A family is in crisis about the steps to take after a family member is

QUESTION

A family is in crisis about the steps to take after a family member is critically ill. When an ethics committee meets, who will be allowed to discuss the ethical dilemma? Select all that apply.

1. The client’s appointed advocate
2. The client’s family
3. Other nurses on the unit
4. The nurse assigned to the client
5. The care provider

ANSWER:

Answer: 1; 2; 4; 5

Rationale:
• The client’s appointed advocate: The client would be involved in the ethical discussion with the committee as well as he was able. If the client were not able to address the committee, an appointed advocate would be a suitable choice.
• The family: The family would absolutely be allowed to discuss with the committee.
• Other nurses on the unit: The other nurses on the unit would not be involved in the discussion, as this constitutes a HIPAA violation.
• The nurse assigned to the client: The nurse assigned to the client would be allowed to discuss the situation with the ethics committee.
• The care provider: The care provider would be allowed to discuss the dilemma with the ethics committee, as she has a major role in the decision process.