Which term refers to the principles that guide individuals in making decisions about right and wrong?

The term that refers to the principles guiding individuals in making decisions about right and wrong is ethics. Ethics encompasses the moral values and standards that inform how people determine what actions are right or wrong in various situations. In various professional practices, including nursing, ethics is crucial as it influences how care is delivered, how conflicts are resolved, and how professionals interact with patients and colleagues.

For example, in nursing, ethical guidelines might cover issues such as patient confidentiality, informed consent, and the obligation to do no harm. These principles help ensure that care is not only effective but also respectful of the rights and dignity of individuals.

Understanding ethics is essential for making sound, moral choices and is fundamental to ensuring responsible practice in any vocational field.