Choose a patient-care situation in which the RN should intervene and advocate for the patient. An example of such a situation might be when a patient has not been given complete informed consent.
Include the following in your paper:
Describe the clinical situation concisely and descriptively. It can be an actual situation or a hypothetical one.
Apply the to the specific clinical ethical situation that you choose. Address each section of the model in your paper.
Conclude with a discussion of nursing advocacy in the clinical setting and the nurses role as a patient advocate.
Advocating for Informed Consent: A Nurse's Ethical Responsibility
Clinical Situation
In a busy hospital setting, a patient, Mr. Smith, is scheduled for a surgical procedure to repair a fractured hip. The surgeon briefly explains the procedure to Mr. Smith, emphasizing the benefits of the surgery but fails to provide a comprehensive overview of the risks, alternatives, and potential complications. The patient, feeling overwhelmed and anxious, hesitantly consents to the surgery without fully understanding the implications of his decision.
Applying the Ethical Model
Assessment
- Patient Autonomy: Mr. Smith's right to make an informed decision about his healthcare is compromised due to inadequate information provided by the surgeon.
- Beneficence: Ensuring that Mr. Smith has all the necessary information to make an informed decision is essential to promote his well-being and safety.
- Non-Maleficence: Failing to provide complete informed consent may result in harm to the patient if unforeseen complications arise during the surgery.
Analysis
- Ethical Dilemma: The nurse faces a dilemma between respecting the surgeon's authority and advocating for Mr. Smith's right to informed consent.
- Legal Implications: Failure to ensure proper informed consent can lead to legal and ethical repercussions for the healthcare team.
- Patient-Centered Care: Advocating for Mr. Smith's autonomy and right to information aligns with patient-centered care principles.
Plan
- Education: The nurse should educate Mr. Smith about the importance of informed consent and facilitate a detailed discussion with the surgeon to address any questions or concerns.
- Communication: Engage in open communication with the healthcare team, including the surgeon, to ensure that all necessary information is provided to the patient.
- Documentation: Document the steps taken to advocate for Mr. Smith's informed consent in the patient's medical record.
Implementation
- Facilitate Discussion: Arrange a meeting between Mr. Smith and the surgeon to ensure that all aspects of the surgery, including risks, benefits, and alternatives, are clearly explained.
- Support Decision-Making: Provide emotional support to Mr. Smith throughout the informed consent process and empower him to ask questions and seek clarification.
- Collaborate: Work collaboratively with the healthcare team to address any barriers to obtaining informed consent and ensure that Mr. Smith's rights are respected.
Evaluation
- Assess Understanding: Confirm that Mr. Smith comprehensively understands the information provided and is comfortable proceeding with the surgery.
- Feedback: Seek feedback from Mr. Smith regarding his experience with the informed consent process and address any additional concerns or questions.
- Follow-Up: Follow up with Mr. Smith post-surgery to ensure that he is satisfied with the care received and address any postoperative issues promptly.
Nursing Advocacy and Patient Advocacy
Nursing advocacy in the clinical setting encompasses a commitment to promoting patient autonomy, dignity, and safety. As patient advocates, nurses play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive comprehensive information, have their concerns addressed, and are actively involved in decision-making processes regarding their care. Advocacy involves speaking up for patients' rights, facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers, and safeguarding patients' well-being throughout their healthcare journey.
In conclusion,
advocating for informed consent is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice that aligns with ethical principles and patient-centered care. By actively engaging in advocacy efforts, nurses can empower patients like Mr. Smith to make informed decisions about their healthcare, thereby promoting autonomy, transparency, and trust within the healthcare system.
By applying an ethical model to a specific clinical scenario and discussing nursing advocacy in patient care settings, this paper highlights the critical role nurses play in safeguarding patient rights and promoting ethical healthcare practices.