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Applying Ethical Principles
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
In the complexities of end-of-life decision-making, healthcare professionals must grapple with ethical dilemmas that demand careful consideration and adherence to ethical principles. Eleanor Thompson’s case exemplifies the intricate balance between patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. This analysis searches into the ethical issues surrounding Eleanor’s care and proposes a solution grounded in ethical principles and effective communication approaches.
Overview of the Case Study
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
The case study revolves around Eleanor Thompson, a 72-year-old woman grappling with aggressive ovarian cancer. Despite undergoing numerous rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, Eleanor’s condition has worsened, leaving her in significant pain and suffering. Dr. Samuel Martinez, her oncologist, is confronted with the ethical dilemma of whether to continue aggressive treatment or transition Eleanor to palliative care. This decision is further complicated by the divided opinions of Eleanor’s family members. Maria, her eldest daughter, advocates for the relentless pursuit of treatment, clinging to hope for a miraculous recovery. At the same time, Michael, her son, believes Eleanor should be spared further suffering and transitioned to palliative care for comfort. Eleanor’s husband, Robert, is torn between respecting his wife’s fighting spirit and wanting to alleviate her pain.
To assess the facts of the case, it’s imperative to consider scholarly literature on end-of-life decision-making. One relevant article is “End-of-life Decision Making in Oncology: A Review of Current Knowledge and a Research Agenda” by (Luna-Meza et al., 2021). This article emphasizes the importance of shared decision-making in end-of-life care, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to consider patients’ preferences and values when making treatment decisions. In Eleanor’s case, the family’s conflicting views underscore the complexity of decision-making and the necessity of involving patients and their families. The article supports the analysis by providing a framework for understanding the significance of patient-centred care in end-of-life scenarios.
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3 Applying Ethical Principles
“Ethical considerations in end-of-life care for patients with cancer” by (Akdeniz et al., 2021) sheds light on the ethical principles guiding end-of-life care decisions. The article discusses the principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice, which are highly relevant to Eleanor’s case. Dr. Martinez must balance these principles while considering Eleanor’s best interests and respecting her independence in decision-making. The article reinforces the ethical imperative of prioritizing patient well-being and autonomy, supporting the analysis of the case by providing a theoretical foundation for ethical decision-making in healthcare.
Analysis of Ethical Issues in the Case Study
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
In Eleanor Thompson’s case, several ethical issues arise, primarily around beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. The principle of beneficence urges healthcare professionals to act in the patient’s best interests, ensuring their well-being. Dr. Martinez must weigh the potential benefits of further treatment against the risks and burdens it may impose on Eleanor. Continuing aggressive treatment may offer a slim chance of prolonging Eleanor’s life. Still, it also poses the risk of exacerbating her suffering and diminishing her quality of life. On the other hand, transitioning to palliative care prioritizes symptom management and comfort but may forego potential life-prolonging measures. The ethical dilemma is determining which action aligns with Eleanor’s best interests and values.
The principle of non-maleficence, or “no harm,” underscores the importance of minimizing harm and suffering in medical interventions. Dr. Martinez must carefully assess the potential harms of further aggressive treatments, considering the physical and psychological effects they may have on Eleanor. Continuing treatment without a realistic prospect of improvement may prolong Eleanor’s suffering unnecessarily, raising ethical concerns about the appropriateness of such interventions.
Autonomy, the principle that respects individuals’ rights to make their own decisions about their healthcare, is another crucial consideration. Eleanor’s autonomy should be paramount in the decision-making process, with Dr. Martinez ensuring that she is fully informed about her condition, treatment options, and potential outcomes. However, Eleanor’s autonomy may be compromised by conflicting opinions within her family, highlighting the challenge of balancing patient autonomy with familial influences and preferences.
The principle of justice necessitates fair and equitable treatment for all patients, regardless of their circumstances or personal preferences. Dr. Martinez must ensure that Eleanor’s care is guided by principles of fairness and equity, considering her unique needs and values. Additionally, he must navigate the family dynamics to ensure that each member’s voice is heard and respected in decision-making.
Effectiveness of Communication Approaches
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
In the case study, effective communication is paramount in facilitating informed decision-making and resolving conflicts among family members. Dr. Martinez must adopt a transparent, empathetic, and patient-centered communication approach to ensure that Eleanor and her family understand the implications of each treatment option. Open dialogue builds trust, reduces uncertainty, and empowers patients and their families to participate actively in decision-making.
One approach that should be used more is active listening. Dr. Martinez should actively listen to Eleanor and her family members, acknowledging their concerns, fears, and preferences without judgment. Dr. Martinez can establish rapport and create a supportive environment where open communication thrives by demonstrating empathy and compassion.
Shared decision-making should be emphasized, wherein Dr. Martinez collaborates with Eleanor and her family to explore treatment options, discuss their benefits and drawbacks, and ultimately arrive at a consensus that aligns with Eleanor’s values and goals of care. Shared decision-making promotes autonomy, enhances patient satisfaction, and leads to more informed and meaningful decisions.
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3 Applying Ethical Principles
Conversely, approaches that undermine effective communication should be avoided, such as paternalistic attitudes or unilateral decision-making. Dr. Martinez should refrain from imposing his values or preferences onto Eleanor or her family members, respecting their autonomy and right to participate in decision-making. Likewise, avoiding conflict and defensiveness in communication fosters a collaborative and supportive atmosphere conducive to ethical decision-making.
Resolving the Ethical Dilemma by Applying Ethical Principles
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
Resolving the ethical dilemma in Eleanor Thompson’s case requires a thoughtful application of ethical principles to arrive at a solution that respects Eleanor’s autonomy, prioritizes her well-being, and considers the perspectives of her family members. One possible solution involves facilitating a family meeting where Dr. Martinez can share decision-making with Eleanor and her family. During this meeting, Dr. Martinez can provide comprehensive information about Eleanor’s prognosis, treatment options, and potential outcomes, ensuring that the family understands the implications of each choice.
This proposed solution aligns with ethical principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, and respect for autonomy. By involving Eleanor and her family in the decision-making process, Dr. Martinez demonstrates respect for Eleanor’s independence and her right to make informed choices about her care. Additionally, the focus on shared decision-making promotes beneficence by prioritizing Eleanor’s well-being and ensuring that her treatment aligns with her values and preferences. By providing transparent and empathetic communication, Dr. Martinez upholds the principle of non-maleficence, avoiding unnecessary harm and minimizing suffering.
The proposed solution fosters collaboration and mutual understanding among Eleanor’s family members, addressing the conflicts arising from differing opinions. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment for decision-making, Dr. Martinez promotes justice, ensuring that each family member’s perspective is heard and respected. This approach also facilitates effective communication among the family members, encouraging open dialogue and shared decision-making.
The proposed solution to Eleanor’s ethical dilemma is grounded in ethical principles and promotes patient-centred care. By prioritizing Eleanor’s autonomy, well-being, and values while also considering the perspectives of her family members, Dr. Martinez can navigate the complex ethical landscape of end-of-life decision-making with compassion and integrity.
Conclusion
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
Resolving Eleanor Thompson’s ethical dilemma requires a holistic approach prioritizing patient autonomy, well-being, and family dynamics. By applying ethical principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, freedom, and justice, and fostering effective communication, healthcare professionals can navigate the complexities of end-of-life decision-making with compassion and integrity, ensuring that patient-centeredness and respect for individual preferences and values guide Eleanor’s care.
References
NHS FPX 4000 Assessment 3
Akdeniz, M., Yardımcı, B., & Kavukcu, E. (2021). Ethical considerations at the end-of-life care. SAGE Open Medicine, 9(9), 43–98.
https://doi.org/10.1177/20503121211000918
Luna-Meza, A., Godoy-Casasbuenas, N., Calvache, J. A., Díaz-Amado, E., Gempeler Rueda, F. E., Morales, O., Leal, F., Gómez-Restrepo, C., & de Vries, E. (2021). Decision making in the end-of-life care of patients who are terminally ill with cancer – a qualitative descriptive study with a phenomenological approach from the experience of healthcare workers. BMC Palliative Care, 20(1), 45–78.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12904-021-00768-5
