Active in Rehab, Coursework Example

The concept of ethical consulting is integral to the Doctor of Nursing Practice role, as it reflects the importance of ethical decision-making in all areas of nursing practice (Chism, 2016). Ethical frameworks are a basic component of nursing practice and require a sound and effective understanding of the nursing profession as it aims to meet the needs of the patient population effectively and consistently. In the example provided regarding the patient with end stage prostate cancer, the ethical dilemmas that the family faced were difficult to endure because of the patient’s choice to receive holistic care, as well as much confusion regarding the options that were presented regarding hospice and palliative care. In working with this patient and his family, it was clear that the situation was difficult because of this confusion, yet the knowledge acquired in the DNP role was important in aiming to understand the gaps in knowledge for the patient and his family. Therefore, learning about the patient’s situation and clearly communicating the options that were available through a specific tool was a useful approach (Ullrich, Schopf, Nagl, & Farin, 2015).

In accordance with the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics (2015), it is important to establish ethical behavior in the nursing work environment that will extend to patient care and treatment. In this context, all patients must have the right to obtain healthcare and education at a level which they are able to comprehend, while also considering the impact of this care in order to minimize the risks associated with suffering, illness, and trauma, (ANA, 2015). In addition, the concepts associated with interprofessional collaboration are also instrumental in shaping a positive dynamic for patient care and treatment at a high level to facilitate positive results for the example patient, as well as other patients who require nursing care and treatment at a high quality level on a consistent basis (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2006).

References

American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2006). The essentials of doctoral educational for

advanced nursing practice. Washington, DC: Author
American Nurses Association (ANA). (2015). Code of ethics for nurses. Silver Spring. MD. Author. Retrieved from: http://www.nursingworld.org/DocumentVault/Ethics_1/Code-of-Ethics-for-Nurses.html

Chism, L.A. (2016). The DNP graduate as ethical consultant. In L. A. Chism (Ed.). The doctor of nursing practice: A guidebook for role development and professional issue (3rd ed.) (pp. 203-244). Burlington, MA: Jones and Bartlett.

Ullrich, A., Schöpf, A. C., Nagl, M., & Farin, E. (2015). Active in rehab: Development and formative evaluation of a patient education program to increase health literacy of patients with chronic illness. Rehabilitation, 54(2), 109-115. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1394450