Write a paper that addresses the following: APA style with 4-5 references that are less than 5 years old. • Explain the ethical and legal implications of disclosure and nondisclosure. Be sure to reference laws specific to • Describe what you would do as the advanced practice nurse in this scenario including whether or not you would disclose your error. Provide your rationale. • Explain the process of writing prescriptions including strategies to minimize medication errors Title page Intro Headings pertaining to paper Summary
Title: Ethical and Legal Implications of Disclosure and Nondisclosure in Healthcare
Introduction:
In the healthcare field, the disclosure and nondisclosure of medical errors and adverse events are complex issues that carry significant ethical and legal implications. As an advanced practice nurse (APN), one must navigate these challenging situations with the utmost care and consideration, ensuring that patient safety and ethical duties are upheld. This paper aims to explore the ethical and legal aspects of disclosure and nondisclosure, focusing on the responsibilities of APNs and strategies to minimize medication errors.
Ethical and Legal Implications of Disclosure and Nondisclosure:
When an error or adverse event occurs in healthcare, the question of whether to disclose the incident to the patient or family members arises. Discriminating between the moral obligation to be honest and the potential harm disclosure may cause requires a comprehensive understanding of the ethical and legal implications involved.
The ethical principle of beneficence implies acting in the best interests of the patient, which encompasses maintaining open communication and trust. By disclosing an error, healthcare professionals can demonstrate their commitment to patient welfare, as honesty promotes trust and allows for improved patient-provider relationships. Moreover, disclosure allows patients to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare and potentially prevents further harm.
On the other hand, non-disclosure may be considered in certain situations, particularly when the error is minor and unlikely to cause significant harm, or when disclosure would cause more harm than good to the patient. For example, if a medication error occurred but was noticed and resolved immediately without any adverse effects on the patient, non-disclosure may be chosen as the course of action. Non-disclosure may also be necessary when the patient explicitly requests not to be informed about potential errors.
Legally, healthcare professionals have a duty to provide information and maintain patient confidentiality. Various laws and regulations exist to protect patients’ rights, including informed consent, patient privacy, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These laws emphasize the importance of open and honest communication with patients while protecting their privacy and personal information. Failure to comply with these legal requirements can lead to professional liability and potential legal action.
Scenario and Advanced Practice Nurse Response:
To illustrate these ethical and legal implications, consider the following scenario: as an APN, you realize that you have written a prescription with the wrong dosage for a patient. The patient has already taken a few doses based on the incorrect prescription. In this situation, the APN must navigate the decision of whether to disclose the error to the patient and how to proceed.
As an APN, I would prioritize patient safety while considering the ethical and legal responsibilities at hand. The first step would involve immediately addressing the prescription error, correcting it, and taking measures to ensure the patient’s health and well-being. Then, I would thoroughly assess the potential harm caused by the error and the likelihood of adverse effects. If there is a high risk of harm or potential complications arising from the incorrect dosage, disclosure becomes crucial to ensure that the patient receives appropriate care and monitoring.
Additionally, I would consult with other healthcare professionals, such as a pharmacist or the attending physician, to confirm the actions taken and any necessary interventions. Collaboration in such situations helps to provide a comprehensive response and ensures that appropriate actions are taken promptly.
Rationale for Disclosure:
Choosing to disclose the error serves several justifications. First and foremost, it aligns with the ethical principle of beneficence, as it puts the patient’s best interests and safety first. By disclosing, the APN demonstrates honesty and a commitment to the patient’s well-being. Furthermore, disclosure fosters trust in the patient-provider relationship, allowing for improved communication and shared decision-making in future healthcare decisions.
From a legal perspective, disclosing the error complies with the legal requirements of informed consent and patient confidentiality. It upholds the patient’s right to be informed about their healthcare and any potential risks or complications. Additionally, disclosing the error can protect the APN from legal liability, as it demonstrates transparency and adherence to professional standards.
Therefore, given the potential harm associated with the incorrect dosage and the ethical and legal responsibilities involved, I would choose to disclose the error to the patient and provide them with all the necessary information and support to manage any potential adverse effects.