Fundamentals of Nursing Q 424
In most ethical dilemmas, the solution to the dilemma requires negotiation among members of the health care team. The nurse’s point of view is valuable because:
A. Nurses have a legal license that encourages their presence during ethical discussions.
B. The principle of autonomy guides all participants to respect their own self-worth.
C. Nurses develop a relationship with the client that is unique among all professional health care providers.
D. The nurse’s code of ethics recommends that a nurse be present at any ethical discussion about client care.
Correct Answer: C. Nurses develop a relationship to the client that is unique among all professional health care providers
When ethical dilemmas arise, the nurse’s point of view is unique and critical. The nurse usually interacts with clients over longer time intervals than do other disciples. It is important to advocate for patient care, patient rights, and ethical consideration of practice. Ethics inclusion should begin in nursing school and continue as long as the nurse is practicing.
Option A: Nurses have a responsibility to themselves, their profession, and their patients to maintain the highest ethical principles. Many organizations have ethics boards in place to review ethical concerns. Nurses at all levels of practice should be involved in ethics reviews in their targeted specialty area.
Option B: Each patient has the right to make their own decisions based on their own beliefs and values. This is known as autonomy. A patient’s need for autonomy may conflict with care guidelines or suggestions that nurses or other healthcare workers believe is best. A person has a right to refuse medications, treatment, surgery, or other medical interventions regardless of what benefit may come from it.
Option D: Ethical dilemmas arise as nurses care for patients. These dilemmas may, at times, conflict with the Code of Ethics or with the nurse’s ethical values. Nurses are advocates for patients and must find a balance while delivering patient care.