Ethical Decision Making in Nursing Practice

Question 1

What are the 3 types of moral/ethical problems?

Answer 1

1) ethical dilemma
2) moral uncertainty
3) moral distress

Question 2

Define moral/ethical dilemma

Answer 2

-when the best course of action is unclear
-strong moral reason to support each position
-have to choose what is the most right and least wrong

Question 3

Define moral uncertainty

Answer 3

-sense moral problem but not sure of morally correct action to take
-not sure what moral value/principle to apply
-not able to define actual problem
-feeling of concern
-“gut feeling”

Question 4

Define moral distress

Answer 4

-when faced with moral problems that have clear solutions but unable to act upon them
-right action is clear
-nurses feel personally responsible
-lead to devastating outcomes: quit, burnout, lose ability to care

Question 5

Define unrelieved moral outrage

Answer 5

-nurses feel powerless

Question 6

Define moral residue

Answer 6

-feelings of guilt, inadequacy or powerlessness

Question 7

Define moral disengagement

Answer 7

nurses feel disengaged

Question 8

Define moral courage

Answer 8

stand up for beliefs in face of opposition/adversity