HA4050D – Healthcare Law Discussion 09.1: NAUXChange 09 ACTIVITY 27 Visit the website for the American Nurses Association and view the Code of Ethics for Nurses. Locate the rule on “The Right to Self-Determination.” Why does the ANA believe it is important for patients to have control over their own treatment? Legal Aspects of Healthcare Administration 13th Pozgar 2019 Jones & Bartlett-Vitalsource #magicMAN61
The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses is a comprehensive guideline that outlines the professional standards and ethical responsibilities nurses must uphold. One crucial aspect highlighted in the code is “The Right to Self-Determination” which emphasizes the importance of patient autonomy and control over their own treatment decisions. This discussion will explore the ANA’s belief in the significance of patient self-determination and why it is crucial in healthcare settings.
The ANA emphasizes the principle of autonomy and strongly advocates for patients to have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare. This principle is rooted in the ethical concept of respect for persons, which holds that individuals have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to make decisions regarding their own lives and bodies. Patient autonomy recognizes that individuals have unique values, beliefs, and preferences that should guide their healthcare decisions.
By granting patients the right to self-determination, the ANA believes that healthcare decisions can be tailored to the specific needs and desires of each individual. It ensures that patients are active participants in their healthcare journey, rather than passive recipients of care. This approach promotes patient-centered care, where healthcare professionals work collaboratively with patients to develop treatment plans that align with their goals and values.
Empowering patients with the right to self-determination allows them to maintain control over their healthcare decisions, which is crucial in ensuring respect for their autonomy. Patients have the right to be fully informed about their medical condition, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits. When patients are actively involved in decision-making, they are better able to participate in shared decision-making processes and select treatment options that align with their personal values.
Additionally, the ANA recognizes that individuals have the right to refuse medical treatment, even if it goes against medical advice. By recognizing and protecting this right, healthcare professionals are encouraged to engage in open and honest discussions with patients, providing them with the necessary information to make informed decisions. This ensures that patients are not coerced or pressured into treatment plans they do not desire, and that their decisions are respected and upheld.
Furthermore, the ANA believes that promoting patient self-determination is essential in maintaining trust and strengthening the nurse-patient relationship. When patients feel empowered and respected as active participants in their healthcare, it fosters trust in healthcare professionals and enhances the therapeutic alliance. Trust is a fundamental aspect in healthcare, as it enables patients to openly communicate their concerns, ask questions, and collaborate with healthcare providers to achieve optimal health outcomes.
In legal terms, upholding patient self-determination is consistent with the principles of informed consent and patient rights. Informed consent requires healthcare providers to inform patients about the nature of their condition, the proposed treatment, alternatives, and potential risks and benefits, enabling patients to make autonomous decisions. Patient rights legislate that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare, including the right to refuse treatment, as long as they have the capacity to make informed decisions.
In conclusion, the ANA places great importance on patient self-determination and its role in healthcare decision-making. Granting patients the right to make decisions about their own treatment ensures respect for their autonomy, promotes patient-centered care, and fosters a trusting nurse-patient relationship. Upholding patient self-determination aligns with legal principles of informed consent and patient rights, ensuring that individuals have the freedom to choose the healthcare options that best align with their values and beliefs.