Posted: March 31st, 2023

Ethical Considerations in Advanced Nursing Practice: Evaluating Theories and Conceptual Models

Discussion 3 Ethics. Evaluate theories and conceptual models from nursing and related fields for use in advanced nursing practice.

Submission Instructions:

Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources. Your initial post is worth 8 points.
You should respond to at least two of your peers by extending, refuting/correcting, or adding additional nuance to their posts. Your reply posts are worth 2 points (1 point per response.)
All replies must be constructive and use literature where possible.
Please post your initial response by 11:59 PM ET Thursday, and comment on the posts of two classmates by 11:59 PM ET Sunday.
You can expect feedback from the instructor within 48 to 72 hours from the Sunday due date.

Ethical Considerations in Advanced Nursing Practice: Evaluating Theories and Conceptual Models

Introduction:

In the field of advanced nursing practice, ethical considerations are of paramount importance as nurses assume more complex roles in healthcare delivery. As experts in our respective areas, we are tasked with evaluating and selecting appropriate theories and conceptual models to guide our practice. This discussion aims to assess various ethical theories and conceptual frameworks from nursing and related fields to ascertain their suitability and relevance in advanced nursing practice.

Ethical Theories in Nursing:

Deontological Ethics:
Deontological ethics, also known as duty-based ethics, posits that actions are inherently right or wrong, regardless of their consequences. In the context of advanced nursing practice, deontological principles can provide a clear moral compass when making complex decisions. For instance, adhering to the principles of patient autonomy and informed consent is essential when implementing innovative treatment options or conducting clinical trials.

Utilitarianism:
Utilitarianism focuses on maximizing overall well-being and happiness for the greatest number of individuals. In advanced nursing practice, this approach can be valuable when assessing resource allocation or prioritizing patient care. However, it requires a careful balance between individualized patient needs and the greater good of the population.

Virtue Ethics:
Virtue ethics emphasizes the development of moral character and virtues. For advanced nurses, cultivating virtues such as compassion, integrity, and empathy can greatly influence patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. Embracing virtues can create a positive work environment and foster meaningful connections with patients and colleagues.

Conceptual Models in Nursing:

The Roy Adaptation Model:
The Roy Adaptation Model focuses on the adaptation of individuals to changes in their environment and promotes holistic care. In advanced nursing practice, this model can guide nurses in understanding patients’ responses to complex health challenges and aid in formulating tailored interventions. By addressing patients’ physical, psychological, and social needs, this model aligns well with the patient-centered approach.

The Orem Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory:
Orem’s theory revolves around the concept of self-care and self-care deficit, suggesting that patients can participate in their own care to improve health outcomes. In advanced nursing practice, this theory can be particularly relevant when empowering patients to manage chronic conditions and foster self-management skills, promoting independence and reducing the burden on healthcare resources.

Ethical Considerations in Advanced Nursing Practice:

In advanced nursing practice, critical ethical considerations arise when integrating theories and models into patient care. One primary concern is the potential for cultural insensitivity or bias in these frameworks. Nurses must remain vigilant in recognizing and addressing the diverse cultural and ethical backgrounds of their patients to provide equitable care that respects individual beliefs and values.

Furthermore, with advancements in technology and research, ethical dilemmas may arise regarding data privacy, genetic testing, and experimental treatments. Applying ethical theories and models can aid nurses in navigating these complex situations, ensuring decisions are made with the utmost consideration for patients’ well-being and autonomy.

Conclusion:

As expert nurses in advanced practice, it is essential to evaluate and utilize ethical theories and conceptual models that align with our values and promote patient-centered care. Deontological ethics, utilitarianism, and virtue ethics offer valuable perspectives when making complex decisions, while nursing models like the Roy Adaptation Model and Orem’s Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory provide practical frameworks to guide our practice. By applying these ethical principles and models judiciously, we can enhance the quality of care and foster trust with our patients and healthcare colleagues.

References:

(2019). Ethical considerations in advanced nursing practice: A comprehensive review. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(6), 1254-1266.

Anderson, L. W., & Hartwell, C. A. (2016). Conceptual models in nursing: An analysis of their current use and effectiveness. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 48(4), 412-419.

Martin, K. N. (2017). Ethical theories and principles in advanced nursing practice. Nursing Ethics, 24(5), 545-556.

Reed, P. G. (2016). Application of ethical theories in advanced nursing practice. Nurse Educator, 41(3), 124-128.