Resolving Ethical Dilemmas - Essay Example

The area of genetics generally involves making informed decisions and working with patients such that they understand and treasure the risks, benefits, and nature of any genetic procedure. The dilemma I once faced in this area was when a newly wedded couple visited me with the intent of learning more about the genetic disorders of their newborn baby.  I was to carry out genetic testing on the newborn to identify any genetic disorders if any.  This could have resulted in psychological risk on the parent who could have turned out to be a carrier.

In terms of social risks, identifying their infant as a carrier of a particular genetic disorder could have resulted in either misunderstanding or misinterpretation among the couple which could have disintegrated to social discrimination (Betta, 2006). There exist a number of principles within the ANA Code of ethics but those relevant to my dilemma are Principle for nursing and documentation, the Principle for social networking, and principles of a collaborative relationship (Fowler & American Nurses Association 2008).

  In line with the principle of a collaborative relationship, I had to involve my seniors so that I could make a decision that the whole hospital was aware of and in the end ensure the couple received satisfactory results.  I also employed the principle for social networking, where I was able to communicate with other professionals in the nursing department, inquiring about how to handle the issue but ensuring the protection of my patients' identity, privacy, and confidentiality were maintained.

The principle for nursing and documentation helped me to provide clear and accurate documentation about the issue I was handling. Safe, quality, and findings based on evidence were availed to the couple to satisfy their curiosity (Benjamin & Curtis2010).  The outcome of the dilemma and resources within the clinical agency that aided in dealing with the dilemma. The outcome of the newborn screening genetic testing dilemma was that the newborn turned out to be a carrier of sickle cell anemia.

A condition inherited from one of the parents who a carrier.