INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this task is to explore how nursing ethics, self-advocacy, and professional accountability can be applied in clinical practice. Using the provided case scenario, you will be required to think about how ethical concepts can be used to make clinical decisions and explore the differences in personal and professional beliefs. You will develop personalized stress management plans that rely on the use of adaptive coping strategies to ensure personal health and well-being.
SCENARIO
You have been working as a nurse in the adult oncology unit for the past year. You have developed a close relationship with many of your patients, but Mr. Newcomb has a special place in your heart. He has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and has undergone aggressive chemotherapy. Each day his wife come to the unit to be with her husband. They have been married for over 40 years and share a deep love.
Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb have made the decision to no longer continue with treatment and have decided that hospice care is needed. Over the past few days, you have watched Mr. Newcomb’s health decline, and you can tell from your experience that he does not have much time left to live. Mr. Newcomb has been very open about discussing his death, and you have had the opportunity to learn about his life and the legacy he will leave behind.
While you are completing your rounds, you stop in Mr. Newcomb’s room to see how he is doing. You ask, “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Mr. Newcomb has rarely asked for anything, but today he has one request. Mr. Newcomb states, “Before I die, I would like to see my mistress one more time. Mrs. Newcomb is always here. Do you think you could tell her that I will be busy for a few hours tomorrow so I can make arrangements to see my mistress one more time?”
Reflect on the following questions before you begin working on this task:
??What would you do in this scenario?
??How can your knowledge of ethical principles be utilized to determine your response to Mr. Newcomb?
??How would this affect you as a nurse and direct provider of care for Mr. Newcomb?
How to solve
Summarize beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice apply to the scenario
In this scenario, as a nurse and direct provider of care for Mr. Newcomb, it is important to approach the situation with professionalism and ethical considerations. The request made by Mr. Newcomb raises several ethical dilemmas, including the potential conflict between personal beliefs and professional obligations.
In this situation, it is crucial to prioritize patient autonomy and respect for Mr. Newcomb’s wishes. However, it is also essential to consider the potential harm that may be caused by fulfilling his request. Engaging in deception by informing Mrs. Newcomb that her husband will be busy could violate principles of honesty and integrity.
One possible approach to this scenario would be to have an open and honest conversation with Mr. Newcomb. I would acknowledge his request and express empathy for his desire to see his mistress. However, I would also explain the potential consequences and ethical concerns associated with deceiving his wife. By discussing these concerns with him, it may be possible to find alternative ways to fulfill his wish that do not compromise the principles of honesty and integrity.
As a nurse, encountering such moral dilemmas is not uncommon. It is crucial to remember that our primary responsibility is to provide safe, compassionate, and ethical care to our patients. This situation may be emotionally challenging, as the close relationship with Mr. Newcomb can influence personal feelings and beliefs. However, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries and prioritize the best interests of the patient.
In conclusion, when faced with this scenario, it is important to consider ethical principles such as autonomy, honesty, and integrity. Balancing the patient’s wishes with ethical obligations may require open communication and exploration of alternative solutions. As a nurse, it is crucial to uphold professional values and provide compassionate care while navigating complex ethical dilemmas.
