AUTHOR=González-Blázquez Francisco Javier , Ruiz-Hontangas Antonio , López-Mora Clara TITLE=Bioethical knowledge in students and health professionals: a systematic review JOURNAL=Frontiers in Medicine VOLUME=11 YEAR=2024 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1252386 DOI=10.3389/fmed.2024.1252386 ISSN=2296-858X ABSTRACT=Introduction

Bioethics training is essential for healthcare professionals as it enables them to address ethical dilemmas in their clinical practice. However, there is still a lack of rigorous teaching programs, and assessing bioethical knowledge poses challenges.

Methodology:

Systematic review using the PRISMA method.

Results

Analysis of 27 studies reveals a lack of ethical knowledge and skills among healthcare professionals and students. Specific training in bioethics is effective in developing bioethical competencies. Different approaches have been employed, including integrated training in academic curricula and intensive or ongoing programs. The results demonstrate improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and ethical values, although regularly updating these courses is recommended.

Conclusion

Specific training, institutional support, and considering regional and disciplinary differences are necessary to enhance ethics in the practice of healthcare professionals.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023437146, identifier CRD42023437146