Scenario
A child was brought into the office for hallucinations and was diagnosed with schizophrenia. The physician prescribed psychiatric medications as part of the treatment plan. The parents are members of the Church of Scientology and declined psychiatric medications based on their beliefs.
Initial Post
In your initial post address the following prompts and/or questions.
Explain how a nurse's bias could impact the care of this client.
Discuss the ethical issues that exist in this scenario.
Explain how the treatment plan could be modified to include culturally and spiritually appropriate care for this client.
Full Answer Section
Ethical Issues
This scenario presents several ethical dilemmas:
- Autonomy vs. Beneficence: The parents have the right to make decisions about their child's care, but the nurse has a duty to promote the child's well-being.
- Cultural Competence: The nurse must balance their professional obligations with the family's cultural and religious beliefs.
- Informed Consent: The parents must be provided with clear and accurate information about the risks and benefits of psychiatric medication, as well as alternative treatment options.
Modifying the Treatment Plan
To provide culturally and spiritually appropriate care, the treatment plan could be modified to include:
- Alternative Therapies: Exploring complementary or alternative therapies that align with the family's beliefs, such as meditation, yoga, or acupuncture.
- Spiritual Counseling: Referring the family to a spiritual counselor or leader who can provide support and guidance.
- Family Therapy: Involving the entire family in therapy to address the impact of the child's diagnosis and develop coping strategies.
- Education: Providing the family with information about schizophrenia and its treatment options, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the treatment plan.
It is essential to approach this situation with empathy, respect, and a willingness to collaborate with the family to develop a treatment plan that meets their unique needs and values. By understanding and addressing the cultural and spiritual dimensions of the client's care, the nurse can help to improve the overall outcome.