PSYCHOLOGY IN NURSING. Professional culture and care: what is best for the patient?

The article focuses on ethical dilemmas which nurses can face when what is expected of them does not match what they feel is right for a patient in a particular situation. A discussion of factors, including workplace culture and a lingering philosophy of paternalism among nurses, which can lead to ethical dilemmas, is presented. The author's opinions on ways to reduce ethical dilemmas in the nursing profession are examined.