider the social determinants of health.
6. Express empathy; consider the implications of this decision for others.
7. Provide evidence-based reasons to support your position.
8. Strive for the very best possible results for the advantage of all.
9. State your position clearly and concisely.
10. Engage in reflective practice.

According to Pam Rudisill, DNP, RN, MSN, NEA-BC, FAAN, senior vp and chief nursing officer at Community Health Systems (CHS) of Tennessee, AONE, past president:

Call to motion:

Your role and confidence as a nurse leader in taking an ethical stance is critical as you serve or desire to serve on a board. We hope that our column will function a tool for reflection and strengthening your ethical influence as you serve on boards and in other leadership positions.

American Nurses Association (2015). . http://www.nursingworld.org/codeofethics
International Nursing Council (2012). T. Geneva, Switzerland. http://www.icn.ch/who-we-are/code-of-ethics-for-nurses

Coalition of Nurses on Boards (2017). . http://www.nursesonboardscoalition.org