Ethical issues

This chapter explores some of the ethical theories and principles that can be used in practice. It examines the ethical theories of utilitarianism/consequentialism and deontology, rights, duty and obligation, in relation to delivering nursing care to children, young people and families with long‐term illness. In reading various texts, it can be observed that the relationship between the theories of teleology, consequentialism, utilitarianism and deontology and the principles of ethics can be confusing. Using past experience, act utilitarianism tries to predict possible outcomes for various courses of action. The chapter also explores the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non‐maleficence, justice and veracity and their application to practice. It further explores ethical dilemmas that can potentially occur in the care of children and young people with long‐term illness. The chapter discusses the use of ethical theories and principles as a possible framework to aid ethical decision‐making in practice