What Ethical Considerations Are Involved in Referring Patients?
Ethical considerations in referrals include ensuring patient autonomy, confidentiality, and informed consent. Nurses must provide unbiased information and support patients in making decisions that align with their values and preferences. It is important to respect a patient's right to accept or decline a referral and to ensure that referrals are based solely on clinical need rather than external influences such as financial incentives or personal biases.