Ethical Issues Discussion – Autonomy
In my practice as a healthcare professional, I encountered a significant ethical dilemma related to patient autonomy and confidentiality. A patient with a serious medical condition explicitly requested that certain information about their diagnosis and treatment be kept confidential from their family members. The dilemma arose when the patient’s family, who were actively involved in the patient’s care and decision-making process, insisted on knowing all the details regarding the medical condition.
The ethical principles at play in this situation include autonomy, the right of the patient to make decisions about their healthcare, confidentiality, and the obligation to protect sensitive information disclosed during the patient-provider relationship. Fidelity, the duty to be faithful and keep promises, was also relevant, as the patient had entrusted me with their request for confidentiality (Grace, 2022).
However, balancing these principles was challenging. On one hand, respecting the patient’s autonomy and maintaining confidentiality was crucial for building trust in the patient-provider relationship. On the other hand, involving the family in the decision-making process is often seen as essential for comprehensive and holistic patient care (Pozgar, 2023). To address this dilemma, I initiated a thorough discussion with the patient, emphasizing the importance of involving the family in the decision-making process and explaining the potential benefits. However, I also highlighted the patient’s right to confidentiality and the potential harm that could arise from breaching their trust. The family was informed about the general nature of the condition only if the patient consented.
Ultimately, a compromise was reached where the family agreed to respect the patient’s wishes regarding confidentiality to a certain extent. This resolution attempted to balance the ethical principles of autonomy, confidentiality, and beneficence (promoting the patient’s well-being). While it may not have satisfied all parties completely, it aimed to uphold the key ethical values in healthcare. This experience reinforced the importance of open communication, empathy, and a patient-centered approach in navigating complex ethical dilemmas. It also highlighted the need for ongoing ethical reflection and sensitivity to the unique circumstances of each patient.
References
Grace, P. J. (2022). Nursing ethics and professional responsibility in advanced practice. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Pozgar, G. D. (2023). Legal and ethical issues for health professionals. Jones & Bartlett Learning.
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Question 
Ethical Issues Discussion – Autonomy
Step 1 In your initial post of approximately 150 words, identify an ethical or legal issues or dilemmas that you have encountered in your practice. Use defining ethical terms in your post (for example, fidelity, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and so on). How was the situation resolved? Did the resolution follow ethical principles?
Step 2 Read other students’ posts and respond to at least two of them by Friday at 11:59 pm MT.
Use one credible source to support each response post.