When faced with an ethical dilemma, nurses should follow a structured approach to ethical deliberation:
1. Identify the Issue: Clearly define the ethical problem or conflict. 2. Gather Information: Collect relevant facts, including patient preferences, medical history, and potential outcomes. 3. Consider the Principles: Reflect on the ethical principles that apply to the situation. 4. Explore Options: Evaluate different courses of action and their potential impacts. 5. Make a Decision: Choose the most ethically sound option. 6. Reflect on the Outcome: After the decision has been implemented, assess the results and consider any lessons learned.
