CODE OF ETHICS FOR NURSES
The Code of Ethics for Nurses is a guide for
conducting nursing responsibilities in a manner
consistent with quality in nursing care and the
ethical obligations of the profession. It
emphasizes the practice of compassion,
respect, and dignity towards every person.
The five main principles are:
 Nonmaleficence (do no harm)
 Beneficence (do good - taking steps to
benefit patients and to improve their
health outcomes)
 Autonomy (respect for patient's choice
and independence)
 Justice (fairness)
 Privacy/Confidentiality (ensure the privacy
of patient information and respect their
right to control who can access it)
CONTINGENCY THEORY
This is a behavioral theory that claims there is
no single best way to lead an organization,
make decisions, or organize a corporation. It
suggests that optimal course of action is
contingent (dependent) upon the internal and
external situation. A leading theorist in this
area was Fred Fiedler.
EXCHANGE THEORY
This is a social psychological and sociological
perspective that explains social change and
stability as a process of negotiated exchanges
between parties5. Theorists like George
Homans and Peter Blau have been associated
with the development of this theory.
PATH-GOAL THEORY
This leadership theory states that a leader's
function is to clear the path toward the goal of
the group, by meeting the needs of
subordinates. Robert House is the psychologist
who developed this theory.
SITUATIONAL THEORY
This theory suggests that leaders choose the
best course of action based upon situational
conditions or circumstances. Different styles of
leadership may be more appropriate for
different types of decision-making. Hersey and
Blanchard are the theorists behind this model.
STYLE THEORY
Also known as the Leadership Styles Theory, it
suggests that leaders have a preferred style of
leadership which they're comfortable with, and
they need to adjust this preferred style to the
needs of different situations and followers.
This theory is closely associated with Kurt
Lewin and his colleagues.
TRAIT THEORY
This theory suggests that individuals have
certain inherent traits that make them
effective leaders. It identifies specific
personality or behavioral characteristics shared
by leaders. Theorists like Ralph Stogdill and
Edwin Ghiselli contributed to this theory.
TRANSACTIONAL THEORY
Transactional leadership theory, also known as
Managerial leadership, focuses on the role of
supervision, organization, and group
performance, where leaders promote
compliance by followers through both rewards
and punishments. Bernard Bass was a key
figure in developing this theory.
TRANSFORMATIONAL THEORY
This theory is about leadership that creates
positive change in the followers whereby they
take care of each other's interests and act in
the interest of the group as a whole. James
Victor Downton first coined the term
Transformational leadership, but the concept
was further developed by leadership expert
James V. Burns.