Who can solve this ethical dilemma?

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Good Afternoon all,

I have a question about ethical dilemma and how to solve it,

( you are a nurse-manager on a surgical unit & you are presented with a client who refuse to sign consent for treatment. ) What can you do about it?:sarcastic:

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Well, you don't treat them. If they won't consent, you don't treat, and you document as much with witnesses. It's pretty straightfoward.

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Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

This sounds like a homework question to me. Where have you looked to find answers?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

It's not an ethical question because this is not a 'gray' area. As licensed professionals, we must adhere to the legal standards. In this case, (assuming an adult, competent client) NO consent = NO treatment. BTW, it is the surgeon's responsibility to obtain consent, nurses only serve as witnesses.

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You should never "push" a client to sign a consent, but you can explore why they don't want to consent. Maybe they have misconceptions that the ordering MD can clear up. Their competence should also be determined and a guardian should be appointed, if appropriate.

If the patient is competent and understands the procedure, but still refuses, alternative treatments can be explored. The patient could also be discharged to an appropriate place ...sometimes, it's hospice.

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yeah, I am thinking homework, but also, I am thinking the OP means the general-on-admission consent to treat....which means the patient should get dressed and leave if they won't sign....

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