This reflective essay examines the ethical and legal complexities encountered by a nursing student during a clinical placement. The student uses Driscoll's reflective model to analyze a situation involving a needle-stick injury and the ethical implications of a registered nurse's actions. The essay explores key ethical principles such as self-determination, competence, confidentiality, beneficence, non-maleficence, fairness, and honesty. It highlights the violation of ethical codes by the registered nurse and the potential risks of the situation. The student reflects on the experience, considering the importance of ethical awareness, self-reflection, and the need for adherence to nursing ethics in practice. The essay emphasizes the vulnerability of students and patients and the importance of ethical conduct in the healthcare setting. References to relevant literature are included to support the analysis.