Professional Nursing Deontology: An integrative review
Keywords:
Deontology, Professional ethics, Nursing, Deontological code, Deontological commissionsAbstract
BackgroundProfessional deontology in nursing consists of a set of ethical norms and principles that govern the practice of this discipline, ensuring high-quality care based on respect for human dignity and patient autonomy. This normative framework is essential for ensuring that professional practice responds to societal needs and adapts to social, technological, and healthcare changes.
ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to analyze the concept of professional deontology in nursing, distinguishing it from ethics, and to explore the role of deontological codes and deontological commissions in professional practice.
MethodologyA narrative review was conducted by consulting recognized scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed articles published in the last five years in journals indexed in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) were included, as well as official documents from organizations such as the International Council of Nurses (ICN) and the General Council of Official Nursing Colleges of Spain. Historical texts and case studies were also reviewed to provide a solid theoretical and practical framework.
ResultsDeontology and ethics, while related, are distinct concepts. Ethics addresses universal principles of right and wrong, while deontology establishes specific norms for professional practice. Deontological codes, such as the ICN Code of Ethics and the Deontological Code of the General Council of Official Nursing Colleges of Spain, are fundamental tools for guiding professional practice. Furthermore, deontological commissions play a crucial role in overseeing compliance with these norms, resolving ethical dilemmas, and promoting continuous education in deontology.
ConclusionProfessional deontology in nursing is an essential pillar for ensuring ethical and responsible practice. Deontological codes and commissions ensure that the profession aligns with fundamental ethical values and societal expectations. It is imperative that deontology continues to evolve to address emerging challenges in the healthcare field.
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- 2026-04-23 (2)
- 2026-03-31 (1)
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