The code of ethics is the foundation of the ethical obligations nurse
The code of ethics is the foundation of the ethical obligations nurse
Student 1
The code of ethics is the foundation of the ethical obligations nurse should use to guide their practice. The code of ethics is made up of 9 provisions that the American Nurses Association created. This framework should guide nurses in their day-to-day practice. Ethical conflicts are expected to arise; the code of ethics should guide conduct and decision-making. Knowledge and understanding of the code of ethics are essential for all nurses to ensure professionalism and responsibility (Black, 2017). Sometimes with ethical decisions, there can be a gray area; however, it is essential to collaborate with other professionals (Black, 2017). Six ethical principles also guide nursing. These ethical principles include autonomy, beneficence, fidelity, justice, nonmaleficence, and veracity (Edge & Groves, 2019).
1. Autonomy is the patients’ right to decide the care they receive (Edge & Groves, 2019).
2. Beneficence is nurses’ obligation to seek good for the patient (Edge & Groves, 2019).
3. Fidelity involves honoring one’s commitments to the patient (Black, 2017).
4. Justice is about fairness by giving equal treatment and distribution services to all (Edge & Groves, 2019).
5. Nonmaleficence involves doing no harm to the patient (Edge & Groves, 2019).
6. Veracity means to tell the truth to the patient (Black, 2017).
Student 2
The code of ethics is foundational to nursing as it acts as a guide for nurses in the medical field as well as behaving as a social contract between nurses and the people they care for (Fowler, 2015). The code presents a list of nine provisions that encompasses what it means to live as a nurse. These provisions are not just random ideas made up, rather, it is a reflection of the key principles and fundamental values of nursing. In addition to values, it sets goals and obligations that each nurse should strive for. It essentially behaves as the framework all nurses should follow when caring for a patient. This is especially pertinent when a nurse is faced with an ethical dilemma. The code advocates for patients and their families. It aids the nurse in understanding ethical concerns and similar ethical dilemmas. In addition, with the code, boundaries are defined so that nurses can always work within their scope of practice. Yet, nurses should continue to work with other professions and promote interprofessional collaboration to ensure the best possible care if given. Overall, by adhering to the code of ethics and advocating for the client, a nurse can provide the best possible care and stay committed to the patient.
Student 3
How could recognition of spirituality and/or religious needs contribute to this call to cure, treat and comfort? Is there a value of this discussion or do you view it as a potential invasion of privacy? Make sure to cite your source(s).
The goal of palliative care seeks to relieve suffering, promote quality of life, and provide care and comfort for those experiencing serious illness (Richardson, 2014). This is what the author meant when she concludes that there is a call to cure sometimes, treat often, and comfort always (Richardson, 2014). Things may not always get better, in fact they often times may not. Treatment will happen, it can be for an abundance of reasons that may not even be medical. But at the end of the day, no matter what is going on, comfort will always be a priority and standard. Religion and belief can be, and are, a part of comfort. The recognition of the spirituality and religion can contribute to this idea by shaping each individual encounter. For example, personal beliefs can help shape communication between a physician and patient, it can dictate which treatment a patient choose to pursue, and it affects the way a patient chooses to express their illness (Richardson, 2014). A patient may find acceptance in their diagnosis based off of their beliefs, it goes as far as making a difference in coping mechanisms as well (Richardson, 2014). There is so much value in having these conversations! If a patient wishes not to discuss, then that is their personal opinion and it should be respected. It can be an invasion of privacy if anyone chooses to pry further. But, by getting to know and understand the patient, the care team can deliver a better and more personalized experience— once again, this includes comfort. As a future nurse, I have been taught to be culturally and spiritually competent. These conversations have much more benefit than they do potential harm. If a patient and their family is willing to share, it should be taken advantage of for the good of everyone involved.
