Which practice supports ethical nursing standards?

Engaging in continuous professional development is foundational to supporting ethical nursing standards. This practice ensures that nurses remain informed about the latest evidence-based practices, ethical guidelines, and advancements in patient care. Continuous education enhances clinical skills and competence, which ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes and safer practices.

By committing to lifelong learning, nurses can better advocate for their patients, maintain informed consent processes, and recognize ethical dilemmas when they arise. This dedication to knowledge and self-improvement reinforces the nurse's ability to provide care that is respectful, culturally sensitive, and aligned with the best interests of patients.

In contrast to this, prioritizing hospital policies over patient needs and minimizing team communication can lead to a lack of patient-centered care and collaboration, which diminishes the quality of nursing practice. Ignoring patient feedback may result in ineffective care that does not meet individual patient needs, undermining ethical principles of autonomy and respect. Therefore, continuous professional development is a critical practice that aligns with and upholds ethical nursing standards.