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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
14:32
Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Ethical decision-making when caring for the noncompliant patient.
1Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona 85006, USA. susan.phillips@bannerhealth.com
Summary
Nurses face ethical challenges caring for patients with intravenous substance use disorder. This article offers insights into substance abuse, ethical models, and strategies to improve care and reduce nurse stress.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Addiction Medicine
- Bioethics
Background:
- Ethical dilemmas are common when nurses care for patients with a history of intravenous substance abuse.
- Patients with substance use disorders are frequently hospitalized on medical-surgical units, presenting unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss recent findings on substance abuse, including its neurological, societal, and healthcare impacts.
- To introduce an ethical model for analyzing dilemmas and provide strategies for improving nursing care.
- To reduce nurse frustration and stress, thereby improving morale when caring for this population.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent findings on substance abuse and its complications.
- Introduction of an ethical model for dilemma analysis.
- Identification of resources and strategies for nursing staff.
Main Results:
- Substance abuse has significant impacts on the brain, society, and healthcare systems.
- Medical complications associated with substance abuse require specialized nursing attention.
- An ethical model and practical strategies can aid nurses in managing complex patient care.
Conclusions:
- Improved understanding of substance abuse and ethical frameworks can enhance nursing care.
- Implementing identified strategies and utilizing available resources can mitigate nurse stress and improve morale.
- A historical perspective, through Florence Nightingale's lens, offers timeless insights into ethical nursing practice.
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