Define and apply with clinical examples the ethical theories of Utilitarianism and
Deontology.
discuss The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses
and how it guide the professional nursing practice.
Ethical Principles – Autonomy, Beneficence and Nonmaleficence, Veracity
• Discuss each ethical principle and
• give a clinical example of how you have seen each principle used in your most recent
clinical setting or your place of employment.
Sample Answer
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Define and apply with clinical examples the ethical theories of Utilitarianism and
Deontology.
discuss The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses
and how it guide the professional nursing practice.
Ethical Principles – Autonomy, Beneficence and Nonmaleficence, Veracity
• Discuss each ethical principle and
• give a clinical example of how you have seen each principle used in your most recent
clinical setting or your place of employment.
That's a great request covering foundational ethical theories, key ethical principles, and the professional code for nursing.
⚖️ Ethical Theories: Utilitarianism and Deontology
1. Utilitarianism
Definition: Utilitarianism, a form of consequentialism, holds that the morally right action is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people. The focus is on the outcomes or consequences of an action, not the action itself.
An action is judged right if it maximizes overall happiness, utility, or well-being and minimizes suffering.
Clinical Example: In a mass casualty incident (MCI), a triage nurse must decide which patients receive immediate treatment (and scarce resources) and which ones can wait.
Application: A utilitarian approach dictates that the nurse should prioritize treating the patients with the best chance of survival who require the fewest resources, thereby saving the maximum number of lives overall, even if it means withholding care from a severely injured patient who might not survive despite extensive intervention.
Deontology
Definition: Deontology, derived from the Greek word deon (duty), is an ethical framework that judges the morality of an action based on whether the action itself adheres to a set of rules or duties. The focus is on the intrinsic rightness or wrongness of the act, independent of its consequences.
Actions are performed out of duty or obligation, such as telling the truth, keeping promises, or respecting individual rights.
Clinical Example: A patient with a terminal illness refuses a life-saving but painful procedure.
Application: A deontological perspective emphasizes the nurse's duty to respect the patient's autonomy and their inherent right to self-determination, even if the nurse believes the consequence (the patient's death) is negative. The duty to respect autonomy is an unconditional moral rule.
📋 The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses
The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses is the non-negotiable ethical standard for the profession. It provides a comprehensive framework that outlines the ethical obligations and duties of every nurse in all roles and settings.
How the Code Guides Professional Nursing Practice:
Establishes Ethical Standards: It defines the values, duties, and professional ideals that nursing is built upon, ensuring nurses have a moral compass for decision-making.
Affirms Commitment to the Patient: The code places the patient and their interests as the nurse's primary commitment, demanding respect for inherent dignity, worth, and human rights.
Addresses Conflicts: It provides guidelines for handling ethical dilemmas, such as those involving patient rights, institutional policies, impaired practice, or resource allocation, by prioritizing the patient's well-being and advocating for safe care environments.
Guides Self-Care and Professional Integrity: It discusses the nurse's responsibility to themselves, including the duty to maintain competence, foster a safe practice environment, and preserve moral integrity and wholeness of character.
Shapes Policy and Law: It influences healthcare policy, regulations, and legislation, ensuring that the professional nursing voice is heard and that ethical principles are embedded in the structure of the healthcare system.