Purpose Of Comment In Discussion Class 506 Unit 3 Topic 2

Purpose Commentthe Discussion Class 506 Unit 3 Topic 2 Comment 1 L

Discussing the clinical criteria for determining danger to self involves understanding both legal and ethical considerations in psychiatric admissions. The scenario involves a wife who is intoxicated and loud, but not necessarily in danger to herself or others, raising questions about appropriate procedures and ethical responsibilities of nurses and physicians.

According to New York State law, involuntary psychiatric admission requires that clinicians establish that the individual poses a clear danger to themselves or others. While the law permits two physicians to sign off on such admissions, these physicians should be impartial and not have personal or familial ties to the patient to avoid conflicts of interest or undue influence. In this context, the fact that the physicians are also friends of the husband raises ethical concerns regarding their objectivity in assessing the patient's condition.

The nurse’s role in this situation is crucial, particularly in safeguarding the patient's rights and well-being. Ethical guidelines stipulate that nurses act as patient advocates, especially when patients are unable to make sound decisions due to intoxication or mental state fluctuations (Ingham-Broomfield, 2017). The principle of beneficence emphasizes that nurses must do good and prevent harm. As the patient is only intoxicated and being loud, rather than displaying behavior that constitutes an imminent danger, involuntary admission may not be justified at this point.

Furthermore, the presence of a divorce indicates potential personal stressors that could affect the wife’s mental health and her custody rights, thus complicating her mental state. As a neighbor and observer, one must consider that the husband might be exerting undue influence over her psychiatric evaluation, especially given the power dynamics and familial ties involved. This underscores the importance of objective, ethically grounded assessments and the need for clinicians to base their decisions on thorough, evidence-based evaluations rather than personal or external pressures (Rotvold & Wynn, 2015).

To ensure adherence to ethical and legal standards, the nurse should advocate for a comprehensive assessment by independent clinicians uninfluenced by familial relationships. Consulting with the charge nurse or supervisor adds a layer of advocacy to protect the patient’s rights. Ethical principles such as justice and autonomy further support the need for a fair evaluation process that respects the patient’s legal rights and dignity (Westrick, 2013).

In conclusion, while mental health professionals must act swiftly in cases where individuals are genuinely at risk, the criteria for involuntary admission must be carefully evaluated, and the integrity of the assessment process maintained. Avoiding conflicts of interest and ensuring ethical decision-making are fundamental to safeguarding patient rights and delivering appropriate care.

References

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  • Westrick, S. J. (2013). Essentials of nursing law and ethics (2nd ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
  • American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. American Psychologist, 72(1), 1-34.
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