A situation of ethical dilemma that you have experienced in nursing practice

Full Answer Section

     

• If the patient remains adamant about receiving the high dosage, the nurse can document the conversation thoroughly and consult with a physician or ethics committee to explore all options and ensure all parties involved are aware of the risks and potential consequences.
• Ultimately, the nurse should strive to act in the best interests of the patient while respecting their autonomy and upholding ethical principles.

Scenario 2: A nurse observes a colleague engaging in unprofessional behavior, such as falsifying patient records or providing care that falls below acceptable standards. Potential Resolution:

• The nurse has a responsibility to report the observed behavior to the appropriate authorities, such as the supervisor, manager, or regulatory body. This can be done confidentially if available channels allow for it.
• The nurse should document the observed behavior objectively and accurately, including details like date, time, and specific actions witnessed.
• It is important to prioritize patient safety and uphold professional standards while following established reporting procedures and respecting due process.

Scenario 3: A nurse is caring for a patient with a contagious disease and witnesses another healthcare worker not following proper infection control protocols, putting themselves and other patients at risk. Potential Resolution:

• The nurse can politely but firmly address the issue with the healthcare worker directly, reminding them of the proper protocols and potential consequences of non-compliance.
• If the behavior persists, the nurse should escalate the issue to a supervisor or infection control officer to ensure appropriate action is taken and patient safety is maintained.
• The nurse should prioritize patient safety and public health while advocating for safe practices and respectful communication within the healthcare team.

Remember, these are just hypothetical examples. The specific approach to resolving ethical dilemmas in nursing practice will depend on the unique circumstances, applicable policies, and ethical frameworks guiding the nurse's decision-making.  

Sample Answer

 

Scenario 1:

A nurse is caring for a patient with terminal cancer who is requesting pain medication that the nurse believes is too high of a dosage and could lead to respiratory depression. The patient's family members are also urging the nurse to administer the medication, stating that the patient deserves to be comfortable in their final days.

Potential Resolution:

• The nurse can have an open and honest conversation with the patient and family, explaining the risks and benefits of the medication at the requested dosage. Explore alternative pain management options and seek clarification on the patient's true wishes and priorities.