What is a nurse's ethical responsibility regarding end-of-life care?

A nurse's ethical responsibility regarding end-of-life care focuses on supporting the patient's wishes and providing comfort. This aligns with the principles of patient autonomy and the ethical obligation to respect and prioritize the preferences of patients in making informed decisions about their care.

In end-of-life situations, patients may have specific desires regarding treatment options, the interventions they wish to undergo, or their preferred environment for dying. By supporting these wishes, nurses uphold the patient's right to determine the course of their own healthcare, which is a fundamental ethical principle in nursing practice. Providing comfort, whether through pain management or emotional support, is also essential, as it enhances the quality of life during a profoundly sensitive time.

In contrast, insisting on aggressive treatment disregards the patient's wishes and may prolong suffering, prioritizing medical interventions over comfort. Prioritizing a nurse's personal beliefs over the patient's desires neglects the ethical importance of respecting patient autonomy and can lead to diminished trust in the nurse-patient relationship. Exclusively managing family requests can result in conflicts between family preferences and the patient's stated wishes, which may not align with the patient's needs or values. Thus, the ideal role of a nurse is to facilitate discussions about end-of-life care that honor the patient's choices while ensuring they receive compassionate support throughout