A patient’s right to self-determination is part of their inherent human dignity. Provision 1 of the Code of Ethics for Nurses calls us to practice with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of every person. Individuals forfeit many of their rights when incarcerated. Is one of them self-determination? Consider this situation: The inmates in several…
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Correctional Nurse Practice Update: Code of Ethics: The Patient is Primary
While the first provision of the Code of Ethics for Nurses addresses the need for compassion and respect for all individuals, the second provision identifies the primary concern of nursing care – the patient. Consider this situation: Inmate Sorokin is in administrative segregation for fighting with an officer last night. During medication rounds he tells nurse Vargas that he needs…
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Correctional Nurse Practice Update: Code of Ethics: Respect for Human Dignity
Jennifer’s heart sank as she looked at the shift post assignments. She was scheduled to cover Ad Seg. Two days ago, when last she was assigned there, she endured a barrage of explicit language while moving down the catwalk with the office while she conducted medpass, did the ordered physical assessments and ensured that no one had an immediate health…
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