Describe a situation where you encountered an ethical dilemma in your nursing practice. How did you resolve it?

During my nursing practice, I encountered an ethical dilemma when a patient requested information about their partner's diagnosis without their partner's consent. It put me in a difficult situation as I had to balance patient autonomy and confidentiality. To resolve the dilemma, I explained the importance of confidentiality and the potential harm that could arise from sharing sensitive information without consent. I also offered to facilitate a conversation between the patient and their partner, encouraging open communication and mutual consent for sharing medical information. Ultimately, the patient understood the importance of respecting their partner's privacy and agreed to approach the situation differently.

In my nursing practice, I encountered an ethical dilemma when a patient requested information about their partner's diagnosis without their partner's consent. Upholding patient confidentiality while respecting the patient's autonomy was crucial in this situation. I took a collaborative approach by empathetically listening to the patient's concerns and explaining the ethical principles behind maintaining confidentiality. I offered alternative solutions, such as facilitating a conversation between the patient and their partner to obtain mutual consent for sharing medical information. This approach not only honored the patient's request for information but also prioritized the importance of privacy and trust. By involving the patient in the decision-making process, we reached a resolution that respected all parties involved.

The solid answer expands upon the basic answer by providing more specific details and demonstrating a deeper understanding of the ethical principles involved. The candidate acknowledges the importance of patient confidentiality and autonomy while offering alternative solutions and involving the patient in the decision-making process. However, the answer could still be improved by providing additional examples of ethical dilemmas encountered and resolutions implemented.

During my nursing practice, I encountered an ethical dilemma when a patient who was terminally ill expressed a desire to end their life. This posed a challenge as I had to navigate the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, and non-maleficence. To resolve the dilemma, I engaged in extensive discussions with the patient, explored their reasons for wanting to end their life, and provided emotional support. I also collaborated with the interdisciplinary team, including the palliative care specialist and ethicist, to ensure a comprehensive approach. Together, we developed a care plan that focused on addressing the patient's physical and emotional distress, enhancing their quality of life, and providing compassionate end-of-life care. By respecting the patient's autonomy while upholding ethical guidelines and prioritizing their well-being, we achieved a resolution that honored their wishes while ensuring the provision of holistic care.

The exceptional answer goes beyond the solid answer by describing a more complex and challenging ethical dilemma. The candidate demonstrates an in-depth understanding of ethical principles, such as autonomy, beneficence, and non-maleficence, and how they apply in end-of-life care. The candidate also highlights the collaborative approach taken, involving the interdisciplinary team to ensure a comprehensive care plan. The answer showcases the candidate's critical thinking, empathy, and commitment to providing holistic care. Adding additional examples of ethical dilemmas encountered and resolved would further enhance the answer.