Choose one provision from the ANA Code of Ethics. How is ethical behavior an integral part of being a nurse leader? How does one communicate the characteristics of a role model with this provision? Do ethics influence the leadership style of the nurse leader? Explain your rationale.
Provision 1 of the ANA Code of Ethics states that compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and distinctive qualities of every individual are practiced by nurses (ANA, n.d.). Trust, respect, and professionalism is fostered in the workplace when leaders integrate ethical behavior in their practice. Nurse leaders are expected to uphold ethical standards like honesty, integrity, and respect for the rights and dignity of others. Ethical leadership is characterized by a commitment to social justice, transparency, and responsible stewardship of resources (Williams, 2022). By practicing ethical behaviors, nurse leaders can inspire and motivate others to act ethically and responsibly. Effective communication of the characteristics of being a role model is done by using clear and simple language, providing examples of positive behavior, and using stories or scenarios to illustrate these characteristics. Through its ability too engage audiences and maintain their interest, storytelling has the potential to create a shared understanding among people about a situation, a topic, or a problem and help audiences form deep connections (Sundin et al., 2018).
Nurse leaders that exhibit the transformational style prioritize ethics in their decision-making. They emphasize ethical considerations, teamwork and collaboration, that leads to positive work environments. According to Moon & Jung (2018), ethical leadership styles lead to improved organizational outcomes like job satisfaction, retention, and improved patient safety. It is crucial for leaders to uphold ethical principles and standards of their practice and model the behaviors to influence and inspire others to do the same.
American Nurses Association. (n.d.). Nurses Code of Ethics. https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/nursing-excellence/ethics/code-of-ethics-for-nurses/
Moon, K.-K., & Jung, C. (2018). Management representativeness, ethical leadership, and employee job satisfaction in the U.S. Federal Government. Public Personnel Management, 47(3), 265–286. https://doi.org/10.1177/0091026018767480
Sundin, A., Andersson, K. & Watt, R. Rethinking communication: integrating storytelling for increased stakeholder engagement in environmental evidence synthesis. Environ Evid7, 6 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13750-018-0116-4
Williams, A. (2022). What is Ethical Leadership: How to be an Ethical Leader. https://bvop.org/journal/ethical-leadership/
