Care for an elderly adult woman in the medical/surgical unit
It is essential to honor the autonomy and wishes of the patient in these situations, but also acknowledge the value of the opinion provided by the internist. American Nurses Association states, “Nurses should be conscious of any ethical concerns that might arise during their practice and must work to learn about ethical principles and laws.” (2018). It is crucial to recognize the right of the patient not to be tested and respect her choice. The internist’s opinions are important, but it is equally important to inform the patient about the possible benefits and to ensure she is able to make an educated decision. The ANA code requires that nurses explain to patients the benefits and risks of each test, along with any possible consequences of declining them (2018). This is to help ensure they are fully informed. Cont…