- Give an example of an ethical dilemma that you think you will encounter when you start working as a nurse.
- How are you going to prepare yourself as a nurse in dealing with these dilemmas?
As a nurse, there are numerous ethical dilemmas that one may encounter in the workplace. One such ethical dilemma that I anticipate encountering as a nurse is related to end-of-life care. The decision to withhold or withdraw treatment from a terminally ill patient, particularly if the patient is unable to communicate their wishes, can be a difficult ethical decision to make. This is particularly true if there are conflicting views among family members, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders involved in the patient’s care.
In such a situation, it is essential to consider the patient’s autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Autonomy refers to the patient’s right to make decisions about their care, while beneficence refers to the obligation of healthcare providers to act in the patient’s best interest. Non-maleficence refers to the obligation to avoid causing harm, while justice refers to the fair and equitable distribution of resources.
To prepare myself to deal with such ethical dilemmas, I plan to educate myself on ethical principles and theories, including ethical decision-making models. I will also seek guidance and mentorship from experienced nurses, nurse managers, and ethicists. Furthermore, I will participate in continuing education programs and attend conferences on ethics in nursing to stay current on best practices.
Additionally, I will work to develop effective communication skills and build relationships with patients and their families. This will help me to better understand their values, beliefs, and preferences and enable me to provide care that is consistent with their wishes. I will also collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure that ethical decisions are made in a collaborative and transparent manner, with input from all stakeholders.
It is also important to note that ethical dilemmas may arise at any time, and it is not always possible to prepare for every possible scenario. In such situations, I will consult with my colleagues and seek guidance from ethics committees or other resources available to me.
In conclusion, as a nurse, I anticipate encountering various ethical dilemmas, including end-of-life care decisions. To prepare myself to deal with these dilemmas, I will educate myself on ethical principles and theories, seek mentorship and guidance, participate in continuing education programs, and develop effective communication skills. Additionally, I will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and consult with colleagues and ethics committees as needed. By taking these steps, I will be better equipped to navigate the complex ethical challenges that come with providing quality nursing care.