Unraveling ethical issues in palliative care.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the ethical issues inherent in palliative care and the essential role of nurses in addressing the ethical dimensions of professional practice.

DATA SOURCE

Review articles, research studies, and books related to ethical issues in palliative care.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses in all roles and practice settings confront numerous ethical concerns. Some of the most perplexing and troubling ethical issues arise within the context of palliative care. Being prepared to deal with these ethical issues can foster patient and family well-being and protect the integrity of the nurse.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Oncology nurses have a vital role in improving the quality of end-of-life care. Attention to the ethical dimension of palliative care is necessary to accomplishing this.