Assessment of ethical sensitivity in nursing students: Tools, trends, and implications

Background Rapid advances in medical technology, changing healthcare policies, and increasing patient diversity have exacerbated the ethical challenges. As nursing students are an integral part of the future nursing workforce, ethical sensitivity has a critical impact on their future careers. Purpose This study aims to promote research in related fields by systematically reviewing the origin and development of the concept of ethical sensitivity in nursing students, comparing currently available tools for assessing ethical sensitivity in nursing students, and exploring their applicability and reliability. Methods A literature review method was used in this study. A literature search was conducted for assessment tools published between 1995 and 2024. A total of six articles focusing on assessment tools they developed to measure ethical or moral sensitivity were included and analyzed. Results Our analysis revealed significant variations in the reliability and applicability of these assessment tools, particularly when used in diverse cultural settings. The study also identified a need for localized modifications of these tools to ensure their accuracy and relevance in different regions. Conclusion The findings provide valuable guidance for nursing educators in selecting appropriate assessment tools and offer a foundation for developing new tools that are more contextually relevant. This study contributes to the advancement of ethical sensitivity education for nursing students worldwide, ultimately enhancing patient care and professional development.