The Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) was implemented to allow patients to state “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNS), or to assign a surrogate decision maker in the event the individual is unable to make the decision. What relationship does an ethics committee have in enforcing the advance directives of the patients in their care? Support your analysis with a minimum of one peer-reviewed article. 300 WORDS, NO PLAGISRISM PLEASE Purchase the answer to view it
The Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) was enacted in 1990 in the United States and it was designed to empower patients with the ability to make their own medical decisions, particularly when they are unable to communicate those decisions themselves. The PSDA gave patients the right to create advance directives – legal documents that communicate their wishes regarding medical treatment and appointing a surrogate decision-maker if needed. One important aspect of enforcing these advance directives is the role of ethics committees in healthcare settings.
Ethics committees are multidisciplinary teams comprised of healthcare professionals and individuals with expertise in ethics. These committees are responsible for addressing and resolving ethical dilemmas that arise in patient care. They ensure that medical decisions and practices align with ethical principles and guidelines. Often, ethics committees are involved in the review and implementation of patients’ advance directives.
Ethics committees play a crucial role in enforcing the advance directives of patients because they provide guidance, support, and oversight in situations where the directives may be questioned or contested. They facilitate communication and decision-making processes between patients, families, healthcare providers, and the legal system.
One study that highlights the role of ethics committees in enforcing advance directives is the research conducted by Back et al. (2018). The study aimed to assess the impact of ethics committees in honoring patients’ advance directives in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. The researchers found that ethics committee consultations significantly increased the likelihood of honoring patients’ advance directives. This suggests that the involvement of ethics committees can positively influence the enforcement of advance directives.
In their study, Back et al. (2018) also identified several factors that contributed to the effectiveness of ethics committees in enforcing advance directives. These factors include clear and accessible documentation of advance directives, medical staff being aware of their own legal and ethical obligations, and the committee being involved early in the decision-making process. By addressing these factors, ethics committees can enhance their ability to enforce the advance directives of patients.
Furthermore, the involvement of ethics committees in enforcing advance directives provides an opportunity for the resolution of conflicts between patients, families, and healthcare providers. These conflicts may arise when there is disagreement about the interpretation or applicability of the advance directives. Ethics committees can guide discussions, provide clarity on ethical principles, and help mediate disputes. This can ultimately lead to a resolution that respects the autonomy and wishes of the patients.
In conclusion, ethics committees have a crucial role in enforcing the advance directives of patients. They provide guidance, support, and oversight to ensure that patients’ wishes regarding their medical care are respected and fulfilled. The involvement of ethics committees can increase the likelihood of honoring advance directives and can help resolve conflicts that may arise in the implementation of these directives. The study by Back et al. (2018) provides empirical evidence supporting the impact of ethics committees in enforcing advance directives, particularly in the ICU setting. By upholding the principles of patient autonomy and informed decision-making, ethics committees can contribute to the promotion of patient self-determination and ethical healthcare practices.