The 5 Core Values of Nursing

Imagine your favorite medical drama – the drama, the emotions, and the stethoscopes. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping scenes, core values are what truly drive the actions of every character. These values serve as silent compasses that ensure every patient receives the care they deserve. Core values aren't just words; they are the lifeblood of nursing, guiding actions and beliefs, and forming the very soul of this profession.

Today, we're diving deep into the heart and soul of nursing—the core values that shape our practice, guide our decisions, and make us the extraordinary caregivers we are. Nursing isn't a run of the mill a job; it's a skill, an art, and a privilege. So, let's roll up our sleeves and explore the five core values that every nurse upholds.

The Quintessential Five: Core Values Every Nurse Upholds

In the world of nursing, five core values serve as the guiding principles that shape every nurse's practice. These values—compassion, integrity, autonomy, altruism, and social justice—form the bedrock of nursing ethics and drive the profession's unwavering commitment to patient care. Let’s review the meaning behind each of these core values.

Compassion: The Heartbeat of Nursing Care

Compassion isn't just a warm and fuzzy feeling; it's the very essence of nursing. If you've ever wondered what makes us different from robots in scrubs, it's compassion. It's that reassuring touch, the empathetic smile, and the comforting words that can make a patient's day a little brighter.

Practical Tip: In the whirlwind of a busy shift, it's easy to lose sight of compassion. But here's a secret: it's the little things that count. Take an extra minute to hold a patient's hand, ask how they're feeling, or simply offer a listening ear. Compassion is often found in the smallest gestures.

Integrity: Building Trust in Every Medical Encounter

Integrity is the bedrock of the nurse-patient relationship. Without it, trust crumbles like a cookie dunked in milk. It's about being honest, transparent, and reliable. Whether you're safeguarding a patient's privacy, explaining a procedure, or keeping promises, integrity ensures trust is not just established but firmly rooted.

Practical Tip: Transparency is key. If you're unsure about something, don't pretend to have all the answers. Admit it, and promise to find out. Patients appreciate honesty and will trust you more for it.

Autonomy: Empowering Patient-Centered Care

Imagine at a moment in your life where you were robbed of your right to make decisions for yourself. Not a fun experience, right? Autonomy in nursing means giving the power back to the patient. It's about respecting their choices, honoring their decisions, and ensuring they always feel in control of their care.

Practical Tip: Engage patients in their care plan. Explain the options, risks, and benefits, and let them make informed decisions. It's their health, after all, and they should have a say in it.

Altruism: Nursing's Selfless Dedication to Wellness

Altruism is the heartbeat of nursing's dedication to wellness. It's the willingness to go above and beyond, all for the satisfaction of making a difference and the sheer love of nursing.

Practical Tip: Remember why you chose this path. On tough days, remind yourself of the smiles you've brought to patients' faces and the impact you've had on their lives. Altruism is what fuels our resilience.

Social Justice: Advocating for Equity in Health

Everyone, regardless of their background, should get the same level of care. That's what nursing aims to achieve through social justice. It's about leveling the playing field, ensuring everyone gets their fair slice, no more, no less.

Practical Tip: Advocate for your patients. Be their voice when they can't speak up for themselves. Challenge disparities and work towards a healthcare system that treats everyone equally.

Bridging Theory and Reality: Core Values in Action

Now that we've dissected the core values, let's see how they play out in the real, unpredictable world of healthcare. These values aren't just inspirational words on posters; they're the lifeblood of our profession.

Theory Meets Practice: Values in Daily Care

On paper, values can sound like lines from an inspirational poster. But in the hustle and bustle of nursing, they're as real as the beeping monitors. Compassion is evident when a nurse holds the hand of a nervous patient. Integrity shines when a nurse stands up for what’s right. Autonomy is upheld when choices are respected. Altruism shows up in every selfless act, and social justice echoes in every advocacy effort.

Here are a few way these values may have shown up in your nursing practice. Check these out and let’s see if you can relate to any of them!

Compassion in Action: You’re holding the hand of a nervous patient before a daunting procedure. Or sitting with a patient after they received bad news.

Integrity Shining Bright: You’re standing up for a patient's rights, ensuring their dignity and privacy are respected. This could be you protecting a patients medical information from being shared inappropriately, or ensuring your patients are kept clean while in your care. That's integrity in the spotlight, ensuring trust remains unshaken.

Autonomy Upheld: Think about times you have explained treatment options to a patient, empowering them to make decisions about their own health. Autonomy is about respecting choices and honoring decisions.

Altruism on Display: Consider the countless time you have gone above and beyond the call of duty, for the sake of a patient's well-being. Altruism is about selfless dedication.

Championing Social Justice: Picture a nurse advocating for better resources and care for underserved communities. That nurse may have been you! That's nursing's commitment to social justice, striving for equitable healthcare for all.

Inspiring Stories: Core Values Illustrated in Real Life

The Assemble community is full of nurses who not only understand these values, but lead by example. Take DoRhonja Nichols, the director of critical care and Behavioral Health Services at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, who saw an gap in care for people of color and worked to find a solution.

She found that the haircare supplies normally provided at hospitals did not meet the needs of people of color. She partnered with a local hair care business that creates products for people of color and began stocking those supplies in her facility. Fixing an issue and improving the quality of care for all patients of color in her hospital.

To hear about her story, how she did it, and what you can do if you want to make a change, check out her talk with Assemble co-founder, Tessi Flood, here!

In Conclusion: The Pillars Elevating the World of Nursing

At the core of nursing are these values—compassion, integrity, autonomy, altruism, and social justice—that shape our practice and define who we are as caregivers. We know this and see this with the Assemble Community!

So, here's to each one of you, making a difference, one value at a time. Whether you're a seasoned nurse or a nursing student embarking on this remarkable journey, never forget the power of these core values. They are the secret spices that make nursing an unforgettable and fulfilling adventure. Cheers to the privilege of being a nurse!

FAQ’s

1. What are the 6 C's of nursing? The 6 C's of nursing are a set of principles that were introduced by the Chief Nursing Officer for England to guide nursing practice. They include: Care: Providing high-quality, compassionate care. Compassion: Showing empathy and understanding towards patients. Competence: Demonstrating clinical and professional competence. Communication: Effective communication with patients and colleagues. Courage: Having the courage to advocate for patients and make difficult decisions. Commitment: Commitment to the profession and continuous improvement in care delivery.
2. What are the 7 nursing ethics? Nursing ethics encompass a set of moral principles that govern the ethical behavior and decision-making of nurses. While there are various ethical principles in nursing, the seven key nursing ethics often referred to include: Autonomy: Respecting the patient's right to make decisions about their care. Beneficence: Acting in the best interest of the patient and promoting their well-being. Non-Maleficence: Avoiding harm and minimizing risks to patients. Justice: Ensuring fairness and equitable distribution of care. Fidelity: Upholding trust and maintaining promises and commitments. Veracity: Being truthful and honest in all interactions. Confidentiality: Protecting patient information and privacy.
3. What are the nursing core values and leadership? Nursing core values remain consistent in leadership roles within the profession. These values include the principles of compassion, integrity, altruism, autonomy, and social justice. In leadership, nurses must exemplify these values to inspire and guide their teams, foster a culture of patient-centered care, and advocate for ethical practices within healthcare organizations. Leadership in nursing involves not only managing clinical aspects but also nurturing a values-based approach to healthcare delivery.