Ethical decision making.

Abstract

Members of the health care profession have a responsibility to identify and regulate their practice to protect consumers and assure the delivery of quality service. In this case study in which a patient wakes up during surgery, the nurse's code of ethics, standards of care, and ethical decision-making models provide guidance toward the resolution of this clinical dilemma. Such resolution requires sound nursing knowledge, knowledge of the facts of the situation, knowledge of the law, and application of critical thinking skills to facilitate positive outcomes for all parties involved.