As nurses, we are often faced with complex ethical dilemmas that challenge our moral compass and test our decision-making skills. These situations can be emotionally charged and may have far-reaching consequences for our patients, their families, and our own well-being. In this post, we will explore real-life case studies and provide a framework for navigating these challenging waters.

Case Study 1: The Dilemma of Patient Autonomy
Sarah, a seasoned ICU nurse, is caring for Mr. Johnson, a 75-year-old patient with advanced lung cancer. Mr. Johnson has expressed his wish to forgo life-sustaining treatment and die peacefully. However, his family insists that everything possible be done to prolong his life. Sarah is torn between respecting her patient's autonomy and the family's wishes.

In such situations, nurses must consider the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, and non-maleficence. Autonomy refers to the patient's right to make decisions about their own care, while beneficence involves acting in the patient's best interest. Non-maleficence means avoiding harm to the patient.

To navigate this dilemma, Sarah should:

• Engage in open and honest communication with Mr. Johnson and his family to understand their perspectives and values.
• Involve the healthcare team, including the physician and ethics committee, to provide guidance and support.
• Advocate for Mr. Johnson's right to make informed decisions about his care while providing compassionate support to the family.

Case Study 2: The Dilemma of Resource Allocation
During a severe flu outbreak, Nurse Mark is working in a crowded emergency department. Two patients require immediate attention: a young mother with severe respiratory distress and an elderly patient with multiple comorbidities. With limited resources and staff, Mark must decide who to prioritize.

In this scenario, the ethical principle of justice comes into play. Justice refers to the fair allocation of resources based on need and potential benefit. Nurses must also consider the principles of utility (maximizing benefits for the greatest number of people) and equality (treating all patients fairly).

To navigate this dilemma, Mark should:

• Assess the severity and urgency of each patient's condition using objective criteria and triage protocols.
• Collaborate with the healthcare team to determine the most appropriate allocation of resources based on the principles of justice and utility.
• Communicate openly and empathetically with both patients and their families, explaining the rationale behind the decision-making process.
  
  

The Four-Box Method: A Framework for Ethical Decision-Making