The patient as an individual

Abstract

Respect for the individuality of patients is a fundamental principle of nursing ethics, Clause 6 of the Code of Professional Conduct outlines one of the consequences of this principle where it says: ‘Take account of the customs, values and spiritual beliefs of patients/clients.’ Nurses must be prepared to recognise that their patients are entitled to see things in ways that may seem strange and to have their choices respected even if they appear irrational.