Ethical Dilemmas for LPNs
Ethical challenges are something that every nurse will eventually encounter. How these challenges are managed can significantly impact the outcome of various situations. For instance, if a problem arises, and the nurse is busy and “doesn’t really have time to deal with it at the moment,” it can lead to numerous issues such as legal troubles, nurse burnout resulting in leaving the profession, subpar patient care outcomes, and/or disciplinary action. Ethics is a critical concern that every nurse should familiarize themselves with. Below, you will discover several common ethical issues/dilemmas that nurses frequently face, along with some approaches to address them. As a beneficial practice, nurses should explore the Code of Ethics established by the American Nurses Association (ANA). The four most prevalent healthcare ethics topics are autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice.
Involvement of Family
Instances may arise where the family becomes involved and attempts to make decisions for a patient perfectly capable of making decisions for themselves. They might receive a severe medical diagnosis, and upon informing the family, they may request not to disclose the information to the patient to avoid upsetting them. Regardless of the difficulty, any patient of age has the right to be informed about every decision concerning their health and relevant information, as long as they choose to be informed. The family can be as persuasive as they want, but it is the nurse’s responsibility to communicate with the patient. For example, the treatment for certain diseases might be too harsh on the patient, leading them to refuse the treatment and opt for comfort in their final days.
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The family may not always agree, but initially, the decision lies with the patient. The three ethical principles involved here are autonomy, fidelity, and non-maleficence. Regarding autonomy, anyone of age and legally able to make their own decisions has the right to know about their medical conditions. In terms of fidelity, as a nurse, building a rapport with the patient is crucial. Rapport establishes a relationship based on trust and loyalty, which is essential for preventing disruptions. A good nurse should always tell the truth and aim to prevent harm when possible. Informing a mentally sound patient about their medical conditions is always necessary, regardless of the preferences of their family or friends.
Consent for Treatment
Informed consent for treatment is primarily explained by the physician. The nurse should never explain a surgery, risks, or complications before the provider. This is to avoid misinformation or giving false details. However, if the patient still feels uneasy or has questions after the physician’s explanation, the nurse can try to provide additional information. Some individuals may feel scared to ask the physician questions or admit if they don’t fully understand, turning to the nurse for clarification. Treatment, regardless of the type, can be stressful for patients and their families. Be as informative as possible, and if you have any doubts, consult a healthcare team member or discuss it with the physician. It is the patient’s right to know and fully comprehend the treatment before undergoing it.
Peers’ Failures
In nursing school, students are taught to report any colleague or co-worker who is doing anything harmful to the patient. The hierarchy of reporting is emphasized. This is crucial because, despite personal relationships, a patient’s life could be at risk. Nurses may hesitate to report out of fear that the person might be fired, affecting the nursing staff. The ethics involved here are fidelity and non-maleficence. Regardless of the consequences for the person or the colleagues as a whole, the patient’s health and safety always take precedence. If confronting the individual directly feels more comfortable, it can be attempted, but it may not always be the wisest choice. Confronting the individual can lead to workplace drama, which is unprofessional. Following the established reporting chain within the company ensures patient safety and security. Nurses are the voice for patients who may be unaware of what is happening; it’s essential to use that voice. These are just a few examples of the ethical challenges nurses frequently encounter, but numerous scenarios exist. Viewing the patient as a family member or friend can guide decision-making. Remember your scope of practice but keep ethics at the forefront of your mind, being the voice that patients desperately need.
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