Question

Consider this situation: A teenager has been brought into the ED unconscious and with shallow breathing. The doctors and nurses stabilize the teen and transfer the teen to the ICU where she is put on a ventilator as she is unable to breathe on her own, she remains unconscious. A week later, there is no change, the teen remains on the vent, unconscious, and has no other signs of life other than diminished brain activity. You are in the teen's room and you are re-positioning her and doing passive range of motion exercises. The mother is in the room, she looks exhausted and has been crying. You have received report earlier and know the teen no longer has any brain activity and is being kept alive only by the ventilator. The mother very tentatively asks" Is my daughter dead? She hasn't moved or opened her eyes. I know they did a test on her about her brain activity but no one can tell me the results. Can you?" What do you do? What principle in the Code of Ethics did you rely on for your answer?  

Answer 1

I will tell her the truth because information that is provided regarding the patient’s health should be honest and accurate.

Ethics regarding information is that its our duty and they have trust.
Another value is the physical and psychological benefits of telling the truth.
The information should share to relative by using excellent communication skills.
Information should be shared in an empathetic and caring way.
It is our duty to respond appropriately to relative's reactions and give them time to ask questions.