h Presume you are the nurse admitting this patient. Discuss your reactions and your conflicts. Choose one of the first 3 provisions and discuss this article in that context. Please include the provision number in your post subject line. Initial post is to identify the provision and use it to support how you would solve the dilemma in the case study. Each student must then post a substantive reply to two fellow students.
Provision 1 of the American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics states that “the nurse practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of every person.” In the given case study, a 16-year-old girl presents with a pregnancy that is the result of rape. As the nurse admitting this patient, this situation elicits a range of reactions and conflicts.
Firstly, as a nurse, it is important to approach this situation with compassion and respect for the patient’s inherent dignity. The girl is likely experiencing a wide range of emotions due to the traumatic event she has faced, and it is crucial to provide her with a safe and nonjudgmental space to express her feelings and concerns. This provision reminds us that every person has their own unique attributes, and it is our responsibility to understand and support them without making assumptions.
Furthermore, this provision also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and upholding the principles of autonomy and self-determination. The girl in the case study is a minor, which adds an additional layer of complexity. It is crucial to respect her autonomy and involve her in the decision-making process to the extent that is appropriate for her age and maturity. As a nurse, I would ensure that the girl is provided with age-appropriate information about her options and support her in making decisions that align with her values and preferences.
In this case, provision 1 supports the notion that the nurse should provide the girl with information about her options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting. It is essential to present these options without bias and allow the patient to make an informed decision based on her values, beliefs, and individual circumstances. It is important to acknowledge the potential conflicts that may arise due to societal or personal beliefs, but as a nurse, we must prioritize the well-being and autonomy of the patient.
However, it is crucial to note that this provision does not give the nurse the authority to make decisions on behalf of the patient. The nurse’s role in this situation is to facilitate the decision-making process and provide the necessary support and resources for the patient to make an informed choice. It is essential to have open and honest communication with the girl and involve her support system, such as parents, guardians, or a legal representative, as appropriate and in accordance with state laws and regulations.
In summary, provision 1 of the ANA Code of Ethics guides the nurse’s actions in the case study involving a 16-year-old girl with a pregnancy resulting from rape. The provision emphasizes the nurse’s responsibility to practice with compassion, respect the inherent dignity of every person, and acknowledge their unique attributes. In this situation, it supports the nurse’s role in providing age-appropriate information, supporting the patient in making autonomous decisions, and involving her support system as appropriate. However, it is important to remember that the nurse does not make decisions on behalf of the patient but rather facilitates the decision-making process and promotes the patient’s well-being and autonomy.