Nursing and Registered Nursing Profession

Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing Practice

Ethical dilemmas are an inevitable part of nursing practice, where nurses often face complex situations that require careful consideration of ethical principles. These dilemmas arise when there is a conflict between different ethical values, duties, or obligations. One common ethical dilemma in nursing practice is balancing patient autonomy and beneficence. Nurses must respect the autonomy and right to self-determination of their patients while also ensuring their well-being and promoting the best possible outcomes. This can be challenging when a patient's decision may not align with what healthcare professionals believe is in their best interest.

Confidentiality and privacy are also crucial ethical considerations. Nurses must safeguard patient information and maintain confidentiality, but they may face dilemmas when there is a need to disclose information for the greater good, such as in cases of suspected abuse or public health concerns. Resource allocation is another ethical challenge, especially in situations where there are limited resources. Nurses must navigate the ethical principles of justice and fairness when determining how to allocate resources and provide equitable care to all patients. End-of-life care presents ethical dilemmas as well, with decisions regarding withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments, managing pain, and honoring patient preferences. Nurses play a vital role in advocating for the patient's wishes while considering the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence.