28.6k views
4 votes
A nurse on the oncology unit is caring for a client on hospice care. The client is weak and is resting. The client's daughter comes storming onto the unit and demands that the nurse do everything she can to treat her mother. This is an example of what type of values conflict?

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

The situation demonstrates a values conflict in healthcare between a hospice nurse and a terminally ill patient's daughter, who wants aggressive treatment. This scenario requires the application of care ethics, which focuses on understanding and balancing the differing values and perspectives of those involved in a compassionate manner, while also considering the criticisms of care ethics in resolving such conflicts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The conflict described between a hospice nurse and a client's daughter is an example of a values conflict. This is a situation where the professional understanding and ethics of hospice care, which focuses on comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment, clashes with the daughter's desire for assertive medical intervention. In the field of care ethics, this would necessitate a thoughtful discussion and understanding of all involved parties' perspectives to reach a compassionate and mutually acceptable decision, highlighting the importance of traits like compassion, kindness, and willingness to take responsibility. However, care ethics is not without its criticisms. It may lack clear resolution mechanisms in time-sensitive situations and might not be considered fair by all stakeholders, especially when deep-seated personal values or urgent decision-making is involved. Moreover, care ethicists emphasize instilling values of personal relationships, respect for individuals, and responsibility to rightly respond to moral situations within society. In the context of healthcare ethics, professionals are challenged to balance personal values with the need to provide patient-centered care that respects their wishes and cultural backgrounds. When addressing end-of-life care or disease prevention, healthcare providers must advocate for the best clinical practice while honoring the cultural values and personal preferences of the patients and their families.

User Ashish Goel
by
8.5k points