Short answer questions. 150-250 words per each with references.

1. Many situations can raise ethical concerns, particularly in the face of disagreement and conflict between parties. However, not all situations of an ethical nature result in values conflict or constitute an ethical dilemma. Explain the characteristics of an ethical dilemma. How do they differ from other situations resulting in disagreement between conflicting preferences, needs, or expectations?

2. Consider the age-old tale of the father who stole a loaf of bread to feed his hungry family. Stealing is deemed wrong by our society and is punishable by law. Failing to provide for one's family is neglectful and fundamentally wrong. What would be the dilemma and the implications of such a crime on the individual, the family, the community, and society?

3. Every person approaches life with a certain perspective or worldview which could be identified with a specific ethical theory. Which ethical theoretical framework best describes your personal worldview? Support your response with examples.

4. Consider your personal needs, preferences, and biases. How might they conflict with the needs, preferences, and biases of your patients and their families? How can ethical principles be used to identify the most appropriate decision when conflict arises?

5. Uustal (1993) proposed a decision-making model that provides concrete steps in which to arrive at a morally acceptable solution when faced with an ethical dilemma. What type of an ethical dilemma have you encountered in the clinical setting? How can the decision-making model identified by Uustal be applied to this situation? Be specific when describing each of the nine steps.

6. How do a nurse's fundamental duties, as described by the Hippocratic Oath and Nightingale Pledge, influence a nurse's practice and decision making?