Perception of nursing teachers about nursing students professional ethical competency: A qualitative study

Ethical competency is one of the most important aspects of qualification in the nursing profession. In spite of the consensus over its importance, findings of the relevant studies show that there are many problems in the way of defining this concept. The aim of this study is description and expression of perception of nursing teachers about nursing students’ professional ethical competency. For this qualitative study, twenty teachers from Tehran nursing faculties were selected purposively. The data were gathered by employing semistructured interviews. The interviews were verbatim transcribed and analyzed according to the qualitative content analysis based on Graneheim and Lundman method. The analysis of data demonstrated five main categories about structure of nursing students’ professional ethical competency include: Individual characteristics and believes, theoretical knowledge and practical skills, holistic view on patient, ability to critical thinking and decision making, employing proper humanitarian relations. The results of this research could be useful in development of nursing educational programs. Paying attention to these dimensions of professional ethical competency can enhance the quality of nursing care. Also can prevent medical care errors and guarantee patients’ rights.