What is a significant ethical dilemma faced by nurses?

A significant ethical dilemma faced by nurses involves balancing patient autonomy with beneficence in treatment decisions. This scenario arises when a patient has the right to make their own healthcare choices, which is a fundamental principle of autonomy, but at the same time, healthcare providers must act in the patient's best interest, known as beneficence.

In practice, this can create tension when a patient's wishes may not align with what the healthcare team believes is best for their health. For example, a patient may refuse a life-saving treatment, and the nurse faces the challenging position of respecting this decision while also knowing the potential consequences of the patient’s choice. This conflict requires nurses to navigate complex ethical considerations, advocate for the patient’s well-being, and facilitate open communication to ensure that the patient’s values and goals are considered in their care.

The other choices touch on important aspects of healthcare but do not encapsulate the depth of ethical reasoning involved in the autonomy versus beneficence dilemma. Cost considerations and personal preferences may impact treatment decisions but are not centered on the ethical principles intrinsic to patient care like autonomy and beneficence are. Furthermore, following hospital policies without considering patient needs can lead to ethical issues, but it doesn't directly address the profound moral conflict inherent in the nurse's