Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice: A Case Analysis and Self-Care Strategies

Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Clinical Practice: A Case Analysis and Self-Care Strategies

INSTRUCTIONS

2pages

APA

3 SOURCES

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this task is to explore how nursing ethics, self-advocacy, and professional accountability can be applied in clinical practice. Using the provided case scenario, you will be required to think about how ethical concepts can be used to make clinical decisions and explore the differences in personal and professional beliefs. You will develop personalized stress management plans that rely on the use of adaptive coping strategies to ensure personal health and well-being.

SCENARIO

You have been working as a nurse in the adult oncology unit for the past year. You have developed a close relationship with many of your patients, but Mr. Newcomb has a special place in your heart. He has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and has undergone aggressive chemotherapy. Each day his wife has come to the unit to be with her husband. They have been married for over 40 years and share a deep love.

Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb have made the decision to no longer continue with treatment and have decided that hospice care is needed. Over the past few days, you have watched Mr. Newcomb’s health decline, and you can tell from your experience that he does not have much time left to live. Mr. Newcomb has been very open about discussing his death, and you have had the opportunity to learn about his life and the legacy he will leave behind.

While you are completing your rounds, you stop in Mr. Newcomb’s room to see how he is doing. You ask, “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Mr. Newcomb has rarely asked for anything, but today he has one request. Mr. Newcomb states, “Before I die, I would like to see my mistress one more time. Mrs. Newcomb is always here. Do you think you could tell her that I will be busy for a few hours tomorrow so I can make arrangements to see my mistress one more time?”

 

QUESTIONS

A.  Summarize how the principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice apply to the scenario by doing the following:

1.  Describe how you would respond to Mr. Newcomb’s request.
2.  Evaluate how you applied the principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice to the scenario.
3.  Examine how personal beliefs and values influenced your response to the scenario.
4.  Describe threestrategies to promote self-care.
5.  Acknowledge sources, using in-text citations and references, for content that is quoted, paraphrased, or summarized.

 

1.  Demonstrate professional communication in the content and presentation of your submission.

 

Introduction

In the realm of nursing ethics, self-advocacy, and professional accountability, the application of ethical principles becomes paramount in navigating complex clinical scenarios. This exploration will delve into a case scenario involving Mr. Newcomb, a terminally ill patient, and the nuanced ethical considerations surrounding his request. Additionally, the discussion will address the impact of personal beliefs on decision-making and propose stress management strategies for the nurse in this emotionally challenging context.

Scenario Analysis

1. Response to Mr. Newcomb’s Request In responding to Mr. Newcomb’s request to see his mistress, the nurse must delicately balance ethical principles. Acknowledging the patient’s autonomy is crucial, respecting his wishes within the bounds of beneficence and non-maleficence. A thoughtful, compassionate approach is necessary to honor Mr. Newcomb’s autonomy while considering the potential emotional impact on Mrs. Newcomb.

2. Application of Ethical Principles

• Beneficence: Striving to promote well-being, the nurse may facilitate open communication between Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb, ensuring that their decisions align with their values and bring comfort to the patient.
• Non-maleficence: The nurse should assess the potential harm to Mrs. Newcomb’s emotional well-being and familial relationships, aiming to minimize any adverse effects.
• Autonomy: Respecting Mr. Newcomb’s autonomy involves acknowledging his wishes and facilitating communication, allowing him to express his desires openly.
• Justice: Ensuring fairness in the distribution of care involves considering the emotional needs of all involved parties.

3. Influence of Personal Beliefs Personal beliefs and values play a significant role in navigating ethical dilemmas. In this scenario, the nurse’s beliefs about transparency, honesty, and the importance of preserving familial bonds may shape the approach to Mr. Newcomb’s request. Balancing personal values with professional obligations requires a reflective and patient-centered perspective.

4. Strategies for Self-Care

• Reflective Practice: Engaging in regular self-reflection allows the nurse to process emotionally charged situations, fostering resilience.
• Supervision and Support: Seeking guidance from peers, mentors, or supervisors provides an outlet for discussing challenging cases and receiving emotional support.
• Healthy Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining boundaries in patient interactions ensures that the nurse can empathize without absorbing excessive emotional burden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating ethical complexities in clinical practice demands a delicate integration of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. Personal beliefs inevitably shape responses to scenarios, necessitating self-awareness and reflection. Furthermore, prioritizing self-care through thoughtful strategies is imperative for nurses facing emotionally challenging situations, ensuring sustained well-being and professional effectiveness.

References [Include citations here]