Relational ethics in forensic psychiatric settings.

Abstract

1. The pressure of the competing demands of custody and caring shapes the moral climate of forensic settings. 2. A relational approach to health care ethics, requiring the opening of dialogue, consideration of multiple perspectives, and attention to context, can guide nurses as they strive to engage and respect even their most estranged patients. 3. The core elements of relational ethics include mutual respect, engagement, and attention to the environment.