Nursing Ethics: Analyzing an Ethical Dilemma in Clinical Practice

This report examines a nursing ethics case study involving an ethical dilemma faced by a nurse in a nursing home. The case centers on a 69-year-old, overweight resident, Mr. X, and the conflict between respecting his autonomy and ensuring his well-being. The report delves into the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and paternalism, analyzing how these principles apply to the situation where Mr. X's decision to walk despite his condition conflicted with the nurse's duty of care. The discussion explores the nurse's actions, the potential alternative approaches, and the implications of each ethical principle. The report concludes by emphasizing the importance of balancing patient autonomy with the responsibility to provide care, acknowledging the limitations of the nurse's approach, and suggesting improvements in managing similar situations. References are provided to support the analysis of the ethical dilemma.