title: Ethical theories and principles.
abstract: Ethically sensitive situations and issues are not new in today's health care practice. They are increasing in frequency and complexity. For practitioners to face these challenges, they must not only understand their own values and beliefs, but understand the tools available to resolve these ethical dilemmas when they arise. Ethical theories and principles and decision-making models can assist the practitioner in obtaining resolution.
authors.forename: C D
authors.initials: CD
authors.lastname: Smith
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003661:Decision Support Techniques; D004993:Ethics, Nursing; D006801:Humans; D009726:Nurses / Q000523:psychology; D009742:Nursing Theory