Ethical Principles in Nursing Practice Essay Assignment Paper

In the areas of clinical practice, healthcare professionals encounter dilemmas related to treatment options and patient care. Ethical principles have been established that act as guidelines on moral choices for physicians when they encounter such dilemmas. The ethical principles applicable in nursing practice include autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. In addition, the ethics of informed consent and confidentiality also springs from the principle of autonomy. This paper identifies and discuss the principle of confidentiality, nonmaleficence, and autonomy and how to address them in future work environments. Ethical Principles in Nursing Practice Essay Assignment Paper

Definition of Ethical Principles

The ethical principle of autonomy involves respecting and supporting patient decisions and moral choices on their treatment option. However, this principle only applies to patients who can act autonomously. Infants, children, and mentally incapacitated adult patient have their caregivers or proxies that make decisions on their behalf (Varkey 2020). The principle of nonmaleficence focuses on the physician’s obligation not to cause any harm to the patient.  According to Varkey (2020), these principles identify several moral rules including not killing, not causing pain or suffering, and not depriving others of the goods of life. The principle of confidentiality provides an obligation for physicians to avoid disclosing patient information given by patients to other parties unless a patient gives authorization. However, an exception is made for cases where physicians consult other members and share patient information to improve patient health outcomes. As a registered nurse, I have to always refer to the principles when making decisions related to patient care.

ORDER  HERE A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER HERE

Addressing Ethical Principles in Future Practice

In future work environments, it is important to always essential to apply ethical principles as the basis for decision-making. The principle of autonomy can be addressed by respecting and supporting patient decisions regarding their treatment options. Davis & Charlotte (2018) assert that providing adequate information to patients on potential risks, benefits, and complications of a treatment option empowers the patient to make informed decisions. A treatment plan is then formulated in compliance with the patient’s choice. For example, in a case where a patient has been diagnosed with moderate diabetes, various treatment options are presented, and their potential risks, benefits, and complications. With adequate information, a patient can decide if they wish to maintain their new diagnosis through medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of them. Every healthcare professional is mandated to respect the autonomous decision of the patient. Ethical Principles in Nursing Practice Essay Assignment Paper

In my future work environment, I can also address the principle of nonmaleficence by identifying and implementing interventions that cause no harm to patients and promote beneficial health outcomes. When faced with any dilemma, applying the principle of nonmaleficence leads to the implementation of interventions that are beneficial to a patient and promote patient welfare (Davis & Charlotte 2018). For example, in a case where a patient talks about a homicidal ideation plan, while observing the obligation of privacy and confidentiality of patient information is important, safeguarding the patient is a priority rather than ensuring information privacy.

Lastly, it is also important that I observe the ethical principle of confidentiality. This is achieved through protecting patient information in various contexts. In future practice, I must comply with the HIPPA regulations that address the privacy of patient information. For example, when a patient’s relative requests access to patient information, I must obtain the patient’s consent and obtain a consent form signed by the patient authorizing access to information by a third party. In addition, unless in cases where sharing information is with other professionals to promote patient health outcomes, I am mandated to always maintain confidentiality of patient information. Ethical Principles in Nursing Practice Essay Assignment Paper

References

Davis, & Charlotte. (2018). Ethical decision making. Nursing Made Incredibly Easy!, 16(2), 4–5. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.nme.0000529954.89032.f2

Varkey, B. (2020). Principles of clinical ethics and their application to practice. Medical Principles and Practice, 30(1), 17–28. https://doi.org/10.1159/000509119

1. Choose 3 of the 6 ethical principles listed below and define the 3.

2. Describe how you will address the 3 principles you chose to define in your future educational environment (your future work environment).

Autonomy
Veracity
Confidentiality
Nonmaleficence
Beneficence
Justice Ethical Principles in Nursing Practice Essay Assignment Paper