The development of ethical thought in long-term care

1. Pervasive medical technology influences treatment decisions in long-term care. Clinical decision-making is enhanced by the development of an ethical thought process among staff. 2. Disagreements among staff about the appropriateness of clinical decisions can lower staff morale and negatively affect the work environment. 3. Staff education about ethical principles and how they influence decision-making helps to define the patient's rights and the caregiver's responsibilities. 4. The use of staff experiences in teaching ethical principles is successful in educating all levels of staff about everyday ethics in long-term care.