Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

What was a major theme in Nightingale's ethics philosophy?

1. The primary goal of nursing is to fulfill societal demands

2. Nursing is primarily a secular profession

3. Moral character in nursing greatly influences practice

4. Cultural background determines ethics in nursing

The correct answer is: Moral character in nursing greatly influences practice

A major theme in Nightingale's ethics philosophy is that moral character in nursing greatly influences practice. Florence Nightingale emphasized the significance of nurses having strong ethical principles and moral integrity, believing that these qualities directly affect their ability to provide care and make sound clinical judgments. She asserted that the nurse's character and commitment to the profession are essential to fostering trust and compassion in patient relationships and ensuring high standards of care. In Nightingale's view, the nurse not only attended to physical needs but also played a vital role in promoting the overall well-being of patients. This highlights the importance of personal virtues such as honesty, empathy, and commitment in the nursing profession, which are essential for ethical practice and professionalism. The other options do not capture the essence of her philosophy as effectively. For instance, while fulfilling societal demands is an aspect of nursing, it is not the foundational ethical principle that Nightingale championed. Similarly, portraying nursing as primarily a secular profession overlooks the spiritual and moral dimensions she believed were integral to nursing. Lastly, although cultural backgrounds can influence perspectives on ethics, Nightingale's focus was more on individual moral character rather than cultural determinants. This focus highlights her belief in the intrinsic values that every nurse should possess to provide compassionate and competent care.