British journal of perioperative nursing : the journal of the National Association of Theatre Nurses
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Nurses frequently have to make decisions which require moral judgements, influenced by the ethical standards expected of the profession. They have a duty of care, promoting good, and minimising harm, whilst acting in the patients' best interests. In complicated situations it is not uncommon to wonder whether further ethical consideration is pertinent before a decision or action is made.
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Review Case Reports
An ethical dilemma. Is it ever acceptable to lie to a patient?
Ethical decision-making, and the choice of whether or not to be truthful, is an important part of everybody's life. For nurses, decisions such as these are made every day and affect not just themselves, but also the lives of others. This article will examine the ethics of truth-telling from the point of view of a theatre nurse dealing with a seriously ill patient.
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The notion of'intelligence and humane choice' is addressed in this article. The only way nursing can be influential in the world of healthcare is questioned by looking at a commitment to learning, development and research. The article aims to challenge issues about nurse education and explore ways in which the nursing profession can move debates about the values underpinning the preparation of undergraduate nurses.
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This article explores the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, related to allogeneic blood transfusions. Paul Wade also describes how Witnesses contribute to healthcare planning through the completion of individual Advance Medical Directive/Release documents and by shared learning. The article addresses the reasons why Jehovah's Witnesses refuse allogeneic blood, and what resources are available.