The ANA Code of Ethics currently emphasizes the word “patient” instead of the word “client” in referring to nursing care recipients. Do you agree with this change? Why or why not? Review the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements found in Appendix B of your Butts text. (attached)
Title: The Use of “Patient” vs “Client” in the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses: An Analysis
Introduction:
The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses plays a pivotal role in guiding the professional conduct and ethical responsibilities of nurses. As the healthcare landscape evolves, considerations arise regarding the terminology employed in the code. This paper critically examines the utilization of the term “patient” in contrast to the term “client” in the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses, with the aim of determining the appropriateness of this distinction.
Rationale for Analyzing the Terminology:
The choice between “patient” and “client” reflects more than a semantic preference; it has significant implications for nursing practice, the nurse-patient/client relationship, and the perception of nursing as a profession. The terms used to describe the recipients of nursing care influence how nurses perceive their roles, the level of autonomy granted to patients/clients, and the overall dynamics of the therapeutic relationship.
Analysis of the ANA Code of Ethics:
The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses, in its current version, predominantly employs the term “patient” to refer to individuals receiving nursing care (ANA, 2015). However, the interpretation of the code acknowledges that the term “patient” is inclusive and could also refer to recipients of nursing care in various settings, such as clients in community-based or outpatient settings (ANA, 2015, p. 112-113). Therefore, while the code primarily uses “patient,” it indirectly acknowledges the broader scope of nursing practice.
Historical Context of the Terminology:
The historical use of the term “patient” can be traced back to the traditional hospital-centered model of healthcare, where medical professionals were granted a high degree of authority in providing care. In this model, patients were passive recipients of healthcare services, providing minimal input into their own care plans. Consequently, the term “patient” carries connotations of a more passive and dependent role (ANA, 2015, p. 112).
In contrast, the term “client” conveys a more collaborative and egalitarian relationship between the healthcare provider and the recipient of care. It implies that the individual has agency and is an active participant in their own care. Additionally, “client” is commonly used in community-based care models, where nursing interventions focus on promoting health and preventing illness (ANA, 2015, p. 112).
Arguments in Favor of the Change:
Advocates for using the term “client” argue that it reflects the evolving nature of healthcare delivery, emphasizing patient-centered care and shared decision-making (ANA, 2015, p. 112-113). This terminology shift aligns with the broader emphasis on patient autonomy, empowerment, and collaborative care models. By adopting the term “client,” nurses acknowledge and validate the rights of individuals to actively participate in their care, fostering a more person-centered approach.
Moreover, the term “client” suggests a wider range of healthcare contexts beyond the traditional hospital setting. It encompasses individuals seeking care from community health centers, ambulatory care settings, and home care services. Using “client” highlights the diversity of health services available and recognizes the varied contexts in which nursing care is provided.
Arguments against the Change:
Critics of using the term “client” argue that it could undermine the specialized knowledge and expertise of nurses. They argue that “client” implies a consumer model that emphasizes customer satisfaction over clinical expertise (ANA, 2015, p. 113). The term may inadvertently fuel the perception that nursing is solely transactional, devaluing the therapeutic relationship and the unique contributions of nursing.
Furthermore, the term “patient” has long-standing recognition in the healthcare domain, and altering it could create confusion or resistance. Traditional healthcare settings and older iterations of ethical codes predominantly used the term “patient,” thus establishing its familiarity and acceptance within professional practice (ANA, 2015, p. 113).
Conclusion:
The debate surrounding the use of “patient” versus “client” in the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses reflects the evolving nature of healthcare delivery and the changing dynamics of the nurse-patient/client relationship. While the use of the term “client” aligns with patient-centered and collaborative care models, potential challenges regarding the devaluation of nursing expertise and resistance to change must be considered. Ultimately, the decision to employ “patient” or “client” in the code requires careful consideration of the long-standing traditions, perceptions of nursing as a profession, and the evolving needs of healthcare recipients.