Nurse Perspective: The Ethical Pressure and Evaluation of Unnecessary Treatments, Procedures, and Diagnostics

As a nurse, the primary role is to observe, assess, and report the medical status of patients to the supervising physicians. This article delves into the ethical pressures nurses face, particularly when it comes to suggesting unnecessary treatments, procedures, or diagnostics. Through various scenarios and insights, we examine the dynamics of this dilemma and explore the ethical and professional standards upheld by nursing practice.

The Role of the Nurse in Healthcare

Nurses, as healthcare professionals, play an integral role in the diagnostic and treatment process. Their responsibilities primarily revolve around observation, assessment, and reporting. While doctors make the final decisions regarding treatments, procedures, and diagnostics, it is the nurse's duty to ensure that the patient is adequately cared for and that every step taken is justified and necessary.

Understanding Ethical Pressure in Healthcare

One of the most challenging aspects of nursing is the ethical pressure to suggest treatments, procedures, or diagnostics that may not be necessary. This scenario arises in various contexts, ranging from pharmaceutical companies seeking to increase sales to hospital administrators pressuring staff for higher treatment rates. Despite the pressures, nurses are trained to adhere to ethical and legal standards, ensuring that the patient's best interests are always prioritized.

Case Studies and Examples

A common scenario in which ethical pressure is felt occurs when a nurse observes a patient's condition and feels that a particular diagnostic test or treatment is unnecessary. For instance, a nurse might report to a physician that 'I’m hearing decreased breath sounds in the lower part of Mr. Jones’ left lung.' The physician then decides whether to proceed with imaging or intervene. While the nurse is concerned about diagnostics that might not be performed, they are also mindful that if an order is placed, it should be followed.

In another scenario, a nurse may question whether a certain procedure is necessary for a patient. They might express concerns to the physician, ensuring that the rationale behind the decision is clearly understood. This interaction ensures that both the nurse and the physician are aligned in their approach to patient care, thereby maintaining the highest standards of ethical and professional practice.

Ethical Standards and Professional Integrity

Despite the ethical pressures, nurses are not merely passive observers. If a nurse feels that a particular treatment, procedure, or diagnostic is unnecessary, they have the ethical and legal obligation to voice their concerns. This can be done by discussing their observations and concerns with the physician, ensuring that both parties are aware of the potential risks and benefits of the proposed interventions. Nurses must always prioritize patient safety and well-being, and this often involves challenging or questioning clinical decisions when necessary.

The consequences of suggesting or agreeing to unnecessary treatments can be significant, both for the patient and the healthcare system as a whole. Patient harm, increased healthcare costs, and the loss of trust in the medical community can all result from such actions. Therefore, every nurse is responsible for maintaining the highest ethical standards and making informed decisions based on sound medical knowledge and patient needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ethical pressure faced by nurses in suggesting or agreeing to unnecessary treatments is a complex issue that requires a nuanced understanding of ethical and professional standards. While it is essential to maintain a collaborative and respectful relationship with physicians, nurses must always prioritize the best interests of the patient. By upholding ethical standards and maintaining professional integrity, nurses can ensure that they provide the highest quality care while avoiding unnecessary interventions that could lead to adverse outcomes.