(W9/10) Ethical Principles in Palliative Care

Question 1

Common ethical issues nurses face in pall settings

Answer 1

• Disclosure of disease to px or family
• Treatment to alleviate symptoms
• EOL care decisions
• Withholding artificial hydration/nutrition

Question 2

What are the 4 ethical principles?

Answer 2

1) Autonomy
2) Beneficence
3) Nonmaleficence
4) Justice

Question 3

IMPT:
What are the 5 Statutory Principles of the Mental Capacity Act?

Answer 3

1) Assume person has the capacity unless proven otherwise

2) Take all practicable steps to help a person make their own decision

3) A person has the right to make an unwise decision

4) Always act in the person’s best interest

5) Choose the less restrictive option

Question 4

What is the definition of artificial nutrition and hydration?

Answer 4

• Nut/hyd support of invasive nature
• Requires the placement of a tube into the alimentary tract or parenterally via IV or subcut

Question 5

What are the advantages and disadvantages of artificial hydration?

Answer 5

• Useful for px with intestinal obstruction or delirium secondary to opioid toxicity
• Fluid overload
• Respiratory secretions
• Peripheral edema
• Invasive
• Higher risk of infx