Hello everyone,
I'm a first year nursing student (BScN) and need help with an ethical analysis for and ethical dilemma/violation.
I'm just looking for guidance on the legal side (Canadian law) of the situation.
Mr. X has advanced pancreatic cancer. He speaks very little English and refused an interpreter as he trusts his sons completely. He had surgery but has no chance of recovery. Mr. X is dying.
The team had a meeting with Mr. X and his sons to explain the situation. The team was very clear in their statements that:
- the surgery showed that the cancer was too advanced for other treatments.
- he is dying
- the health team would try to make his as comfortable as possible with
palliative treatments for pain and
supportive care.
The sons listened carefully, asked lots of questions, and then turned to talk to their father. They told him that:
- the surgery removed the tumor
- he would require lots more treatment
- he was on the road to recovery
No one is aware that Mr. X has been misinformed and that he thinks he will receive medication and interventions to
alleviate pain and
promote healing.
*ethical dilemma or ethical violation?
*What ethical principles are involved?
*Are there any legal rules that govern the situation?
*Course of action to be taken?
Thanks
Marquise B.
Nursing News