An invaluable support for learning throughout all levels of training, this book introduces the key legal, ethical and professional principles guiding nursing and healthcare practice. Illustrating clearly how legal and ethical principles interplay and inform professional development, Graham Avery focuses directly on the vital areas - such as negligence, consent, confidentiality, and professional conduct - that healthcare students and practitioners need to understand in order to practice safely and ethically. Adopting a very practical, accessible approach, central themes and arguments are highlighted with real and fictional case studies which will help readers connect the often 'dry' topics of law and ethics to their own work with patients. End-of-chapter exercises also serve to encourage critical thinking and to challenge opinion. With further chapters covering more specific areas such as mental health law, end-of-life decisions, and children's law, this will be an indispensable resource for all nursing and healthcare students and practitioners.