Applying Ethical Frameworks in Nursing Practice

Applying Ethical Frameworks in Practice
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Introduction
It is pertinent for health practitioners to adhere to patient confidentiality, and at times people working in health care are faced with a moral dilemma on how to deal with confidentiality. At the same time, it is necessary to maintain balance when relaying information depending on the context (Butts & Rich, 2013). Even though, all health care workers ought to maintain confidentiality, there are at times when they are obligated to reveal patient information, and there are circumstances when they can breach confidentiality for the best interest of patients. Patients can sue healthcare practitioners for violating confidentiality through criminal, civil and disciplinary proceedings. Nurses typically require patient consent for breach of confidentiality, but they can violate trust if confidentiality would seriously jeopardize the welfare of the other person (Fry et al., 2011). This essay delves into the ethical dilemma facing nurses on confidentiality.
Ethical implication of breach of confidentiality
The case presented in the article show the moral dilemma that nurse is faced with upon realization that the underage girl has been engaging in sex and is suffering from cervical cancer. The nurse subsequently informs the parents about the situation, despite the promise that she would not reveal the details to any other party. One implication that is presented in the case is that people become less trustful and hence they may reveal less information in the future. Equally, the patients may shy away from getting medical attention because of breach of privacy (Butts & Rich, 2013). In any case, the patient entrusted confidential information to a healthy care provider, and hence there is a need to evaluate the risks and benefits of disclosing personal information.
Ethical theories or ethical principles
It is likely that Nurse Hathaway will be slapped with legal charges because of breach of confidentiality and trust. However, healthcare practitioners are protected under law, especially when this is done to protect the interest of patients and the public. In the context of the case involving Andrea, there is a justification for breach of trust. Andrea cannot seek medical attention without being accompanied by an adult and the diagnosis of cervical cancer also requires that the consenting adults are well informed about the possible causes and remedies to address the condition. Andrea’s parents need to be present when seeking medical attention for their daughter. Essentially, this supports the view that it is in the best interest of the minor.
Reasonable alternative the dilemma and relevant framework
HPV presents a great dange...