Pharmacology

Full Answer Section

• Scenario: A patient admits to child abuse at home. The nurse is obligated to report suspected abuse but also understands the importance of patient confidentiality.

3. Allocation of Resources:

• Scenario: The hospital is understaffed and there are not enough nurses to provide adequate care for all patients. The nurse has to decide how to prioritize care and may feel pressure to compromise on quality.

4. Whistle-Blowing vs. Job Security:

• Scenario: A nurse witnesses a colleague providing substandard care. Reporting this could help patients but might also jeopardize the nurse's job security or create a hostile work environment.

5. Futile Care vs. Patient Advocacy:

• Scenario: A patient is undergoing extensive treatment with minimal chance of recovery. The nurse may question the ethics of continuing treatment but also feels obligated to advocate for the patient's wishes.

• Professional Codes of Ethics: These codes provide guidance on ethical decision-making within the nursing profession.
• Patient Rights: Respecting patient autonomy, confidentiality, and well-being is paramount.
• Available Resources: Limited resources may force difficult choices in prioritizing care.
• Benefits and Risks: Weighing the potential consequences of each action helps determine the most ethical course.

• Gather Information: Gather all relevant facts before making a decision.
• Consult with Colleagues: Discussing the situation with trusted colleagues can provide different perspectives and support.
• Seek Guidance: Utilize resources from professional organizations or ethics committees within the healthcare facility.
• Document Everything: Maintain clear documentation of the situation, actions taken, and reasoning behind decisions.

Sample Answer

Nurses face ethical dilemmas on a regular basis, often due to conflicting priorities and limited resources. Here are a few common examples:

1. Patient Autonomy vs. Patient Safety:

• Scenario: A patient with a terminal illness refuses life-saving treatment. The nurse respects the patient's right to autonomy (make their own decisions) but also worries about the patient's well-being.