Ethical & Legal Issues in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing

Question 1

Ethical Theories

Answer 1

• Utilitarianism – most good for most people (end result)
• Kantianism – motivation •Religion based ethics
• Natural law
• Ethical egoism

Question 2

Ethical Dilemmas

Answer 2

• Choice
• Conflict
• Emotion

Question 3

Ethical Principles

Answer 3

• Autonomy
• Beneficence
• Nonmalfesence
• Justice
• Veracity

Question 4

A Model for Making Ethical Descisions

Answer 4

Assess Diagnose/identify problem
Plan

• benefits & consequences of each alternative?
• ethical principles?
• select alternative

Implement
Evaluate

Question 5

Important Rights

Answer 5

• Right to refuse medication.
• Right to least-restrictive treatment alternative.
• Right to confidentiality & privacy.
• Right to informed consent.
• Right to freedom from false imprisonment

Question 6

Issues

Answer 6

• Restraints
• Seclusion
• Voluntary or
• Involuntary Admission
• breach of confidentiality
• defamation of character
• libel
• slander
• assault
• battery

Question 8

Best Practices

Answer 8

• respond
• educate
• comply with standard of care
• supervise care
• adhere to nursing process
• document follow-up