Applying Ethical Principles For Learners At Capella U 191043
Applying Ethical Principles Learner’s Name Capella University NHS4000: Developing a
Applying ethical principles in healthcare involves analyzing complex situations where moral values and principles guide decision-making. The case of Betsy, a pediatric nurse, confronting a dilemma involving Shirley, a young girl with seizures whose parents refuse medical intervention due to their religious beliefs, exemplifies the application of ethical principles in practical scenarios. This essay explores the core ethical issues within this case, employing the four fundamental principles—autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice—to analyze the dilemma and propose a resolution grounded in ethical theory and professional responsibility.
Introduction
Healthcare professionals frequently encounter ethical challenges, especially when patient or family beliefs conflict with medical advice. Respecting patient autonomy is fundamental; however, it must be balanced with beneficence—the obligation to promote the patient’s well-being—and nonmaleficence—the duty to prevent harm. Justice, ensuring fairness in treatment, also underpins ethical decision-making. The case involving Betsy and Shirley’s family raises questions about how to navigate these principles when religious beliefs oppose recommended medical care, such as for epilepsy symptoms.
Case Summary and Ethical Conflict
Betsy, a dedicated pediatric nurse, observes Shirley experiencing seizures and becomes concerned that the symptoms indicate a need for prompt diagnosis and intervention. Shirley’s parents, adherents of Christian Science, rely solely on prayer and spiritual healing, rejecting conventional medical treatment. Despite explanations from Betsy and Dr. Campbell about potential health risks—including cognitive and behavioral impairments resulting from untreated seizures—the parents remain steadfast in their faith-based approach.
This situation presents a complex ethical conflict: Should Betsy respect the family’s religious autonomy and refrain from intervening, or should she prioritize Shirley’s health through advocacy or even involuntary measures? This dilemma involves balancing respect for religious freedom with the healthcare professional’s obligation to prevent harm and act beneficently on behalf of the minor patient.
Application of the Ethical Decision-Making Model
The ethical decision-making model involves three key components: moral awareness, moral judgment, and ethical action. Betsy demonstrates moral awareness by recognizing the potential harm due to untreated seizures. Her moral judgment involves assessing whether respecting the family’s wishes aligns with her professional responsibilities. Ethical action entails taking appropriate steps to protect Shirley’s health, which may include advocating for medical intervention.
Betsy’s recognition of the ethical dilemma is rooted in her concern for Shirley’s well-being and her awareness of the family’s religious convictions. Her moral judgment is informed by her understanding of medical realities and ethical principles, leading her to consider actions that might conflict with families' autonomy but serve Shirley’s best interests. Her decision to seek further medical assessment via a multidisciplinary approach reflects her commitment to acting beneficently and preventing harm.
Communication Strategies and Ethical Principles
Effective communication rooted in empathy, respect, and transparency is essential in such ethical dilemmas. Betsy exemplifies these values by actively listening to the parents’ beliefs and providing comprehensive, understandable information about Shirley’s condition. Maintaining open, non-judgmental dialogue fosters trust and facilitates informed decision-making.
Respect for autonomy entails acknowledging the parents’ right to religious freedom, yet this must be balanced with her duty to prevent harm (nonmaleficence) and to promote Shirley’s health (beneficence). She involves Dr. Campbell to provide an objective medical perspective, illustrating professional collaboration. Despite her efforts, the parents’ refusal to pursue medical testing persists, demonstrating the limits of communication strategies in cases where beliefs fundamentally oppose medical intervention.
Resolving the Ethical Dilemma Using Principles
The core ethical principles involved are:
- Autonomy: Respect for Shirley’s parents’ religious beliefs and decision-making authority.
- Beneficence: The obligation to act in Shirley’s best interest by preventing health deterioration.
- Nonmaleficence: Avoiding harm caused by untreated seizures.
- Justice: Ensuring Shirley receives fair and appropriate healthcare.
The dilemma centers on conflicts between autonomy and beneficence/nonmaleficence. While respecting family autonomy is vital, the minor patient cannot fully exercise decision-making rights. Therefore, healthcare providers have a moral and legal obligation to act in Shirley’s best interest, potentially justifying interventions that override parental decisions under applicable laws.
Betsy might consider involving child protective services if the refusal of treatment endangers Shirley’s health and safety, aligning with legal mandates for child welfare. Such action, although infringing on parental autonomy, may be ethically justified when it serves the child’s best interests and prevents significant harm, in accordance with the principle of justice and protective laws.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Legal frameworks typically recognize the role of healthcare providers in intervening to protect minors from neglect or harm, especially when neglect poses a clear risk. The concept of the "best interest of the child" guides such interventions. Ethical principles align with legal directives, emphasizing that when parental choices threaten a child's health and safety, healthcare professionals may need to seek legal remedies.
Nonetheless, respecting religious freedoms remains an essential value, protected by the constitution and legal precedents, but it does not outweigh the obligation to protect minors from significant health risks. Ethical practice involves careful assessment of risks, consulting with ethics committees, and following institutional policies.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The case illustrates the complex interplay of ethical principles in pediatric healthcare. While respecting religious autonomy is fundamental, healthcare professionals must prioritize the child’s health and safety based on beneficence and nonmaleficence. When parental decisions threaten harm, intervention grounded in legal authority and ethical justification is appropriate.
Betsy’s role highlights the importance of effective communication, advocacy, and ethical deliberation in managing such dilemmas. She might seek legal counsel or involve child protective services to safeguard Shirley’s well-being if parental refusal persists. Ultimately, balancing respect for religious beliefs with the moral obligation to prevent harm constitutes the core of ethical pediatric care.
References
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