Relational and embodied knowing: Nursing ethics within the interprofessional team

Abstract

In this article we attempt to situate nursing within the interprofessional care team with respect to processes of ethical practice and ethical decision making. After briefly reviewing the concept of interprofessionalism, the idea of a nursing ethic as 'unique' within the context of an interprofessional team will be explored. We suggest that nursing's distinct perspective on the moral matters of health care stem not from any privileged vantage point but rather from knowledge developed through the daily activities of nursing practice. Because of their position vis-à-vis patients and families in everyday clinical care, nurses cultivate ethical knowledge of at least two forms: (1) relational knowledge; and (2) embodied knowledge. Through the integration of these forms of knowledge, nurses develop a unique moral perspective and can make a meaningful contribution to the realm of ethics in interprofessional care.

Ethics and Policy for Interprofessional Scopes of Practice: Preparing Bariatric Care Teams

“…15 Autonomy within an interprofessional practice framework is viewed as a relational and interdependent relative to the decision-making process of a patient-centered team care rather than solely independent. 15 This viewpoint may challenge the ways in which some disciplines engage in resolving ethical conflicts. Professionalism demands the acquisition of competencies that will foster equitable negotiation in patient care, furthering healthcare effectiveness.…”

“…15 A single discipline is unable to address all domains of human need holistically. Consequently, health professions have an imperative duty to prepare for interprofessional practice.…”

Nursing Faculty Considerations in Closing the Gaps of Interprofessional Education

“…Wright and Brajtman (2011) note that IPCP teams are increasingly recognized as being able to deliver high quality patient care. However, this is not supported by evidence.…”

Ethical sensitivity in practice: finding tacit moral knowing

“…Experienced healthcare workers do know which moral good is disclosed by a specific care practice and they also know what constitutes excellent care and poor care. Nursing's distinct perspective on the moral matters of healthcare stem not from any privileged vantage point but rather from knowledge developed through the daily activities of nursing practice (Wright & Brajtman , p. 20). Nurses, and also other experienced health‐care workers, such as chaplains and physicians, have a unique perspective from within daily care on the aims of care without which all talk of ‘quality of care’ would be without any meaning, as there is no quality without the substance of care.…”