A Narrative Review of Nurses’ Moral Sensitivity in Intensive Care Units: Dimensions, Influencing Factors and Outcomes
akhlāq-i pizishkī i.e., Medical Ethics,
Vol. 19 (1404),
25 September 2025
,
Page 1-12
https://doi.org/10.22037/mej.v19i-.50354
Abstract
Background and Aim: Moral sensitivity is a key component of the nursing profession, playing a crucial role in determining the quality of care provided in intensive care units (ICUs). This narrative review aimed to explore the dimensions, influencing factors and outcomes of nurses’ moral sensitivity in critical care settings.
Methods: This narrative review was conducted through a comprehensive search of reputable Persian and English databases, including Magiran, SID, Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine relevant articles were selected and analysed.
Ethical Considerations: To ensure the validity and reliability of the study, all inclusion and exclusion criteria were strictly followed and only studies published in credible scientific sources were included.
Results: Moral sensitivity among ICU nurses can be discussed across four main dimensions: education and development of moral sensitivity, its relationship with patient safety attitudes, the role of experience and mental workload and the impact of teamwork and interprofessional collaboration. Enhancing moral sensitivity contributes to improved care quality, reduced risky behaviours and greater patient safety.
Conclusion: Strengthening professional ethics education, providing organizational support and promoting effective teamwork play significant roles in enhancing nurses’ moral sensitivity. These factors can improve care quality and patient satisfaction. Considering moral sensitivity as a multidimensional construct and investing in its development may foster professional commitment among nurses and lead to more positive care outcomes.
- Moral Sensitivity
- Nurses
- Intensive Care Units
How to Cite
References
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