Nursing Ethics
Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing
Ethical dilemmas occur when there is a conflict between two or more ethical principles, requiring structured moral reasoning.
Decision Framework
- Gather all relevant facts about the clinical situation.
- Identify the ethical principles in conflict.
- Consult the facility ethics committee or chaplaincy.
- Evaluate the decision's impact on patient outcomes.
Common Scenarios
- Disagreement between family members and patient preferences.
- Withdrawing life support in terminal conditions.
- Use of physical or chemical restraints.
- Providing futile treatments in end-stage disease.
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