Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Ethical challenges and moral uncertainty are inevitable during infectious disease crises. To support ethical nursing practices, understanding the ethical competencies required in such contexts is essential.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to explore the phenomenon related to ethical competence among clinical nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.Research Design, Participants and Research ContextA qualitative explorative approach was used. Data were collected through focus group interviews from 10 clinical nurses working in general and tertiary hospitals in Korea, and analyzed using content analysis.Ethical ConsiderationsThis study was approved by the institutional review board of the university to which the researchers belonged.ResultsThis study derived five core categories-moral solidarity, moral courage, ethical knowledge, ethical decision-making, and ethical reflection-along with their respective components.ConclusionsThis study provides empirical evidence that can contribute to a structured conceptualization of nursing ethical competence for infectious disease crises. Further research is suggested to contribute to practical educational and institutional support to strengthen this competence.
Source: Nursing Ethics
Authors: Hye Min Byun, Eun Kyoung Yun
Institution: Kyung Hee University
Language: English
Topic: Ethics in medical practice
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Funder: Ministry of Health and Welfare
Award: G1003045876
OpenAlex ID: W4409505289