Ethical issues in perianesthesia nursing.

Ethical issues have historically been a significant focus in perianesthesia nursing. Issues of safety, privacy, and informed consent are never far from the consciousness of the perianesthesia nurse. As the national organization that serves as a clearing ground for issues and goals of perianesthesia nursing practice, ASPAN has begun the process of developing a code of ethics for perianesthesia nursing practice. This report is designed to provide a brief review of the important definitions and principles that are used in the discussion of ethics, review the contemporary forces that mandate and justify the development of an ethical code, and explore how such a code may function to aid and guide nursing practice.