Values Clarification: Identifying what Matters to Nurses and Clients & Respecting the Differences

The purpose of Chapter four is to inform nurses to learn how to respect differences in opinions through the process of values clarification. When a nurse is unaware of their values, especially when it comes to precarious subject matter, they may inadvertently impose their point of view onto others. From an ethical perspective, this type of response can be extremely problematic. It is recommended that nurses go through the process of uncovering their hidden values by increasing self-awareness. Nurses are also encouraged to use empathetic listening to respect client beliefs that differ from their own. Moral agency, moral residue and moral disengagement are explained. Unresolved moral conflicts can sometimes lead to moral residue that causes a nurse to become morally disengaged. Nurses are advised to get help before this occurs. Self-care strategies are highly recommended. In the Case in Point a client’s right to choose results in moral residue for the nurse.

Keywords: Attitudes, Beliefs, Empathetic listening, Respect, Moral agency, Moral disengagement, Moral residue, Moral outrage, Reflective journaling, Selfawareness, Values clarification, Values.