Module 3 Flashcards
What is ethics?
The study of right and wrong , good and evil as they relate to human conduct and flourishing.
What are the two theories of ethics?
Utilitarianism: the rightness of wrongness depends on the consequences of the action
- actions are right when they promote the greater good and wrong when they do not ( USEFULNESS)
Deontology: An action is right or wrong is based on a rule independent of it’s consequences
What are the two popular approaches to doing ethics?
Principle- based approach: Based on four principles that guide the behavior of health care professionals towards patients and families.
- Autonomy- respect the rights of others
- Nomalifeince - avoid causing harm
- Beneficence- what best benefits the patient
- justice- Give each his or her due; act fairly
Care based approach: Based on care being the foundation for nursing’s ethical obligation. How you choose to be and act each time you encounter a patient is of ethical significance.
- Caring relationship
- promotion of dignity and respect
- Attention to the particulars
- include kindness, attentiveness, empathy, compassion and reliability
How to resolve ethical conflict?
- Assess the situation - Gather data
- Diagnose- identify the problem
- Plan- Identify options and make a decision
- Implement and evaluate the decision
What is autonomy?
The respect and rights of patients to make health care decisions.
Patient has the right to refuse medication, treatment, surgery regardless of the benefit.
What is nonmaleficence ? Example?
To avoid causing harm
- seek not to inflict harm but to prevent the risk of harm whenever possible
Example: ensuring a safe environment, putting up side rails, withholding medication due to adverse reaction.
What is Beneficence? Example?
Benefits the patient
- committed to actively promoting the well being of your patient
- benefits may not all be viewed the same way
Example: assisting pt with tasks they are unable to do, providing medications at a timely manner.
What is justice? Example?
To provide care and share resources equally.
Example- Lack of healthcare insurance and location may play a factor in limitation
What is fidelity?
Keep promises
- Be faithful to the promise you made to be competent and use it to benefit patients
- Never abandon a patient entrusted to your care with providing for patient needs.
Example of virtues of a nurse?
Competence
Practical wisdom
Courage
Humility
Integrity
What is the purpose of the ANA Code of Ethics?
A statement of the ethical obligation and duties of every person who enters the nursing profession.
ANA Code of Ethics
Nurse practices with compassion and respect the worth of each person
Nurses primary commitment is to the patient
Nurse advocates for and protects the rights of the patient
Nurse has accountability and responsibility to make decisions and take action consistent witth providing optimal care
Nurse owes the same duties to self as to others
What is moral distress?
This occurs when you know the right thing to do but either personal or institutional factors make it difficult to follow the correct course of action
