We only have the right to give medical education and advice out to clients such as “exercising 30 minutes a day” or “quit smoking to reduce chance of lung cancer”. We are not trained or educated as legal consultants and shouldn’t behave as such. To protect your nursing license, “encourage clients to confer with their families and to consult an attorney” (Rosdahl, 2012, p. 39).
Being competent in your practice is another ethical principle of the nursing profession. Not only should you understand your skill set as a nurse but also be knowledgeable about the policies and procedures of the facility you work for. This principle also means you should come to work fully prepared meaning no lack of sleep or hindering of your practice from drugs and alcohol. You have to be responsible to correct your mistakes and not ignore your patient’s needs (Rosdahl, 2012, p.