Ethical dilemmas in nursing are of utmost importance, as they often arise from the tension between adhering to core ethical principles and the practical realities of healthcare delivery. These dilemmas require nurses to navigate complex situations where competing ethical considerations pull them in different directions.
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive health, drug abuse, or mental health; nurses face unique ethical challenges. Competent adolescents legally have the right to consent to certain medical treatments and to have their health information kept confidential, even from their parents.
For example, a 16-year-old seeks treatment for a sexually transmitted infection without parental knowledge. The nurse must uphold the adolescent's right to autonomy and confidential care while navigating legal and ethical standards that may necessitate parental involvement. Nurses play a critical role in educating minors about treatment options and preventive measures, ensuring they understand the implications of their health choices. The decision to involve parents should be carefully considered, considering the minor's maturity, the seriousness of the medical issue, and specific state laws, which usually support the minor's right to confidential healthcare in such cases. This delicate balance requires a thoughtful approach to protect the health and rights of the young patient.
Another ethical challenge arises with the topic of vaccination. Nurses play a crucial role in advocating public health, particularly regarding promoting the significance of immunizations. However, when parents refuse to vaccinate their children based on personal beliefs, nurses may find themselves at a crossroads between advocating for their child's health and respecting the parent's right to make healthcare decisions for their child. For instance, a nurse will educate parents on the risks and benefits of vaccination. However, the ultimate decision rests with the parents/ legal guardian of the child, regardless of the nurse's personal opinion, professional judgment, and public health guidelines.
These examples show the ethical challenges nurses may face. Nurses must use critical thinking, empathy, and ethical reasoning to respect patient autonomy, promote well-being, and uphold professional standards. Nursing ethics involves balancing these interests, requiring a profound grasp of ethical principles and their thoughtful application. Nurses benefit from ongoing ethical education and discussions with peers and mentors to enhance their decision-making skills and support their patients and communities.
