Ethics in assistance and in relationships: premises for a humane care

Abstract

This is a theoretical reflection that aims to explicit premises that enable the anchorage of ethic and human aspects in healthcare. Accepting the idea that "knowing the theory is not sufficient to make one act ethically, for one must also feel and experience the situation to then act clearly and respect the principles of benevolence, autonomy and justice", we can assert that the most important aspects of Ethics principles are: 1) being more aware of ourselves; 2) being focused on the relationship; 3) choosing between becoming involved or not; 4) paying attention to non-verbal communication; 5) better use of time; 6) enjoying what we do; 7) stimulating patients to participate in the decisions concerning their treatment; 8) searching relief of pain and suffering; 9) accepting death when it is unavoidable; 10) assisting the patient's family during visit hours and 11) living in harmony with the multi-professional team.