Professional Practice II: Analyzing Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare

This case study examines the ethical obligations of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in verifying patient consent, particularly in a busy surgical unit. The scenario involves Mr. Saara, a patient with limited English proficiency, who has not signed the consent form before surgery. Gina, the LPN, faces a dilemma when pressured by the OR staff to obtain a signature without ensuring informed consent. The analysis highlights the importance of ethical practice, as outlined in Standard 4, and adherence to CLPNBC Practice Standards related to consent. Gina's ethical obligations include providing competent, safe, and ethical care, regardless of the circumstances. Her options involve arranging for an interpreter, utilizing substitute decision-making, or requesting exemption from caring for the patient due to conflicting religious and moral beliefs. Reflecting on the situation reveals the potential legal consequences of proceeding without informed consent and the need for effective communication with family members. While Gina adheres to professional standards, the OR's actions demonstrate a lack of ethical practice and disregard for patient rights. Consulting with senior hospital authorities is recommended to address the incompetence and ensure proper consent procedures are followed.

Running Head: PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE II
Reflection Assignment 1
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

1PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE II
Answer 1
Consent refers to the condition when an individual voluntary agrees to the desires or
proposal of another individual. It functions as permission for a particular event to occur or an
agreement to perform a predetermined task.
Answer 2
Question of consent is imperative in medical loss. It helps the patients to take voluntary
choices for accepting or refusing the proposed treatment or intervention.
An LPN should inform all patients about the principles associated with the therapeutic
practice that will be delivered, and the possible adverse effects that might arise. It ensures best
interests of their patients.
Answer 3
The standard 4 that focuses on ethical practice holds true in this case study. This standard
promotes the fact that licensed practical nurse is should uphold, understand that promote all
ethical standards of nursing profession. The standard also states that nurses should demonstrate
honesty and integrity, while respecting and protecting the word diversity and uniqueness of each
client.
Answer 4
The CLPNBC Practice standard related to consent is relevant in this context. The
indicators which stress on the fact that an LPN should respect, recognise and promote rights of
their clients, to remain informed about health care services. Indicators that mention that LPNs

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should be able to meet the ethical and legal obligations, while obtaining consent hold true in this
case.
Answer 5
Her ethical obligations are related to the fact that she should provide competent safe and
ethical care to her client. She is expected to offer best care services, regardless of the
circumstances.
Answer 6
Her options include:
 Arranging for an interpreter, probably a close friend or family member, who is proficient
in English and will be able to understand the potential of the surgery and explain it to the
patient, thereby obtaining his consent.
 Using the approach of substitute decision making, where a guardian or person appointed
in writing by her client, will be able to take voluntary decisions, in relation to the medical
treatment.
 Asking the employer in advance, to exempt her from providing care to the patient, as lack
of informed consent is conflicting with her religious and moral beliefs.
Answer 7
a) I would reflect on the fact that failure to take the patient's informed consent before the
surgery might lead to legal consequences, if the surgery fails to act appropriately. It is

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essential to effectively communicate with his family members, to make them understand
the implications of the intervention and the need of obtaining consent.
b) Thorough analysis of the case study helps me understand that Gina adheres to the practice
and professional standards, required to be followed by an LPN. She is appropriate in her
nursing duties and demonstrates responsibility and honesty while caring for the patient.
However, the OR is not following the ethical standards of practice and demonstrates a
lack of interest in protecting the patients’ rights.
c) I would consult with the senior hospital authority to bring to their notice the
incompetence displayed by the patient, and would seek their opinion on taking the
consent from a close relative.