Taking Shortcuts and Workarounds: Is it Ethical?

ABSTRACT

Current healthcare practices are geared toward standardized policies and procedures that are intended to guide the practice of all members of the healthcare professions, especially the practice of nurses. Instead of using predefined practices, nurses often choose shortcuts or workarounds to complete daily work in healthcare institutions. Are the shortcuts considered ethical for nurse practice or for members of the discipline of nursing? This article begins an ethical straight-thinking discussion on the conflicting values and implications for those who offer professional nurse services and those who receive these services.