From theory to practice: a systematic review and meta-analysis of ethical sensitivity in Iranian nursing students

Abstract

Ethical sensitivity is vital for nursing students as it affects decision-making and care quality. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed ethical sensitivity among Iranian nursing students. For this purpose, databases (MagIran, SID, PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Web of Science) were searched up to December 30, 2024. Observational studies reporting ethical sensitivity scores were selected, and scores were standardized to a 0–100 scale. Heterogeneity was assessed using I², and analyses were performed with STATA. Sixteen studies yielded a pooled ethical sensitivity score of 67% (95% CI: 62–72), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 87.2%). Subgroup analyses (by publication year and language) and meta-regression (age, *Corresponding Author Simin Sharafi Address: School of Nursing & Midwifery, Moalem Sq., Birjand, Iran. Postal Code: 9717853577 Tel: (+98) 56 32 38 14 28 Email: siminsharafi@bums.ac.ir Received: 18 Sep 2025 Accepted: 9 Feb 2026 Published: 20 Jun 2026 Citation to this article: Ghanei Gheshlagh R, Dehvan F, Bigdeli K, Sharafi S. From theory to practice: a systematic review and meta-analysis of ethical sensitivity in Iranian nursing students. J Med Ethics Hist Med. 2026; 19: 6. sample size) identified no significant moderators, and sensitivity analysis and trim-and-fill confirmed the stability of the estimate. Based on the findings, ethical sensitivity among Iranian nursing students is moderate, which highlights the need for targeted educational interventions and enhanced clinical experiences.