A HISTORY OF NURSING ETHICS
Sample Solution
Emotional Focus
Nurse Gloria is likely experiencing a conflict between duty and compassion. On one hand, she has a professional duty to follow the physician's order and obtain the patient's signature. On the other hand, her compassion for the patient, who seems confused and possibly unable to comprehend the consent form, is pulling her in the opposite direction. She may also feel pressure from the demands of a busy schedule, which could add to her emotional stress.
Associated Ethical Principles
Several ethical principles are at play in this scenario:
- Autonomy: The patient has the right to self-determination and to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
- Beneficence: The nurse has a duty to act in the best interest of the patient.
- Non-maleficence: The nurse has a duty to avoid harming the patient.
- Justice: The patient has a right to fair and equitable treatment.
Implications of the Nurse's Actions
The nurse's actions will have significant implications for the patient. If she obtains the patient's signature without ensuring his understanding, she may be violating his autonomy and putting him at risk of harm. This could lead to legal and ethical consequences for both the nurse and the healthcare facility. Additionally, it could erode the patient's trust in the healthcare system.
On the other hand, delaying the procedure to involve the physician could lead to disruptions in the clinic's schedule and potentially inconvenience the patient. However, it would prioritize the patient's right to informed consent and demonstrate respect for his autonomy.
My Actions:
As a nurse in this situation, I would prioritize the patient's right to informed consent. I would respectfully explain to the patient that I believe he is confused about the consent form and that I want to ensure he fully understands the procedure before signing. I would then request the physician to return and personally explain the procedure to the patient.
If the physician is unable to return promptly, I would document the situation in the patient's chart, including the patient's apparent confusion and my request for clarification. I would also explore alternative methods to ensure the patient's understanding, such as using simpler language or providing additional written materials.
Ultimately, my goal would be to protect the patient's rights and ensure that he makes an informed decision about his care.