# Translational bioethics in nursing: a conceptual review of definitions, applications and ethical implications

## TL;DR

This paper explores how translational bioethics can improve ethical decision-making in nursing by connecting theory with real-world practice.

## Contribution

The paper provides a novel conceptual analysis of translational bioethics in nursing, clarifying its attributes and practical implications.

## Key findings

- Translational bioethics has four key attributes: bridging theory-practice gaps, ethical evaluation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social responsibility.
- Antecedents include ethical dilemmas and identifying theory-practice gaps.
- Consequences include improved patient care and informed policy decisions.

## Abstract

Bioethics is fundamental in healthcare, guiding ethical decision-making and patient care. Translational bioethics (TB) aims to bridge the gap between ethical theories and real-world practice, including nursing. However, the concept of TB has not been clearly examined yet. Therefore, this concept analysis was done to provide clarity and practical meaning to the concept of translational bioethics within the context of nursing.

Walker and Avant’s concept analysis framework was employed to examine TB and apply it to nursing practice. A systematic search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and PubMed Central, was conducted. Papers were screened and twenty-five eligible full-text records included in analysis.

The analysis identified four key defining attributes of TB, including bridging the theory-practice gap, ethical evaluation and decision making, interdisciplinary collaboration, social responsibility and societal impact. Antecedents included ethical dilemmas, identifying theory-practice gaps, and commitment to real-world impact. The consequences of TB encompassed improved patient care, reduction of ethical conflicts, positive social impact, and informed policy and decision making.

This study provided a clear conceptual model of TB, offering insights into its antecedents, attributes, and consequences. Translational bioethics can be defined as an approach that bridges ethical theory and practice through research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a focus on contextual ethical evaluation and decision making, aiming for socially responsible and impactful outcomes.