Question

Janine works as palliative care nurse at a regional health facility and relates the following conundrum. Janine describes looking after Jack who recently returned to the palliative care service after a further unexpected exacerbation of his respiratory lung cancer. Jack is rapidly deteriorating with little tolerance for any activity and cannot undertake any activities of daily living. Shirley, his wife is constantly at his side offering as much support as possible. Jack is highly dependant and has several HCP ‘s attending to him including physiotherapists, doctors, nurses, occupational therapist and other allied health workers including kitchen and cleaning staff. Jack received care for the past 6 days at which time he was in and out of consciousness and his lucid moments were characterised by confusion due to his severe low oxygen saturation rates. Whilst confused he tried to leave or get out of bed and required constant supervision, and at night restraint. Shirley was at his bed side frequently. Shirley in conversation with Janine, complements her and the team on the care that Jack has received, and reminisced with her and over the last few weeks they had spent together on a cruise to New Zealand and surrounding Islands. Janine realise that cruise was associated with a severe outbreak of COVID19. Janine asks Shirley, “why didn’t you let us know of your trip”? Shirley states that if she did, she might not have been allowed to see Jack. Subsequently, Shirley was not allowed to visit Jack, Jack died 2 days later. His pathology result was positive for COVID 19. Janine has explained the issue to all the staff associated with the care of Jack. The paramedics who cared for of Jack were also informed of his infective status prior to his death..

What ethical principle(s) would apply in this case study? Were some ethical principles breached in this scenario (if so which ones)?

Answer 1

Covid19 has been the biggest nightmare for all, Treating is covid19 patient is a huge task and involve an active participation of Healthcare professionals, Public,patient,Education,students everyone. With science alone it is nearly impossible to manage it, but the combined help from everyone by maintaining a rule of ethics and protocols is really crucial.

Thank you.