Towards ethical decision-making in nursing practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Bioethics
• Healthcare Decision-Making

Background:

• Ethical decision-making is a critical component of nursing practice.
• Nurses frequently encounter complex ethical dilemmas, particularly concerning life-prolongation decisions.
• Existing research highlights challenges nurses face in navigating these ethical complexities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore nurses' lived experiences with decision-making in ethical issues, specifically life prolongation.
• To identify factors contributing to a sense of "senselessness" in ethical decision-making processes.
• To propose strategies for fostering more ethical decision-making in nursing.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research methodology.
• Analysis of nurses' descriptions of their experiences with ethical decision-making.
• Examination of themes related to patient, family, and nurse involvement in decision-making.

Main Results:

• A predominant theme of "senselessness" emerged from nurses' accounts of ethical decision-making.
• Key factors contributing to senselessness included inadequate patient, family, and nurse involvement.
• Fragmentary team decision-making and powerlessness were significant aspects of the described experiences.

Conclusions:

• The current approach to ethical decision-making in nursing, particularly regarding life prolongation, is often perceived as senseless.
• Addressing issues of conflict, powerlessness, and fragmented communication is crucial.
• Implementing strategies to enhance patient, family, and nurse engagement can promote more ethical and meaningful decision-making.