Grounding Nephrology Social Worker Supervision in the Ethics-of-Care Meta-Framework

Abstract

Integrating ethics of care into nephrology social work supervision may counter the effects of managerialism in U.S. healthcare. In settings with high demands, limited resources, and conflicting goals, clinical supervision reduces workplace stress, burnout, and turnover. Ethics of care supports interdisciplinary collaboration and informal consultation, both crucial for ethical, patient-centered care. Embedding care theory in supervision promotes relational practice, prioritizes supervisee well-being, and challenges managerial values through humility, connection, and responsiveness. When grounded in care ethics, social work supervision counters the pressures of managerialism in medical practice and creates the potential for systemic change in the profession.