The Code of Ethics guide in nursing

            A military RN is ordered to force-feed a terrorist prisoner while they are undergoing interrogation. The prisoner is on a hunger strike protesting their capture and highlighting his cause. The nurse is to ensure the prisoner remains hydrated and fed so they can provide information and do not starve. The nurse is torn. On the one hand, the nurse has a strong loyalty to the military objective of ensuring public safety by uncovering terrorist plots and fear of reprisal if orders are disobeyed. Yet, the nurse is appalled at overriding a patient’s wishes by force-feeding him.   Male RN in Military Uniform Critical Thinking Questions Is this an ethical dilemma or a moral dilemma? What ethical principles are in contention? How? Are there any virtues at risk? Whose? Why? What justifies overriding an individual’s autonomy to make his own choices? How does the Code of Ethics guide the nurse in invoking conscientious objection? What lessons can be learned from this nurse’s dilemma?  
The overriding of an individual’s autonomy is justifiable only when necessary to protect public safety or prevent significant harm from being done both physically and psychologically. In this situation, force-feeding may be seen as necessary due to its potential contribution in uncovering terrorist plots that could cause greater harm if left unchecked. The Code of Ethics guides nurses by providing guidelines for making decisions such as invoking conscientious objection - something which should always be taken into account when faced with difficult choices regarding one's duties and obligations. Ultimately, this nurse’s dilemma teaches us about our responsibilities towards those under our care - even when we face difficulties in reconciling our various roles within broader contexts such as war or politics. It also reminds us of the importance of considering all options before taking action so that we can ensure any decisions made are done responsibly and ethically.

Sample Solution

This is an ethical dilemma since it involves a conflict between two moral principles; in this case, the nurse’s loyalty to their duty as a military officer and their obligations as a medical professional. The ethical principles in contention are autonomy versus beneficence; while the nurse has an obligation to respect the patient’s autonomy by respecting their decision to go on a hunger strike, they also have an obligation to uphold the duty of care towards them by ensuring they remain healthy. Both autonomy and beneficence rely on virtues such as respect for human rights and compassion; however, these can be compromised if not executed appropriately.

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