2. Key Terms
Ethics
Bioethics-term given to right vs wrong decisions or actions as
they relate to the scope of the medical field
Morals
Reflects the way a person interprets respect for other
individuals
Values
Understanding a patient’s values allows for the nurse to
understand the decisions and actions of the patient
Rights
A legally recognized entitlement (freedom)
3. Ethical Dilemma
This is a situation that requires an individual to
make a choice between two equally unfavorable
alternatives.
How do you make these choices?
By utilizing ethical principles, or guidelines to help you examine
the issue and decide on what action (or if an action) should be
taken.
4. Ethical Principles
Autonomy
Right to determine your own destiny
Beneficence
Duty to promote the good of others
Nonmaleficence
Do no harm to others
Justice
Fairness, equal treatment regardless of race, sex etc.
Veracity
One’s duty to be truthful
5. Model for Making Decisions vs. Nursing Process
Decision Making Model Nursing Process
Assess situation Assessment
Identify problem Diagnosis
Make a plan Identify outcome wanted
Implement plan Planning
Evaluate Implementation
Evaluation
6. Ethical Issues for Psychiatric Nursing
The Right to Refuse Least Restrictive
Medicine Doctrine
Established in 1992 Health care providers
The patient has the right must attempt to provide
to refuse medication “to treatment in the manner
the extent permitted by that least restricts the
law” and to be “informed freedom of clients.
of the medical Including seclusion
consequences of his Chemical intervention
actions” Mechanical Restraints
7. Legal Issues
Confidentiality
Privacy
PHI (protected health information)
Informed Consent- this may be challenged
Restraints and Seclusion
Commitment Issues
Nursing Liability
Malpractice/ Negligence/ Defamation of character/
assault/battery
8. How do I avoid Liability?
Respond to the patient, put their welfare first
Educate the patient
Comply with standard of care
Supervise care
Adhere to the nursing process
Document!!! DOCUMENT
Follow up
Develop a good relationship with client and family
