The last nursing ethics class was today. There is much debate on patients autonomy and a nurses duty in different situations. A continuous power struggle where it is hard to draw the lines. When is it OK to override the patients wishes? I believe that a patient has every right to decline medicine or procedures to better their health. If their life is being jeopardized then remedies should be suggested and pushed. To force someone to bend to another persons opinion, however truthful it might be, is unjust. Whatever the legitimacy of the case it is the persons inherent right to decide what is being done/given to their body. It is understandable that the nurse wants the best of health for her patient but their is only so much that he/she can respectably do.
If the patient is incoherent or mentally unstable I would suggest that the doctor, nurse and closest family members should be consulted to come to a conclusion. This way a medical and personal level can mediate together.
All patients should be told of their prognosis. They should not be "protected"from the truth. These sort of judgments could lead to very serious law suits.
Bottom line they have the right to know and the right to decide. Basic rights.
And thank you John for letting me take your class and dropping me off in the city center. Donal was on the radio with 5 others debating pro or against euthanasia.
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1 comment:
Laine,
I wonder what nurses say about these ethical issues? I am sure many don't see thier own opinions as important as the patient desires. Did you get into power of attorney, and family decisions in these discussions?
Ryan
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