A Quantitative Assessment of Medical Ethics Competence in Undergraduate Nursing and Midwifery Students

Abstract

Competence in medical ethics is vital for nursing and midwifery students to navigate ethical dilemmas in clinical practice. Understanding how these students apply ethical principles is crucial for improving healthcare education. This assessment aimed to assess the level of medical ethics competence among undergraduate nursing and midwifery students and explore demographic factors that may influence their performance. A total of 316 undergraduate nursing and midwifery students participated in the assessment. Participants completed a structured questionnaire consisting of case-based scenarios designed to evaluate their knowledge and application of core ethical principles, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-test, chi-square test, and multiple regression analysis. Most students demonstrated a basic understanding of medical ethics but struggled to apply ethical principles to clinical scenarios. Senior students performed better than first-year students and gender differences were observed in specific ethical areas. Regression analysis revealed that the year of study and GPA were significant predictors of medical ethics competence. Findings emphasize the need for a more practical and case-based approach to ethics education. Strengthening ethics training in nursing and midwifery programs, particularly in later years, can better prepare students for the ethical challenges faced in clinical settings.