The sources of ethical deliberation in neuroscience nursing: Three case scenarios

Neuroscience nurses may encounter ethical dilemmas during their work. To promote clarity over the decision-making process, it is essential that nurses have an insight into ethical principles that are applied in the treatment of patients. Clear definitions are also required so that there is a clear distinction between legitimate treatment cessation and euthanasia, thereby ensuring adherence to legal perspectives. This article explores these principles and applies them to clinical scenarios. Through this application, neuroscience nurses will gain an appreciation of how difficult decisions are made and the guiding values that are used to make them.