Compare and examine the consequences of an unethical behaviors in a nursing Master’s program and in the nursing practice by providing one example for each.
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Unethical behavior can have severe consequences in both a nursing Master’s program and in the nursing practice setting. These consequences can adversely affect patient outcomes, damage professional reputation, and preclude career advancement. This essay will examine the consequences of unethical behavior in both contexts while providing one example for each.
In a nursing Master’s program, unethical behavior can lead to severe academic and professional consequences. For instance, plagiarism is a grave ethical violation that can occur in this context. Plagiarism involves using someone else’s ideas, words, or work without proper acknowledgment. An example of plagiarism in a nursing Master’s program could be a student who copies and pastes an entire section from a journal article into their research paper without citing the source. The consequences of such unethical behavior can be devastating. From an academic standpoint, the student may face disciplinary action, such as failing the assignment or even being expelled from the program. Moreover, the individual's credibility and reputation can suffer, making it difficult for them to secure future professional opportunities. Additionally, plagiarism undermines the integrity of the nursing profession as a whole, eroding trust and compromising patient care.
In the nursing practice, unethical behavior can significantly impact patient outcomes and professional reputation. A prime example of this is the failure to maintain patient confidentiality. Healthcare providers are bound by ethical standards to protect their patients' privacy and maintain the confidentiality of their health information. However, a nurse who knowingly shares a patient's personal health information with unauthorized individuals violates this ethical obligation. The consequences of breaching patient confidentiality can be severe. Firstly, it compromises patient trust, making it less likely that individuals will seek appropriate care if they fear their private information may be shared without consent. Secondly, violating patient confidentiality can also have legal ramifications, potentially exposing the nurse to litigation and professional consequences such as license revocation or suspension. Lastly, this unethical behavior can tarnish the nurse's professional reputation, limiting career opportunities and damaging relationships with colleagues.
In conclusion, unethical behavior in a nursing Master’s program and in the nursing practice setting can have wide-ranging consequences. From academic and professional penalties to compromised patient care and damaged reputations, the fallout from unethical behavior is significant. It is crucial for nursing professionals and students to strive for ethical conduct always, as it is integral to preserving the integrity of the nursing profession and ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
Reference:
Masters, K. (2014). Role development in professional nursing practice. Jones & Bartlett Publishers.