Nurses must navigate a complex landscape of legal and ethical challenges. They are responsible for maintaining patient confidentiality and making critical decisions that can have profound implications on patient outcomes. Failure to adhere to ethical standards and legal regulations can result in professional disciplinary action and legal consequences.
Continual education on ethical and legal issues, along with clear communication and documentation practices, can help nurses manage these risks effectively. Organizations should also provide support systems, such as ethics committees and legal counsel, to assist nurses in navigating these challenges.