Perceived adequacy of nursing ethics education in associate degree nursing programs in Oregon

It was the purpose of this study to describe Oregon's associate degree nurses' perceptions of the types and frequency of ethical dilemmas encountered in the first two years of clinical practice, the factors contributing to their ability to address ethical dilemmas and the adequacy of their preparation to take action when confronted by an ethical dilemma. The design for the study was descriptive. The data was gathered by surveying graduates from seven of thirteen Oregon associate degree nursing programs. All respondents reported confronting ethical dilemmas in practice. Pain management issues were reported most frequently. The employing agency influenced the frequency and types of ethical issues encountered more than did the primary nursing role. Nurses employed by hospitals reported the highest frequency of encounters. Ethics content in associate degree nursing courses was cited most often as a contributing factor to the ability to address ethical dilemmas. Graduates rated themselves to be moderately to highly prepared in nine of twelve actions of ethical decision making.