Nursing Ethics - A Case Study

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The Case This case revolves around Patient X, a generally amiable 83-year-old man in a rehabilitation ward, who is recovering from a stroke. At the time of this case, he appears alert and mentally competent. However, he is physically incapacitated: he is unable to move without a hoist and suffers from significant limb weakness. The nurses involved in the case are tasked with the job of administering a suppository, as written in the drug chart for Patient X. It is around 1pm in the afternoon, approaching the nurses’ lunch time. Patient X is eating yoghurt while watching TV when Nurse A knocks on the door and enters with Nurse B. “Hello Mr X,” says Nurse A, “How are you? You haven’t had a bowel movement in a while, have you?” “No,” replies Patient X. “Well we are going to give you a suppository to help get your bowels moving.” Patient X’s whole demeanour changes, his body stiffens and he appears crestfallen. “You girls pick the worst times, don’t you? I just want to enjoy my food.” Nurse A says “I’m sorry but this is for your own good. It’s not good to stay all blocked up.” At this point Patient X says nothing but tightens his grip on his tub of yoghurt, holding it with both his arms close against his chest, demonstrating a defensive response. Nurse A approaches and asks if Patient X could put his yoghurt down and let them roll him on his side for the procedure. The patient makes no response, maintaining his rigid posture and staring defiantly straight ahead. Nurse B approaches the bed and attempts to pry the yoghurt out of the patient’s hands. She is briefly met with resistance but he is too weak to maintain his grip. Both nurses roll Patient X onto his left side. His body is rigid and uncompliant, demonstrating a reluctance to cooperate. Nurse A performs the procedure quickly and proficiently. “There, there. It’s all done now,” says Nurse A before both nurses
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