This module introduces students to the ethical foundations that guide professional nursing practice and clinical decision-making. Students will explore fundamental ethical principles and common ethical concerns encountered in healthcare settings, examining how these principles inform patient care decisions. The module emphasizes patient rights and advocacy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics as a framework for professional conduct and ethical practice. Students will also learn to apply evidence-based practice principles to nursing, integrating research evidence with ethical considerations to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. Through this exploration, learners will develop the ethical reasoning and professional judgment necessary to navigate complex moral situations, uphold patient rights, and maintain the integrity of the nursing profession.

This module provides students with essential knowledge of legal principles and regulations that govern nursing practice and healthcare delivery. Students will explore Nurse Practice Acts that define the scope of nursing practice, advance directives that guide end-of-life care decisions, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requirements for protecting patient privacy. The module emphasizes the Just Culture framework for addressing errors and accountability, mandatory reporting obligations for suspected abuse and unsafe practices, and risk management strategies to promote patient safety. Students will examine the application of civil and criminal law in nursing practice, including malpractice and negligence, as well as the role and protections of whistleblowing in healthcare. Through this exploration, learners will develop the legal literacy necessary to practice nursing within regulatory boundaries, protect patient rights, maintain professional accountability, and navigate complex legal situations in healthcare settings.