Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing: The Role of the Nurse and Perceptions of Autonomy

This study investigated decision making in ethical dilemmas and attitudes toward professional autonomy. It was based on Murphy's identification of three nurse-patient relationship models. The model identification was the result of Murphy's investigation of the levels of moral reasoning of nurse practitioners, from Kohlberg's theory of moral development. Autonomy is necessary for patient advocacy in Murphy's highest order model of nurse-patient relationship. 109 freshmen, 103 seniors, and 82 graduates (baccalaureate nursing) were examined for model selection, risk-taking, restrictions, and anxiety in the decision-making process in specific situations. Autonomy was measured independently. The most significant results indicated that freshmen were less likely to select the autonomous model of relationship, had lower attitudes toward professional nursing autonomy, and were less willing to take risks. Graduates were lower than either student group in their perceptions of restrictions and anxiety. The responses to each dilemma itself varied by situation in relation to the model preferred.