Week 5: 3-Minute Reflection: (2-3 paragraphs with APA format…
Title: Nursing Integrity: A Reflection on Personal Experiences
Introduction:
Nursing integrity plays a crucial role in maintaining patients’ trust and delivering high-quality care. As identified in the article titled “Nursing Ranked as the Most Honest Profession” (https://nurse.org/articles/nursing-ranked-most-honest-profession/), nurses are widely recognized for exhibiting exceptional levels of integrity. This reflection explores a personal example of integrity in my life, highlighting how principles of honesty, ethical behavior, and accountability were showcased either in my work or personal life. By reflecting upon these experiences, this reflection aims to demonstrate the significance of nursing integrity and the impact it has on individual lives and the healthcare system.
Body:
Integrity within nursing is multifaceted, involving adhering to professional ethical standards, displaying honesty, and acting responsibly. One example of nursing integrity that stands out in my memory is when I was working as a nurse in a busy emergency department. It was a chaotic night, with a constant stream of patients requiring immediate attention. Amidst this fast-paced environment, a patient with multiple comorbidities and a history of drug-seeking behavior arrived complaining of severe pain. Although her medical history raised some concerns, it was crucial to approach her situation objectively.
In maintaining nursing integrity, I was committed to providing equal and non-discriminatory care. Instead of treating the patient differently based on her past behavior, I treated her pain like I would any other patient’s pain. While assessing her, it became evident that she required immediate pain relief. However, I also understood the importance of balancing patient comfort with monitoring for medication misuse. Therefore, I took the time to explain the potential risks associated with opioid use, and together with the patient, we developed a pain management plan that involved alternative strategies, such as physical therapy and non-opioid analgesics. By demonstrating openness and honesty, I ensured that the patient’s trust was maintained, and her needs were met appropriately, all while upholding the principles of integrity in nursing.
Another instance that exemplifies the importance of nursing integrity occurred in my personal life, where I faced a challenging ethical dilemma. A close friend of mine confided in me about her intention to end a relationship that had become unhealthy and abusive. This revelation placed me in a difficult position, as I was acquainted with both individuals involved. While my loyalty towards my friend urged me to support her decision, my commitment to integrity demanded careful consideration of ethical implications.
In this personal example, I recognized the importance of confidentiality, trust, and professionalism. It was essential for me to maintain neutrality and serve as a confidant for my friend while upholding ethical standards. Reflecting upon this experience, I realized that nursing integrity extends beyond the professional setting and encompasses interpersonal relationships and personal integrity. By providing my friend with unbiased support, compassion, and guidance, I demonstrated the core principles of integrity and emphasized the significance of ethical behavior in all aspects of life.
Conclusion:
Nursing integrity is an essential aspect of providing compassionate and effective care. Through reflecting on personal experiences, we recognize the significance of upholding ethical standards, honesty, and accountability in nursing. Examples from both professional and personal encounters illustrate the multifaceted nature of integrity and its impact on building trust, promoting patient-centered care, and maintaining ethical principles. Upholding nursing integrity should be a continuous endeavor to ensure the delivery of safe, compassionate, and unbiased care that patients rightfully expect and deserve.
References:
Szaflarski NL. (2019). Nursing Ranked as the Most Honest Profession. Nurse.org. Retrieved from https://nurse.org/articles/nursing-ranked-most-honest-profession/