The fourth edition of this key text lays a solid foundation for understanding the intersection of law, ethics and the rights of the patient in the context of everyday nursing and healthcare practice. Outlining the key legal and ethical principles relevant to nurses, Essential Law and Ethics in Nursing uses an easy-to-read style that conveys key principles in an accessible way.This new edition provides a clear understanding not only of basic legal provisions in healthcare but also of wider issues relating to human rights. includes expanded coverage of patient safety and ‘do no harm’, mental health, inclusion and the use of artificial intelligence covers topics such as ethical decision‑making, the regulation of nursing, confidentiality, laws concerning human rights, safe practice, vulnerable people, elder abuse and employment regulations and features a range of pedagogical features to aid learning, such as thinking points, case studies, and boxed relevant case law to help link theory with practice This is essential reading for nurses and an important reference for midwives and allied health professionals.