Relational Ethics Theory
"requires that we focus on the
relationship as the significant and
central aspect of health care
ethics" (Burkhardt et al., 2018, p.
42)
Engagement
"A quality of a relationship in which there is striving for authenticity and connection" (Burkhardt et al., 2018, p.
42)
student did not ask for patient's desired outcomes of care
student did not ask for consent
Mutual Respect
"interactive respect for and attention to difference" (Burkhardt et al., 2018, p.
42)
Power differential
was forceful with patient
considered patient a task
Embodiment
"refers to the relationship in which not only is the person treated in a holistic manner, but there is also consideration of emotion and of subjective experiences" (Burkhardt et al., 2018, p.
42)
patient was distressed and uncomfortable from student's rough manner
Student was inconsiderate when I asked to be gentler
Environment
"the inevitable relationships that individuals engage in" (Burkhardt et al., 2018, p.
42)
Patient lacked a healthy environment
Decision-Making Process
Oberle & Raffin Buuchal
Decision-Making Model (2009)
Step 3: Selecting an
Ethical Action
Step 4: Engaging in
Ethical Action
Did not do right by the patient
was afraid to confront the student nurse
I did not want to cause conflict
student had more experience
Step 5: Reflecting on
and Reviewing the
Ethical Action
Student nurse was unethical
evidenced by CNA and CNO code of ethics
Step 2: Reflecting on and
Reviewing Potential Actions
ask the patient myself for their consent
tell my clinical teacher of the incident
spoken to the nursing student after the bed bath
should have continued to tell my partner that the patient was uncomfortable
Step 1: Assessing the
Ethics of the Situation
patient expected communication and respect
student wanted to rush the bed bath to save time
I wanted to complete bed bath professionally and make patient comfortable